The Seat Alhambra II (7N) 1.4 TSI 150 hp Ecomotive with the DSG dual-clutch transmission represents a significant iteration in Seat’s minivan offering. Produced from May 2011 to 2015, this variant occupied a middle ground within the Alhambra lineup, balancing fuel efficiency with respectable performance. It was part of the second generation Alhambra (7N), a vehicle developed in collaboration with Volkswagen and sharing its platform – the PQ46 – with the Volkswagen Sharan and Skoda Octavia. The Alhambra, in general, aimed to provide a spacious and practical family vehicle, and the 1.4 TSI Ecomotive trim was specifically geared towards buyers prioritizing lower running costs without sacrificing too much in terms of driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Alhambra |
| Generation | Alhambra II (7N) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) Ecomotive DSG |
| Start of production | May, 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 176 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 197 km/h (122.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 86.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 137.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CAVA, CNWB, CTHA |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharging and Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1742 kg (3840.45 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2290 kg (5048.59 lbs.) |
| Max load | 548 kg (1208.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 809 l (28.57 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2430 l (85.81 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4854 mm (191.1 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Height | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2919 mm (114.92 in.) |
| Front track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 215/60 R16; 225/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The Seat Alhambra II, launched in 2010, represented a significant step forward for the Spanish automaker in the MPV segment. Built upon the Volkswagen Group’s PQ46 platform, it shared many components with the Volkswagen Sharan and Skoda Octavia, benefiting from economies of scale and proven engineering. The 1.4 TSI 150 hp Ecomotive variant, introduced in 2011, was positioned as a fuel-efficient option for families needing space and versatility. The “Ecomotive” designation signified a focus on reducing emissions and improving fuel economy through various technologies. This trim level aimed to attract buyers who wanted a practical vehicle without the higher costs associated with more powerful engines.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Alhambra 1.4 TSI Ecomotive lies the CAVA, CNWB, or CTHA engine code, a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI) and a supercharger/turbocharger combination – a unique setup designed to provide both low-end torque and high-end power. The supercharger provides instant boost at lower RPMs, eliminating turbo lag, while the turbocharger takes over at higher speeds for sustained power delivery. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4000 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. Paired with this engine is a 6-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) dual-clutch automatic transmission. The DSG offers quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel efficiency. The transmission’s programming is tuned for economy in the Ecomotive variant, prioritizing higher gears at cruising speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 TSI 150 hp engine, coupled with the DSG transmission, provides adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 9.4 seconds, and the top speed is 197 km/h (122.41 mph). While not a particularly sporty vehicle, the Alhambra 1.4 TSI offers sufficient power for overtaking and highway cruising. The DSG transmission contributes to a smooth driving experience, and the supercharger/turbocharger combination minimizes turbo lag. Compared to the higher-output 2.0 TDI diesel variants, the 1.4 TSI feels less powerful, especially when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. However, it offers a more refined and quieter driving experience than the diesel. The gear ratios in the DSG are optimized for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine sometimes feels strained when climbing hills or accelerating quickly with a full load.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Alhambra 1.4 TSI Ecomotive typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Higher trim levels offered features such as alloy wheels, parking sensors, a touchscreen infotainment system, and climate control. The Ecomotive trim often included specific aerodynamic enhancements to improve fuel efficiency, such as a lower ride height and optimized underbody panels. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control.
Chassis & Braking
The Alhambra II utilizes an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not particularly sporty. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension is tuned for comfort and stability, prioritizing a smooth ride over sharp handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll. The weight distribution is relatively balanced, contributing to predictable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Seat Alhambra 1.4 TSI Ecomotive was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient MPV. It offered a good balance between space, comfort, and running costs. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when the vehicle was fully loaded. Compared to the 2.0 TDI diesel variants, the 1.4 TSI offered lower emissions and a quieter driving experience, but at the expense of performance and fuel economy. The 2.0 TDI was the more popular choice for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and towing capacity. The Alhambra, in general, was often seen as a more affordable alternative to the Volkswagen Sharan, offering similar features and practicality.
Legacy
The 1.4 TSI engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit some issues with carbon buildup on the intake valves, particularly if not regularly driven on longer journeys. The DSG transmission, while sophisticated, requires regular maintenance (fluid changes) to ensure longevity. Today, the Alhambra 1.4 TSI Ecomotive can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. It remains a practical and spacious family vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with the engine and transmission. Its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride continue to make it an appealing option for those seeking a versatile MPV.
