The Seat Alhambra II (7N) 1.4 TSI 150 hp Ecomotive with a 7-speed 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. The 7N generation Alhambra, co-developed with Volkswagen (sharing its platform with the VW Sharan), aimed to provide a spacious and practical family vehicle with a more dynamic driving experience than its predecessor. This particular engine and transmission combination was targeted at buyers seeking a blend of economy and convenience, avoiding the higher costs of the more powerful engines and the perceived complexity of a traditional automatic transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Alhambra |
| Generation | Alhambra II (7N) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) Ecomotive DSG 7 Seat |
| Start of production | May, 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| 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 | 11.9 kg/Hp, 83.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm, 134.1 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 | 1790 kg (3946.27 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Max load | 710 kg (1565.28 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 267 l (9.43 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1339 l (47.29 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| 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 | 1569 mm (61.77 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1617 mm (63.66 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Alhambra variant is the 1.4 TSI (Twin Stratified Injection) engine, specifically utilizing the CAVA, CNWB, or CTHA engine codes depending on the specific production year and market. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, boasting both a turbocharger and a supercharger – a relatively uncommon setup designed to eliminate turbo lag and provide strong low-end torque. The supercharger provides boost at lower engine speeds, seamlessly handing over to the turbocharger as the engine gains RPM. Direct fuel injection further enhances efficiency and power output. The engine produces 150 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4000 rpm. This power is then channeled through a 7-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) dual-clutch transmission, offering quick and smooth gear changes. The DSG transmission is known for its efficiency and responsiveness compared to traditional torque converter automatics.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 TSI with the DSG transmission delivers a surprisingly sprightly driving experience for a large minivan. While not offering the outright acceleration of the higher-powered TDI or larger petrol engines available in the Alhambra range, it provides adequate performance for everyday driving and highway cruising. The DSG transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in responsive acceleration. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between fuel economy and usability. Compared to the 6-speed manual version of the same engine, the DSG offers smoother shifts and reduces driver fatigue, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. However, some drivers may prefer the more direct feel and control of a manual gearbox. The Alhambra’s weight does impact performance; 0-60 mph takes around 9.4 seconds, and top speed is 197 km/h (122.41 mph).
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 TSI Ecomotive DSG typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included features like air conditioning, electric windows, central locking, a basic audio system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, often denoted by “Style” or “Sport” packages, added features such as climate control, parking sensors, a touchscreen infotainment system, and upgraded interior upholstery. Interior trim generally featured cloth seats, although leather options were available. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over outright luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Alhambra II utilizes an independent suspension setup on both the front and rear axles. The front employs a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear features an independent coil spring setup. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance, offering a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.4 TSI Ecomotive DSG variant of the Alhambra was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and efficient family vehicle. It offered a good balance between performance, fuel economy, and price. Compared to the diesel-powered TDI models, the 1.4 TSI was quieter and smoother, but lacked the TDI’s superior fuel economy and low-end torque. Against the larger petrol engines, it offered better fuel efficiency but less outright power. The DSG transmission was praised for its responsiveness and smoothness, although some concerns were raised about its long-term reliability and potential maintenance costs.
Legacy
The 1.4 TSI engine, in various iterations, proved to be a relatively reliable unit, although early versions were known to experience some issues with timing chain tensioners. The DSG transmission, while generally robust, requires regular servicing (fluid changes) to ensure longevity. Today, used examples of the Alhambra II 1.4 TSI Ecomotive DSG represent a relatively affordable and spacious family transport option. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good, given the shared platform with the Volkswagen Sharan. The combination of a turbocharged engine, a dual-clutch transmission, and a practical MPV body style continues to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile and efficient vehicle.
