Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Alhambra |
| Generation | Alhambra II (7N, facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) 7 Seat |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | March, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 150-151 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 | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.2 kg/Hp, 89.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 148.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CZDA |
| Engine displacement | 1395 cm3 (85.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1680 kg (3703.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2420 kg (5335.19 lbs.) |
| Max load | 740 kg (1631.42 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 300 l (10.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2297 l (81.12 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 | 1557-1569 mm (61.3 – 61.77 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1605-1617 mm (63.19 – 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, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| 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; 225/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18 |
The Seat Alhambra II (7N), particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2015, represented Seat’s offering in the large MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment. Produced from 2015 through March 2020, this generation Alhambra was a collaborative effort with Volkswagen, sharing its platform and many components with the Volkswagen Sharan. The 1.4 TSI 150 horsepower, seven-seat configuration was a popular choice, aiming to balance fuel efficiency with practicality for families. It sat in the mid-range of the Alhambra lineup, offering a step up from the base engine while remaining more accessible than the higher-powered variants.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Alhambra variant is the CZDA engine code, a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of the Volkswagen Group’s EA211 engine family, known for its compact design and efficiency. It utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI) and a turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a balance of power and fuel economy. The engine’s 16-valve configuration (four valves per cylinder) contributes to its breathing efficiency. The 1.4 TSI engine produces 150 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1500-3500 rpm. This engine was typically paired with a six-speed manual transmission, although a seven-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) dual-clutch automatic was also available as an option. The six-speed manual transmission offered a good balance of responsiveness and fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 TSI engine in the Alhambra provided adequate performance for everyday driving, especially considering the vehicle’s size and weight. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9.4 seconds, which wasn’t particularly quick but sufficient for merging onto highways and overtaking. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power, but the engine could feel somewhat strained when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. The six-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, while the automatic option offered convenience in stop-and-go traffic. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TSI variants, the 1.4 TSI offered a more economical driving experience, but at the expense of outright performance. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine didn’t rev as freely as some competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 TSI 7-seat Alhambra typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric windows, central locking, a basic audio system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, such as Style or Reference, added features like climate control, parking sensors, a touchscreen infotainment system, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
Chassis & Braking
The Alhambra II utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. The steering was electrically assisted, offering a light and precise feel. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Seat Alhambra 1.4 TSI was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical MPV. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the 1.4 TSI engine could feel underpowered when the vehicle was fully loaded. Compared to other MPVs in its class, such as the Ford Galaxy and Citroën C4 Picasso, the Alhambra offered a good balance of features and value. The 1.4 TSI variant was particularly appealing to families looking for a spacious and economical vehicle for everyday use. Fuel economy figures of around 36.2 US mpg combined were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The 1.4 TSI engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit some issues related to carbon buildup on the intake valves, particularly if not regularly driven on longer journeys. The Alhambra II, as a whole, has proven to be a durable and practical vehicle. On the used car market, the 1.4 TSI variants are often sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and spacious MPV. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good due to the vehicle’s shared components with Volkswagen models. The Alhambra II remains a popular choice for families who need a versatile and reliable vehicle.
