The Seat Altea XL 1.2 TSI (105 hp) represents a specific configuration within the broader Altea XL range, produced from April 2010 to August 2015. Positioned as a more economical option within the lineup, it catered to buyers seeking a practical, spacious MPV with reasonable running costs. This variant was part of the facelifted Altea XL series (introduced in 2009), which brought styling updates and revised engine options. It utilized the Volkswagen Group’s A5 platform, also known as the PQ46, shared with models like the Volkswagen Golf Mk5 and Touran.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Altea |
| Generation | Altea XL (facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TSI (105 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 2010 |
| End of production | August, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.2 kg/Hp, 75.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm, 125.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 1550-4100 rpm (129.07 lb.-ft. @ 1550-4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CBZB |
| Engine displacement | 1197 cm3 (73.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1934 kg (4263.74 lbs.) |
| Max load | 544 kg (1199.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 532 l (18.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4469 mm (175.94 in.) |
| Width | 1768 mm (69.61 in.) |
| Height | 1581 mm (62.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2578 mm (101.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1527-1535 mm (60.12 – 60.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1503-1515 mm (59.17 – 59.65 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 91V; 225/45 R17 91W 225/40 R18 92Y |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 ET50; 7J x 17 ET54; 7.5J x 18 ET51 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Altea XL 1.2 TSI was the CBZB engine code, a 1.2-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine was a key component of Volkswagen Group’s efforts to downsize and improve fuel efficiency. It featured direct fuel injection (FSI) and a turbocharger with an intercooler, allowing it to produce 105 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 175 Nm (129 lb-ft) of torque between 1550 and 4100 rpm. The direct injection system precisely meters fuel into the combustion chamber, enhancing combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. The turbocharger spools up quickly, providing a relatively responsive feel despite the engine’s small displacement. The engine’s valvetrain utilized two valves per cylinder. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a good balance between fuel economy and driver control. While a DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) automatic was available on other Altea XL trims, it wasn’t typically paired with this specific 1.2 TSI engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 TSI engine in the Altea XL provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 11.6 seconds, and the top speed was 184 km/h (114 mph). The engine felt most comfortable in the mid-range, with the turbocharger providing a noticeable boost during overtaking maneuvers. However, it could feel strained when pushed hard, particularly when fully loaded. The 6-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 TSI or 2.0 TDI variants, the 1.2 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 1.2 TSI variant of the Altea XL typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, central locking, a basic audio system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Style’ or ‘Reference’, added features like alloy wheels, climate control, a more advanced audio system with MP3 compatibility, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and leather upholstery. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over outright luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Altea XL featured an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort rather than sporty handling, making it a pleasant vehicle for long journeys.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Seat Altea XL 1.2 TSI was generally well-received as a practical and economical MPV. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the 1.2 TSI engine could feel underpowered, especially when carrying a full load of passengers and luggage. Compared to other MPVs in its class, such as the Renault Scenic or Citroën C4 Picasso, the Altea XL offered a more driver-focused experience, but lacked some of the innovative features and interior design flair of its rivals. The 1.2 TSI variant was positioned as an entry-level option, appealing to budget-conscious buyers who prioritized fuel economy and practicality over performance.
Legacy
The 1.2 TSI engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit some issues related to timing chain wear, particularly in earlier iterations. Regular oil changes and preventative maintenance are crucial to ensure its longevity. The Altea XL itself, while no longer in production, remains a relatively affordable and practical used car option. The 1.2 TSI variant offers good fuel economy and reasonable running costs, making it a suitable choice for families or individuals seeking a spacious and economical MPV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential timing chain issues and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained.
