The Seat Altea XL 1.2 TSI Ecomotive Start/Stop, produced from April 2010 to August 2015, represents a fuel-efficient variant within the broader Altea XL (facelifted 2009) range. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range option, it aimed to provide a balance of practicality, reasonable performance, and low running costs for European buyers. The Altea XL itself is a compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) based on the Volkswagen Group’s PQ46 platform, also known as the A3 platform, shared with models like the Volkswagen Golf Mk5 and Audi A3. This particular 1.2 TSI Ecomotive model was specifically engineered to meet increasingly stringent European emissions standards and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Altea |
| Generation | Altea XL (facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TSI (105 Hp) Ecomotive start/stop |
| 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) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 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) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 132 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13 kg/Hp, 77.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm, 128.7 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 | 1360 kg (2998.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 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 | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1517 mm (59.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Altea XL 1.2 TSI Ecomotive is the CBZB engine code, a 1.2-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Volkswagen Group’s TSI (Turbocharged Stratified Injection) family, known for its combination of direct fuel injection and turbocharging to deliver improved power and efficiency. The direct injection system, utilizing piezo injectors, allows for precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides a boost in power output, compensating for the relatively small displacement. The 1.2 TSI engine produces 105 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 175 Nm (129 lb-ft) of torque between 1550 and 4100 rpm. This variant was exclusively offered with a six-speed manual transmission, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 TSI Ecomotive, with its 105 hp and six-speed manual gearbox, offered a respectable, though not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 10.7 seconds, and top speed was around 114 mph. The engine’s torque delivery was relatively flat, providing adequate pulling power for everyday driving situations. The six-speed transmission helped to keep engine speeds down at highway speeds, contributing to improved fuel economy. Compared to higher-output versions of the Altea XL, such as those equipped with the 1.4 TSI or 2.0 TDI engines, the 1.2 TSI felt noticeably less powerful, particularly when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. However, the lighter engine weight contributed to slightly more agile handling. The gear ratios were tuned for efficiency, meaning the engine didn’t feel particularly responsive when needing a quick burst of acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Altea XL 1.2 TSI Ecomotive typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, central locking, a basic audio system with MP3 compatibility, and ABS brakes. Safety features such as driver and passenger airbags were standard. The “Ecomotive” designation also included specific aerodynamic enhancements and low rolling resistance tires to further improve fuel efficiency. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, rear parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, typical of Volkswagen Group interiors of the period.
Chassis & Braking
The Altea XL utilized 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. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Seat Altea XL 1.2 TSI Ecomotive was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient MPV. Its low CO2 emissions and competitive fuel economy figures were particularly praised. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered, especially when carrying a full load of passengers and luggage. Compared to the 1.4 TSI variant, the 1.2 TSI offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. The 2.0 TDI diesel version provided superior torque and fuel economy but came with a higher purchase price and potential diesel particulate filter (DPF) maintenance costs. The Altea XL competed with other compact MPVs such as the Renault Scenic, Citroën C4 Picasso, and Opel/Vauxhall Zafira.
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 for ensuring the longevity of this powertrain. The Altea XL, as a whole, has proven to be a durable and practical vehicle, and well-maintained examples continue to be found on the used car market. The 1.2 TSI Ecomotive variant remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and affordable MPV, though potential buyers should be aware of the potential timing chain issue and ensure a thorough inspection before purchase.
