SEAT Alhambra review (2010-2020)
Named after a fortress in Spain, the SEAT Alhambra is an MPV that lays its cards on the table straight away. It’s big in every respect and many aspects of it are beautiful, too. If you want to find out which ones in particular, then all you have to do is read on. Read our full SEAT Alhambra review below.
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Pros
- Sliding rear doors
- Plenty of passenger space
- Economical engine options
Cons
- Feels its size to drive
- Small-ish boot with all seats up
Interior
Our rating: 6/10
Unlike some seven-seaters, where the third row of seats are really only big enough for children, this is definitely not the case in the SEAT Alhambra.
The interior is properly huge, with plenty of space for everyone.
Driving position
The driver sits up high with a fantastic view of the road, as well as great visibility all-round. The firm and comfortable driving seat is almost infinitely adjustable to get it in the perfect position.
Tech and features
The instruments are laid out clearly and logically and higher-spec models also come with SEAT's 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, which is functional rather than outstanding.
Performance
Our rating: 6/10
Handling and ride comfort
This might be a car that looks distinctly van-like but the driving experience is definitely car-like.
It seems to have a pretty low centre of gravity, so there’s none of the rolling around like a cross-Channel ferry in a gale that you might expect, even in the sharpest corners.
The steering’s very precise, although the rather hard suspension can send a judder through the cabin if you hit some uneven road surfaces.
The Alhambra is a big, wide car so squeezing it into tight parking spaces can be a little tricky.
Practicality
Our rating: 9/10
Boot space
Surprise, surprise! There are acres of storage space in the Alhambra.
Even with all seats in operation, there’s room in the boot for around five bags-for-life packed with groceries – very handy if there is a seven-strong tribe to feed.
Start folding the seats down and you’ll enjoy some pretty serious space. With them all down it could be time to go into the furniture removal business.
Some models even have a front passenger seat that folds down flat providing a very long space indeed.
Storage solutions
The car’s huge cabin also has lots of cubby holes and storage compartments for the sort of clutter that needs a home when you’re on the move.
Running costs
Our rating: 8/10
Fuel economy
There are a range of petrol and diesel engines to choose from.
If you’re planning to drive fully loaded the engine that combines the power you’ll need with reasonable economy is the 2.0-litre diesel.
This can give you up to 44mpg on average, not bad for a heavy car like the Alhambra.
Reliability
Because many of the parts are shared with the Volkswagen Sharan you can be reasonably confident that they won’t fail on you.
The verdict
Interior
6/10
Performance
6/10
Practicality
9/10
Running costs
8/10
If you’re on the lookout for a genuine seven-seater on a budget, then the Alhambra could well be the car for you.
It might not have the VW badge but it’s a Sharan in all but name with all the quality and reliability that suggests.
It won't be winning any awards for the way it drives, but it proves that you shouldn't have to sacrifice comfort and a few modern touches when shopping for an insanely practical people carrier.
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