6 used SEAT Alhambra cars for sale

The very first SEAT Alhambra took to the roads back in 1996, providing an alternative to MPVs produced by the likes of Ford and Volkswagen. This first-generation iteration would remain in production until 2000, when a major facelift meant the Alhambra became altogether sleeker and smarter in appearance.

The Mk2 SEAT Alhambra rolled off the production line in 2010 and continued to be manufactured until 2020. Sharing its platform and many components with the Volkswagen Sharan, the Alhambra distinguished itself with a more budget-friendly price tag and arguably more appealing aesthetics. Its appeal was acknowledged with a slew of accolades including the What Car? ‘Best MPV on the Market’ in 2011, 2012 and 2013.

Although it faced competition from other seven-seaters like the Ford Galaxy and Citroën C4 SpaceTourer, the Alhambra established a presence for itself as a practical and reliable MPV. Production ceased in 2020, making way for SEAT to focus on SUVs such as the Tarraco.

What makes the Alhambra such an ideal solution for motorists is the fact that this is a genuine seven-seater. Unlike many of its competitors, it provides adult-friendly seating in the third row and a functional boot space that could rival a small hatchback. It’s available with a selection of petrol and diesel engines and three trim levels: SE, SE L and Xcellence .

SEAT Alhambra updates and facelifts

The first-generation Alhambra was produced by SEAT from 1996–2010, undergoing a major update at the turn of the century. For the second-generation model, a significant facelift occurred in 2015, including an updated infotainment system and enhanced safety features. While the base models were already well equipped, opting for higher trims added electric sliding doors and more advanced technology.

Practicality and style of the car

When it comes to practicality, the SEAT Alhambra is a standout in the full-sized MPV segment. With dimensions measuring 4,854mm in length and 2,081mm in width, it has a spacious and airy cabin. When all seven seats are in place, the boot provides 267 cubic litres of space, enough to accommodate your everyday shopping and travel demands. This is nearly as much space as you'd find in a SEAT Ibiza (355 litres) making it practical for day-to-day use.

If you require more room, the Alhambra offers easy-to-use folding mechanisms for the rear seats. A simple pull of a lever allows the second and third rows to fold completely flat, expanding the boot space significantly. With the third row folded, capacity increases to an impressive 809 litres; fold down the second row too and you're looking at a cavernous 2,297 cubic litres of space.

Added versatility comes courtesy of an optional folding front passenger seat, meaning the Alhambra can carry items of up to 2.95m in length.

The SEAT Alhambra has a towing capacity of 750kg unbraked and up to 2200kg braked, which is plenty for towing a caravan or another car.

Running costs

The SEAT Alhambra is a cost-effective choice for families thanks to its reasonable running costs. When it comes to Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), cars registered from 1 April 2017 to 31 March 2020 are subject to a £180 annual tax. Most variants registered on or before 31 March 2017 are taxed at £200–240 per year.

Insurance is another area where the Alhambra is affordable. The vehicle falls into insurance groups 18–23 out of 50 for most models. A small selection of variants sit in groups 24–25. As such premiums are generally lower cost than those of the Ford Galaxy, which occupies groups 17–31.

How a used SEAT Alhambra drives

When it comes to engine options, the SEAT Alhambra offers a variety of choices to suit different driving needs. The 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine, for instance, is an excellent pick for city driving, producing 147bhp and 250Nm of torque and achieving 0-62mph in as little as 9.9 seconds. It delivers respectable efficiency too, providing up to 42.2mpg on the combined cycle.

For those that often drive on the motorway or need to drive with heavy loads, the 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine is ideal. The 148bhp option can reach 62mph from a standstill in 10.2 seconds and returns a combined fuel economy of 55.4mpg. For more power, choose the 174bhp unit, which stands out for its flexibility and power, achieving a 0-62mph time of just 9.3 seconds. The option maintains good efficiency too, returning up to 47.9mpg on the combined cycle. Both engines are available with manual or DSG automatic transmission.

Engines and official MPG

Please refer to the table below for a comprehensive list of engines and their official MPG figures.

2010 - 2020

Engine	Official NEDC MPG	Official WLTP MPG
1.4 TSI	39.2–42.2 mpg	-
1.4 TSI 150	42.2 mpg	-
1.4 TSI DSG	37.2–42.2 mpg	-
2.0 TDI 115 Ecomotive	50.4 mpg	-
2.0 TDI 140 DSG	49.6 mpg	-
2.0 TDI 140 Ecomotive	50.4 mpg	-
2.0 TDI 150 DSG	53.3–54.3 mpg	-
2.0 TDI 150 Ecomotive	54.3–55.4 mpg	-
2.0 TDI 170	48.7 mpg	-
2.0 TDI 170 DSG	47.9 mpg	-
2.0 TDI 177	47.1 mpg	-
2.0 TDI 177 DSG	47.9 mpg	40.4 mpg
2.0 TDI 184	53.3 mpg	-
2.0 TDI 184 DSG	53.3 mpg	-

Features you can expect to find in a SEAT Alhambra

Interior

The SEAT Alhambra's interior is designed with both practicality and comfort in mind, making it an ideal choice for families and groups. One of the standout features is its sliding rear doors, which are electrically operated in higher trim levels.

The Alhambra also offers seven adult-friendly seats, a rarity in the MPV segment. Unlike some competitors that offer cramped third-row seats, the Alhambra ensures that even fully grown adults can sit comfortably in the back. The middle row features three individual seats that can be easily adjusted – each can slide back and forth and recline independently – providing ample legroom. There’s also space for three child seats to be positioned side by side.

The cabin's build quality is robust and designed to withstand the rigours of family life, constructed with durability in mind. Higher-spec models elevate the interior ambience with quality cloth seats and subtle red lighting, offering a more premium feel. Electrically adjustable front seating in these models also ensures that drivers of all heights can easily find their optimal driving position.

Technology

The SEAT Alhambra offers a range of features designed to enhance both convenience and entertainment. The car comes standard with a 6.5-inch colour touchscreen media system, which controls an eight-speaker audio system featuring a DAB radio, MP3-compatible CD player with USB, and Bluetooth connectivity. The system also has voice recognition for hands-free commands. Steering wheel controls for audio are also standard across all trims, adding an extra layer of convenience.

In 2016, SEAT made significant updates to the Alhambra's infotainment system. The media system was replaced, and later models support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These features are particularly appealing for families, as they allow seamless integration of smartphones for on-the-go communications and media streaming.

If you opt for the mid-range SE L model, you'll benefit from additional technological features that make life easier still. These include electric sliding rear doors, an electric tailgate, and a rear-view camera. The SE L also comes with heated and 12-way electrically adjustable leather front seats. Step up to the Xcellence model and you can expect even more, with an electric panoramic sunroof and keyless entry and go.

Safety

The SEAT Alhambra initially received a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating when it was tested in 2010, boasting an impressive 96% rating for adult occupant safety and 80% for child occupants. However, it's worth noting that the rating was revised to four stars in 2019 due to more stringent testing criteria. Despite this, the Alhambra remains a secure choice, with adult occupant safety still standing at a highly commendable 89% and child occupant safety at 78%. For those with young children, ISOFIX mounting points come standard on all three middle seats.

When it comes to standard safety features, the Alhambra is well-equipped. All models come with seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. Additionally, a tyre-pressure monitoring system and a hill hold feature are standard across all trim levels. This latter feature prevents the car from rolling backwards when you pull away on a slope.

The Alhambra also incorporates some advanced safety technologies, with a blind-spot recognition system added in the 2016 facelift. Optional safety features like lane assist and traffic sign recognition can also be found throughout the range of used SEAT Alhambra models that are available.

Trims available on a SEAT Alhambra

SEAT Alhambra SE

The entry-level SE trim comes equipped with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes satellite navigation and Bluetooth connectivity. Additional features include parking sensors, three-zone climate control, and cruise control. A touch of elegance is added with privacy glass, chrome exterior trim, and folding door mirrors. For convenience, there are automatic wipers and headlights, aircraft-style fold-down tables, and a 230-volt socket.

SEAT Alhambra SE L

Opt for the SE L trim and you’ll find electric sliding rear doors and an electric tailgate, making it easier to manage loading and unloading. There’s also a rear-view camera and heated front seats for added comfort. Entertainment is upgraded with a DAB digital radio, and the seating experience is elevated with 12-way electrically adjustable leather seats.

SEAT Alhambra Xcellence

The top-of-the-range Xcellence trim takes luxury and convenience to the next level. It includes all the features of the SE L trim and adds a panoramic sunroof, providing a more open and airy cabin experience. Keyless entry and go offer an extra layer of convenience too.