Used Seat Alhambra MPV 1996 - 2011 review

What's the used SEAT Alhambra like?

The Seat Alhambra was forged from the same DNA as the Ford Galaxy and Volkswagen Sharan, and given only the mildest dose of Seat corporate medicine.

That means it's a hugely capable MPV that drives more like a family hatchback, with a comfortable ride and taut handling (but not quite as sharp as the Galaxy's). Every engine is refined, and the cabin remains hushed, even at motorway speeds.

Overview

For the money, few big MPVs are as versatile or as enjoyable to drive and own as the Seat Alhambra

Pros

• A well-built cabin, versatile seating
• tidy handling and good visibility

Cons

• Limited luggage space and limited availability

Used cars available now

In partnership with

SEAT Alhambra

2.0 TDI Ecomotive 5dr

£1,350

SEAT Alhambra

2.0 TDI S 5dr

£1,695

SEAT Alhambra

2.0 TDI Reference 5dr

£1,995

SEAT Alhambra

2.0 TDI Ecomotive 5dr

£2,995

SEAT Alhambra

1.9 TDI Stylance 5dr

£5,495

See all available cars

All shapes of driver should be able to get comfy behind the wheel, and stay comfortable over long distances. On top of that, the layout of controls is intuitive, and all-round visibility is good.

Talking of seats, most Alhambras are fitted with seven. The 2-3-2 layout allows for the five rearmost to be slid backwards or forwards - to create more legroom or boot space, as necessary - folded or removed (a heavy and fiddly job). With all seven in use, you won't be able to carry much more than a single suitcase, so pack light.

Our recommendations

Which used SEAT Alhambra should I buy?

The diesels are the ones to get. There have been a few since the Alhambra's 1996 launch - the VW-supplied 1.9 TDI turbodiesel comes in various flavours from 90-130bhp - but our pick is the 110 or 115bhp version.

The smaller petrols are cheaper, but not so widely available. Of these, the 113bhp 2.0 can feel weedy, so the 150bhp turbocharged 1.8 T is our choice. There's also a stonking 201bhp 2.8 V6, with lower, firmer suspension and four-wheel drive, but it's expensive to run, so best avoided.

A major face-lift happened in 2000, when all models became seven-seaters as standard. They also got more kit, a slightly more modern look outside and an updated cabin.

From the outset, even basic spec (S on early cars, Reference on later ones) meant air-con, a CD player, electric front windows and a good level of safety equipment. Stylance (SE on early cars) is the more upmarket choice.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here