The first SEAT to be completely developed within the Audi Brand Group since its establishment in 2002, the Seat Alta was the prototype for a new generation of exceptional cars stamped with the traditional SEAT hallmark of excellence, and continuing the theme of elegant and innovative style, precision handling and maintaining a uniquely sporting flavour, which marks it out as providing the role of much more than the usual family-sized transport.
SEAT Altea: More Than Just a Fantastic Family Car
Although created primarily as the ultimate family car, in order to provide additional space and the maximum of practical functionality, the innovatively designed Altea features a bold instantly identifiable radiator grille, bonnet and headlamp design, with the SEAT Dynamic Line exuberantly visible from the side. The individualistic profile of the Altea is further defined by the prominent front wheel arch and graceful lines that connect to the area above the doors and the rear wheel, giving all the identity marks so characteristic of SEAT’s new generation of fine production models, and also featuring many of the newest technology additions, including the 2.0 FSI direct injection petrol engine and dual-clutch DSG gearbox, as well as a completely newly designed front suspension and connective multi-link rear axle, new power-assisted electro-mechanical power steering, customised climate control, and cleverly designed wiper blades that are concealed when at rest within the windscreen.
SEAT Altea Engines Options
The Altea also surpasses in engine choice, utilising the very latest generation of petrol and diesel engines, all delivering over 100PS. The petrol range comprises the very effective 150PS (110 kW) 2.0 FSI and a superb 102PS (75 kW) 1.6, while diesel versions include a 140PS (103 kW) 2.0 TDI, together with a 105PS (77 kW) 1.9 TDI. The most powerful engines are the two-litre FSI and TDI, which are twin standards to a very effective six-speed manual gearbox. The FSI is also available with a uniquely engineered six-speed Tiptronic transmission, whereas the six-speed DSG transmission is a very desirable option on the 2.0 TDI model. As well as offering a range of four engines, the Altea is also available in five distinctive specifications, which include Essence, Reference and Reference Sport, and Stylance and Sport.
SEAT Altea Safety and Security
As would be expected from a vehicle specialising as a family car, the most comprehensive active safety systems have been incorporated in the Altea, including ABS, TCS and, on Sport Versions, ESP, with a very finely-engineered emergency braking system (EBA). The exceptional handling and stability of the Altea range are further enhanced by the introduction of a new electro-mechanical power steering, incorporated within a newly designed specialist ‘Agile Chassis’ technology, which was only recently developed at the SEAT’s Barcelona Technical Centre. As a mark of further attention to security, the Altea was the first SEAT in the EU to have six airbags included as standard.
SEAT Altea Internal Styling and Features
The SEAT Altea is Sporty and at the same time with a spacious cabin interior, which incorporates seats sculpted ergonomically to provide suitable support, extending to the rear of the knees, with the driver’s seat adjustable, and with some models including a backrest tilt facility and strengthening back support. Although designed for three people, the rear set can be made more comfortable for two by the simple expedient of lowering the central armrest. Rear seat passengers have ample space for feet and legs, with a featured sliding rear seat available in relatively new models. Also in the interior cabin, the design of the instrument dials is exceptionally sporty, with the instrument panel lighting designed to dim or brighten depending on the light available, but it can also be manually controlled.