SEAT Altea Review
Published: 15th February 2005
SEAT Altea
How It Drove - Performance
The SEAT Altea 1.9 TDI PD Stylance is powered by a 1896 cc, 4 cylinder inline engine which produces 105 PS at 4000 rpm enabling the Altea 1.9 TDI PD to accelerate from 0-62 mph in 12.3 seconds and continue to a top speed of 114 mph. The Altea's 1.9 TDI engine offers responsive performance which feels faster than its 0-62 mph time of 12.3 seconds. If you require more performance then opt for the 2.0 TDI with the 6-speed gearbox which is a quicker car (0-62 mph 9.9 seconds but in our opinion didn't feel as good to drive as the 1.9 TDI which was more refined and relaxed to drive.
The 1.9 TDI engine is based on the popular four inline cylinder 100 PS 1.9 TDI with pump-injector units, variable turbine geometry and intercooler, but which now delivers 5 PS more thanks to its new engine management system. Additionally, it now runs cleaner and returns an economical 51.4 mpg on a combined cycle. The diesel engine is not intrusive and is only noticeable at start up or with the windows down at low speed.
The SEAT Altea 1.9 TDI PD Stylance is equipped with a 5-speed manual gearbox which was fluid and easy to operate - taking best advantage of the engines flexibility.
How It Drove - Ride/Handling
Based on the new Golf's platform the Altea also features the Agile Chassis Concept originally developed for the high performance Leon Cupra R. Also commonly known as Dynamic Steering Response (DSR), this provides greater control and greatly enhances safety for the Altea delivering rapid steering response with surprisingly little body roll, despite its relatively high chassis and seating position. The intelligent electro-mechanical steering is well weighted and is relatively precise offering assistance only when the steering wheel is being either turned or is returning to its original position - reducing fuel consumption. We experienced a little more road noise than we would like.
The Altea features a new front suspension with aluminium subframe and unlike other front wheel drive SEATs, the Altea features a new multi-link rear suspension which is firm but comfortable. As with all vehicles with a high seating position you do get the feeling of sitting on rather than in the vehicle but you soon get used to it. Switchable TCS (Traction Control System) is standard across the entire range and works in conjunction with the engine management to prevent the wheels from skidding or spinning. It also provides that extra bit of control that makes the difference in performance.
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