SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020) Review
SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020) At A Glance
The SEAT Alhambra was in production from 2010 until 2020, during which time it cemented a reputation for being one of the best seven-seat MPVs you can buy. It shares much in common with the Volkswagen Sharan, but a more affordable price and arguably nicer styling give the Alhambra an edge over its German sibling. Today, although you can’t buy a new SEAT Alhambra, there are plenty to choose from on the used car market. Take a closer look – this could make more sense than the seven-seat SUV you were considering.
The SEAT Alhambra is one of the best seven-seat MPVs you can buy. But that’s not enough in 2020. Today’s families prefer the chunky looks, low running costs and high driving position offered by the glut of crossovers and SUVs.
But what if we told you that the SEAT Alhambra is just as cheap to run, offered the same commanding driving position and is infinitely more practical than the majority of SUVs on sale today? Would you be prepared to look beyond the slightly drab styling?
Make no mistake, the SEAT Alhambra is an excellent family car. It shares its platform, running gear and sombre styling with the Volkswagen Sharan and is one of a decreasing number of seven-seat MPVs on sale today. Indeed, the Alhambra was axed from the SEAT range in 2020, with the company hoping you’ll buy the stylish yet less practical Tarraco SUV.
The major difference between the Alhambra and the Tarraco – aside from the styling – lies in the back. While the Tarraco is an excellent ‘5+2’ SUV, the Alhambra is a genuine seven-seater. Not five seats and a couple of cheap seats in the back. Seven seats that are suitable for adults.
It’s even practical with all seven seats in use. There’s enough boot space to rival a small supermini, and the passengers in the third row aren’t pressed against the tailgate. Fold away the rear seats and you’ve got an estate car-conquering 658 litres of luggage space, which extends to 2,297 litres if you convert your Alhambra into a two-seater.
The sliding rear doors, which are electric on all except the base model, provide excellent access to the back. Predictably, there are plenty of storage boxes and pockets throughout the cabin, including hidden boxes below the floor. There are even a pair of cupholders, a storage compartment, air vents and roof-mounted lights in the third row.
So far, so good. You might be wondering if the SEAT Alhambra has any vices. It does, but not as many as you might think. Because it dates back to 2010, the Alhambra doesn’t boast the suite of driver assistance systems and connectivity tech that we take for granted in 2020. The infotainment system is a generation or two behind other units.
As an ownership prospect, it’s not the last word in excitement. Practicality, flexibility and ease of use are the Alhambra’s greatest strengths. That said, because it’s based on a car platform and not a commercial vehicle, it’s actually pretty decent to drive. Exciting, no. Decent, yes.
All models are well-equipped, but we’d recommend one with electric sliding doors. We’d also suggest opting for the 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine, especially if you intend to travel ‘seven-up’ on a regular basis. If you can stretch to a facelift model, introduced in October 2015, even better. You’ll enjoy an improved cabin, enhanced safety equipment, an updated infotainment system and better fuel economy.
You might want to own a SEAT Alhambra, but if you’re a new parent and fancy a car that will see your children through to university, this might be one of the shrewdest purchases you could make.
Looking for a second opinon? Read heycar's SEAT Alhambra review.
Reviews for SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020)'s top 3 rivals
SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020) handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.4 TSI to 2.0 TDI 184 DSG
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 25–50 mpg
SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020): Handling and ride quality
While some MPVs of this ilk are based on a commercial vehicle platform, the SEAT Alhambra uses the underpinnings of a car. This means that it’s not as unpleasant to drive as you might think. It actually shames some modern SUVs.
If anything, we’d criticise the Alhambra for being a little on the firm side, with a tendency to crash over potholes and rough surfaces. It’s even worse in cars with ‘sport’ suspension. These cars handle better, so you’ll have to decide what you want from your Alhambra.
It feels very good on motorways, where the Alhambra’s aerodynamics help to keep wind noise in check. Only the sound of the diesel engine upsets the apple cart, but you can avoid this by choosing the 1.4-litre petrol engine.
SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020): Engines
Although most buyers choose the 2.0-litre TDI engine, the 1.4-litre TSI unit makes sense if you spend most of your time in the city. It’s a surprisingly perky engine, although it can run out of steam if you’re travelling with a full load.
Of the two diesel engines, we’d recommend the 177PS unit. Although the 150PS engine delivers an adequate amount of power and torque, the more powerful version is more flexible and only marginally less economical. It’s also better at masking the DSG transmission’s deficiencies, which include hesitancy at low speeds and a reluctance to change down when required.
It’s worth noting that all diesel versions from the 2016 model-year require AdBlue to meet Euro 6 emissions standards. The cost of refilling the tank isn’t too expensive, and you’ll appreciate the 15 percent improvement in fuel efficiency.
SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020): Safety
The SEAT Alhambra was awarded a maximum five-star Euro NCAP safety rating when it was crash-tested in 2010, but this was downgraded to a four-star rating when the car was tested again in 2019. The later cars are no less safe, it’s just the Euro NCAP test is more stringent.
There are three Isofix points across the middle row, while the passenger seat airbag can be deactivated if required. Blind-spot recognition was added as part of the 2016 facelift, but the Alhambra lacks the driver assistance systems we take for granted in 2020.
SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020): Towing
With all that space on offer, you might not need to tow a trailer in a SEAT Alhambra. But if you intend to tow a caravan, boat or horsebox, the 2.0-litre diesel is the car for you. It offers a maximum braked towing weight of up to 2,400kg, or an unbraked capacity of 750kg. A folding tow bar is available from SEAT for a little over £700.
Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
---|---|---|---|
1.4 TSI | 39–42 mpg | 9.9–10.7 s | 150–167 g/km |
1.4 TSI 150 | 42 mpg | 9.9 s | 151 g/km |
1.4 TSI DSG | 37–42 mpg | 9.9–10.0 s | 156–178 g/km |
2.0 TDI 115 Ecomotive | 50 mpg | 12.6 s | 146 g/km |
2.0 TDI 140 DSG | 50 mpg | 10.9 s | 149 g/km |
2.0 TDI 140 Ecomotive | 50 mpg | 10.9 s | 146 g/km |
2.0 TDI 150 DSG | 53–54 mpg | 10.3–10.4 s | 136–137 g/km |
2.0 TDI 150 Ecomotive | 54–55 mpg | 10.2 s | 130–132 g/km |
2.0 TDI 170 | 49 mpg | 9.5 s | 152 g/km |
2.0 TDI 170 DSG | 48 mpg | 9.8 s | 154 g/km |
2.0 TDI 177 | 47 mpg | 9.3 s | 158 g/km |
2.0 TDI 177 DSG | 48 mpg | 9.3–9.6 s | 147–154 g/km |
2.0 TDI 184 | 53 mpg | 9.4 s | 139 g/km |
2.0 TDI 184 DSG | 53 mpg | 8.9 s | 139–141 g/km |
Real MPG average for the SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
75%
Real MPG
25–50 mpg
MPGs submitted
163
SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020) interior
- Boot space is 267–2297 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of four stars
Dimensions | |
---|---|
Length | 4854 mm |
Width | 1904–2081 mm |
Height | 1720–1740 mm |
Wheelbase | 2919 mm |
SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020): Practicality
It might not look glamorous, but you’ll have the last laugh when your neighbour with an SUV is struggling to crowbar seven people and their luggage into a car when you’ve already left and are on your way to your destination.
There’s a lot to like about the SEAT Alhambra, from the sliding rear doors, which are electric on some versions. Once you’ve owned a car with sliding doors, you’ll wonder how you coped without them.
You even get seven seats that are suitable for adults, not five decent seats and a couple in the back that are best reserved for a pair of dwarf monkeys. Crucially, you even get luggage space comparable to a supermini with all seven seats in use. In five-seat mode, the Alhambra can give a large estate car a run for its money.
SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020): Quality and finish
Avoid the entry-level model, which feels a little like the kind of vehicle you’d collect from an airport rental desk, and the SEAT Alhambra feels like a quality product. Not bad when you consider that it dates back to 2010, although the fact that it’s essentially a German MPV with a light Spanish makeover certainly helps.
Sure, it’s not a haven of soft-touch materials and plush surfaces, but it’s built to survive years of family life. From Happy Meals on the way back from the coast, to six tired young footballers on their way back from another drubbing, the cabin feels robust and ready for anything.
SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020): Infotainment
Although practicality doesn’t date, the same can’t be said about the infotainment system. Although the 6.5-inch colour touchscreen media system is perfectly adequate, it’s a tad small by today’s standards. It also lacks the wow-factor delivered by the new Volkswagen Golf Mk8.
Things certainly improved in 2016, when SEAT ditched a media system that was woefully dated. Later models get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to please your children, while you might appreciate the CD player. Time to find those Now That’s What I Call Music compact discs gathering dust in the attic?
SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020) value for money
SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020): Prices
The SEAT Alhambra was an expensive car when it bowed out in 2020, with prices ranging from £30,500 to £38,500, depending on the trim.
For now at least, it’s still possible to buy a new Volkswagen Sharan. The entry-level Sharan SE Nav costs £33,305, but you’ll pay £40,805 for the flagship SEL with a 177PS 2.0-litre TDI engine and a six-speed DSG automatic transmission. If nothing else, this highlights the price advantage of the SEAT Alhambra.
When it was new, we recommended the mid-range SEL trim, as this added electric sliding rear doors and a rear-view camera to an already impressive list of standard features. We stand by this recommendation when buying used. Avoid the entry-level SE and you’ll have everything you need for a stress-free family life. Well, not everything, but at least the car won’t add to your list of worries.
Used prices start from around £5000, but prices at the bottom end of the market are all over the place. Much depends on the mileage and spec, but look out for cars with a history of rental or private hire use. Although the cabin is good at withstanding abuse, the interior trim might be looking a little worse for wear.
You’ll have to double the budget to £10,000 to get your hands on a post-facelift car introduced in 2016. The newest examples cost between £27,000 and £30,000. Many of these cars are unregistered and backed by a three-year manufacturer warranty.
Remember, the only new seven-seat SEAT you can buy is the Tarraco, which shares a platform with the Volkswagen Tiguan and Skoda Kodiaq. It’s a great SUV, but it cannot match the Alhambra for practicality. It’s also more expensive, with prices starting from £29,155.
SEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020): Running Costs
The 1.4-litre TSI petrol should deliver between 34mpg and 36.2mpg on a combined cycle, but you’re likely to see something closer to 30mpg in the real world.
Opt for the 150PS 2.0-litre TDI diesel and you’ll see 41.5mpg to 44.1mpg on a combined cycle, dropping to 39.2mpg to 41.5mpg with the DSG transmission. You could see 38.7mpg to 40.4mpg in an Alhambra with the 177PS version of the 2.0-litre diesel engine.
Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) costs £150 a year for cars registered from 1 April 2017 to 31 March 2020, but this could rise to as much as £285 for cars registered on or before 31 March 2017. If you opt for a post-facelift car, you should pay less tax.
With insurance groups ranging from 20 to 22, the Alhambra should be cheaper to insure than a SEAT Tarraco. Own an MPV and there’s an assumption that you'll be a kind and considerate driver.
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Help us with the Honest John Satisfaction Index nowSEAT Alhambra (2010 – 2020) models and specs
The mid-range SEAT Alhambra SE L is our choice for growing families. Over the course of a three- or four-year finance deal, you’ll be glad you bought a model with electric sliding rear doors, an electric tailgate, a rear-view camera, heated front seats, DAB digital radio and 12-way electrically adjustable leather seats.
Don’t rule out the Xcellence model, which adds an electric panoramic sunroof, keyless entry and go and more comfortable seats to the mix. Just be aware that the ‘sport’ suspension could be a little too firm for some tastes.
Dimensions | |
---|---|
Length | 4854 mm |
Width | 1904–2081 mm |
Height | 1720–1740 mm |
Wheelbase | 2919 mm |
Miscellaneous | |
---|---|
Kerb Weight | 1755–1882 kg |
Boot Space | 267–2297 L |
Warranty | 3 years / 60000 miles |
Servicing | 10000–18000 miles |
Spare Wheel | |||
---|---|---|---|
Standard | Self-sealing tyres |
Costs | |
---|---|
List Price | £23,780–£38,340 |
Insurance Groups | 13–34 |
Road Tax Bands | D–I |
Official MPG | 37.2–55.4 mpg |
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
---|---|
Adult | - |
Child | - |
Pedestrian | - |
Overall | 4 |
On sale until May 2021
Large MPV | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
1.4 TSI 150 S 5dr | £26,495 | 42.2 mpg | 9.9 s |
1.4 TSI 150 SE 5dr | - | 42.2 mpg | 9.9 s |
1.4 TSI 150 SE L 5dr | - | 42.2 mpg | 9.9 s |
2.0 TDI 150 Ecomotive SE L NR 5dr | - | 54.3 mpg | 10.2 s |
2.0 TDI 150 Ecomotive SE NR 5dr | - | 54.3 mpg | 10.2 s |
2.0 TDI 150 Ecomotive Xcellence NR 5dr | - | 54.3 mpg | 10.2 s |
2.0 TDI 150 SE L NR DSG 5dr | - | 53.3 mpg | 10.3 s |
2.0 TDI 150 SE NR DSG 5dr | - | 53.3 mpg | 10.4 s |
2.0 TDI 150 Xcellence NR DSG 5dr | - | 53.3 mpg | 10.3 s |
2.0 TDI 177 Xcellence NR DSG 5dr | £38,340 | - | 9.3 s |
2.0 TDI CR 150 Ecomotive S NR 5dr | £28,705 | 54.3 mpg | 10.2 s |
2.0 TDI CR 150 S NR DSG 5dr | £30,225 | 53.3 mpg | 10.4 s |
On sale until April 2019
Large MPV | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
2.0 TDI 184 Xcellence NR DSG 5dr | £37,320 | 53.3 mpg | 8.9 s |
On sale until January 2019
Large MPV | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
2.0 TDI 184 Xcellence 5dr | £35,895 | 53.3 mpg | 9.4 s |
On sale until November 2018
Large MPV | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
2.0 TDI 150 Style Advanced DSG 5dr | £35,460 | 54.3 mpg | 10.4 s |
2.0 TDI 184 Style Advanced 5dr | £35,590 | 53.3 mpg | 9.4 s |
2.0 TDI 184 Style Advanced DSG 5dr | £36,940 | 53.3 mpg | 8.9 s |
2.0TDI 150 Ecomotive Style Advanced 5dr | £34,130 | 55.4 mpg | 10.2 s |
On sale until October 2017
Large MPV | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
1.4 TSI 150 SE DSG 5dr | £28,380 | 42.2 mpg | 10.0 s |
1.4 TSI 150ps S DSG 5dr | £26,460 | 42.2 mpg | 10.0 s |
2.0 TDI 150 Connect DSG 5dr | £31,970 | 54.3 mpg | 10.4 s |
2.0 TDI 150 Ecomotive Connect 5dr | £30,650 | 55.4 mpg | 10.2 s |
2.0 TDI 150 Ecomotive FR Line 5dr | £34,130 | 55.4 mpg | 10.2 s |
2.0 TDI 150 FR Line DSG 5dr | £35,450 | 54.3 mpg | 10.4 s |
2.0 TDI 184 FR Line 5dr | £35,580 | 53.3 mpg | 9.4 s |
2.0 TDI 184 FR Line DSG 5dr | £36,910 | 53.3 mpg | 8.9 s |
2.0 TDI CR 150 Ecomotive SE Lux 5dr | £33,180 | 55.4 mpg | 10.2 s |
2.0 TDI CR 150 SE Lux DSG 5dr | £34,500 | 54.3 mpg | 10.4 s |
2.0 TDI CR 184 SE Lux 5dr | £34,630 | 53.3 mpg | 9.4 s |
2.0 TDI CR 184 SE Lux DSG 5dr | £35,960 | 53.3 mpg | 8.9 s |
On sale until October 2015
MPV | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
Style Advanced 2.0 TDI CR 150 DSG Auto 5dr | £33,060 | 54.3 mpg | - |
Style Advanced 2.0 TDI CR 184 5dr | £33,185 | 53.3 mpg | - |
Style Advanced 2.0 TDI CR 184 DSG Auto 5dr | £34,485 | 53.3 mpg | - |
Style Advanced 2.0 TDI CR Ecomotive 150 5dr | £31,760 | 55.4 mpg | - |
On sale until July 2015
MPV | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
I-TECH 2.0 TDI CR 140 DSG Auto 5dr | £29,915 | 49.6 mpg | 10.9 s |
I-TECH 2.0 TDI CR Ecomotive 140 5dr | £28,630 | 50.4 mpg | 10.9 s |
S 2.0 TDI CR 140 DSG Auto 5dr | £26,915 | 49.6 mpg | 10.9 s |
S 2.0 TDI CR Ecomotive 140 5dr | £25,630 | 50.4 mpg | 10.9 s |
SE 2.0 TDI CR 140 DSG 5dr Auto | £28,795 | 49.6 mpg | 10.9 s |
SE 2.0 TDI CR Ecomotive 140 5dr | £27,510 | 50.4 mpg | 10.9 s |
SE Lux 2.0 TDI CR 140 DSG Auto 5dr | £32,185 | 49.6 mpg | 10.9 s |
SE Lux 2.0 TDI CR 177 5dr | £32,420 | 47.1 mpg | 9.3 s |
SE Lux 2.0 TDI CR 177 DSG Auto 5dr | £33,705 | 47.9 mpg | 9.6 s |
SE Lux 2.0 TDI CR Ecomotive 140 5dr | £30,900 | 50.4 mpg | 10.9 s |
On sale until June 2014
MPV | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
SE 2.0 TDI CR 177 5dr | £28,750 | 47.1 mpg | 9.3 s |
SE 2.0 TDI CR 177 DSG 5dr Auto | £30,035 | 47.9 mpg | 9.6 s |
On sale until June 2013
People Carrier | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
S 1.4 TSI 5dr | £23,780 | 39.2 mpg | 10.7 s |
S 2.0 TDI CR Ecomotive (115ps) 5dr | £24,270 | 50.4 mpg | 12.6 s |
SE 1.4 TSI 5dr | £25,655 | 39.2 mpg | 10.7 s |
SE 1.4 TSI DSG 5dr Auto | £26,940 | 37.2 mpg | 9.9 s |
On sale until December 2012
People Carrier | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
SE 2.0 TDI CR (170ps) 5dr | £28,190 | 48.7 mpg | 9.5 s |
SE 2.0 TDI CR (170ps) DSG 5dr Auto | £29,475 | 47.9 mpg | 9.8 s |
SE Lux 2.0 TDI CR (170ps) 5dr | £31,630 | 48.7 mpg | 9.5 s |
SE Lux 2.0 TDI CR (170ps) DSG 5dr Auto | £32,915 | 47.9 mpg | 9.8 s |
Model History
- April 2010: New SEAT Alhambra unveiled
- August 2014: Alhambra I-TECH introduced
- June 2015: SEAT Alhambra revised for 2016 model year
April 2010
New SEAT Alhambra unveiled
Measuring 4,854mm the new 2010 SEAT Alhambra is 220mm longer than its predecessor, while it is also wider by 92mm and 12mm lower. There's plenty of room for adults to sit comfortably, even in the third row, while the large sliding doors (with optional electric operation) allow especially easy entry. Luggage space is more than generous, too. When configured as a five-seater the new SEAT has 885 litres of load space available, which grows to a cavernous maximum of 2,297 litres if only the front two seats are in use.
Central to the new car's development has been the intelligent and extremely versatile seating concept - the new Alhambra comes with seating for five, six or seven. Unlike its predecessor if more storage room is called for the second and third-row seats need no longer be removed; instead, they can be sunk easily into the vehicle floor using the "Easy-Fold" system.
The middle row seats can also be arranged longitudinally, with integrated child seats available as an option. Meanwhile the seating position of both the driver and front seat passenger combines the best visibility with a sporty feel and ideal ergonomics. The three centre rear and two rearmost seats all have ISOFIX tethers.
Just like the TSI and TDI engines, the optional DSG dual-clutch transmission delivers a perfect combination of sporting character, comfort and efficiency. But it's the range of state-of-the-art and innovative technologies offered as optional equipment on the new Alhambra that really stand out. Among the highlights are the SEAT's bi-xenon headlamps with adaptive control and new full beam assistant. In this system, a sensor detects oncoming vehicles and automatically dips the beam.
Also new is the park/steer assistant, which autonomously manoeuvres the Alhambra into tight parking spaces. A rear view camera delivers an image of the world behind the vehicle while the optional panorama sliding roof has an opening that is 300% larger than a conventional sunroof. The new car's optional three-zone Climatronic ensures an optimum temperature in all seats while electric motors simplify the operation of the sliding doors and rear hatch.
Standard safety equipment is already well above the industry average. In the new Alhambra it encompasses seven airbags, including a driver-side knee airbag, and electric child locks on the rear doors. Also standard are ABS and ESP, including electronic braking assistant, trailer stabilisation and tyre pressure monitoring display.
August 2014
Alhambra I-TECH introduced
It offers 17-inch 'Dynamic' alloy wheels with titanium finish, sport-style front seats, chrome and black brushed interior and keyless entry & go, SEAT Media System 2.2, including satellite navigation, five-inch colour touchscreen, DAB radio, SD card slot and Bluetooth. Powered by the 2.0 TDI 140, Alhambra I-TECH is available with either manual or auto transmission, costing £28,630 or £29,915.
June 2015
SEAT Alhambra revised for 2016 model year
On sale in UK from October 2015. It offers improved specification as well as a range of diesel engines that all meet EU6 by virtue of SCR needing AdBlue. Manifold in head technology makes them up to 15 per cent more efficient than those they replace. EasyFold seating and side sliding doors continue.
Inside, the 2016 Alhambra gets new upholsteries, new steering wheels and the brand new second generation colour touchscreen MIB infotainment systems across the range. Also standard are an Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, Bluetooth phone connection and three-zone Climatronic air conditioning.
Three 2.0 diesel engines are available in the new Alhambra developing 115PS, 150PS and 184PS. All diesels are EU6 compliant (SCR with AdBlue), more efficient and have improved emissions. All apart from the 115 PS TDI are available with a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed DSG gearboxes. After dropping the 1.4TSI Twincharger a few years ago, SEAT has brought back the 1.4TSI, now belt cam, turbo only with Active Cylinder Technology and developing 150PS.
What to watch out for
Dual Mass Flywheel of 2010/60 reg SEAT Alhambra 2.0 TDI failed at 35k miles. SEAT dealer blamed Tunit ECU reprogramming for having increased the torque that the DMF had to absorb.
08-10-2016:Complaint of water ingress to December 2012 SEAT Alhambra fitted with a sunroof. Turned out that the sunroof drain pipes has become blocked with debris from a tree that the car had been parked under. Warning here is that if you regularly park an Alhambra with a sunroof under a tree you need to regularly get the sunroof drain pipes cleared with an airline.
21-01-2017:Report from Switzerland of AdBlue heater of 2012 VW Sharan (same as Alhambra) EA189 2.0TDI 140 4motion failing at 47,000 kilometres and costing £700 to replace. VW Switzerland refused to contribute, but gave a £250 voucher for future servicing.
27-01-2017:Report of problems with AdBlue sustem of high mileage (127,000 mile) 2014 SEAT Alhambra. Adblue warning light coming on regularly. Each time a warning said fill before 600 miles owner filled it. Even though it was completely full he got an orange warning light which he believed is the one before the red when the car will not start.
13-03-2017:Report of SEAT Alhambra 2.0TDI running low on AdBlue in mide January, giving message "you won't be able to start your car in XXX miles".
05-10-2017:Report of 1.4TSI 150 Twincharger engine in 2011 SEAT Alhambra "tearing itself to pieces" at 64,000 miles. Purchased at 62,000 miles in 2016, it had done very few miles but was independently serviced prior to the disaster. Local SEAT dealer (that had not previously seen the car), relented slightly and rebuilt the engine for £7,000. No 'goodwill' at all from SEAT.
20-07-2018:SEAT Alhambra 2.0 TDI needed new EGR and AdBlue heater at 100,000 miiles.
03-11-2018:Report of post NOx emissions fix problems with 2012 SEAT Alhambra 2.0 TDI: Since the upgrade the car does not drive the same. It has been in with numerous issues since and now owner has been told it needs a new turbo as there is a pressure issue along with the particulate filter and engine management light coming on.
13-03-2019:Report of DPF of SEAT Alhambra 2.0 TDI auto failing within 2 years of NOx emissions fix carried out in 2017. The fan has been running on for some time after driving despite the cold weather. "SEAT is pushing back on contributing for replacement."despite VAG commitment to fix any consequential damage within 2 years of the fix or within a total mileage of 160,000.
30-10-2019:Report of paint bubbles on offside rear door and "just above the wheelarch" on a 2013 SEAT Alhambra coverd by a 12 year no perforation warranty. Local SEAT dealer was very helpful, and after 2 inspections by SEAT UK, the dealer came back saying that SEAT had offered to pay 75% for the repair of the wing spot, but nothing for the rear door. Possible that the bubble on the rear door was superficial and not penetrative.
14-12-2019:Report of post-NOx fix problems with 2013 SEAT Alhambra 2.0 TDI Ecomotive (NOx fix carried out less than 2 years previously). Difference in economy and constant ADblue top ups required but recently performance issues and power drops felt. DPF light came up frequently but went after a 10 minute blast on a fast A road but EML came on and went into limp mode. Went into garage who took for test drive and turbo failed, but they stopped engine immediately. They replaced turbo but couldn't get faults cleared so its now in a SEAT dealership who, after replacing a sensor/switch for the DPF now say DPF is too dirty (tried cleaning by outside specialist but didn't work: too dirty/sooty). SEAT now says £2,000 job to replace DPF.
17-12-2019:Report of DQ500 DSG twin wet clutch transmission on 2017 SEAT Alhambra taking time when reversing and jerking in gears. Sometimes does not change gear in time especially when re-accellerating after braking when it it does not pick up. Recently had transmission oil and filter change but no better. We thing probably caused by a duff brake light switch that creates a delay between braking and accelerating by messaging the ECU that the brakes are applied.
17-12-2019:Report of repeated tyre problems on a 2015 SEAT Alhambra, including high wear rate and sudden deflation resulting in shredded tyres, despite regular balancing and alignment.
01-10-2020:Report of DMF failure on 2016 Seat Alhambra that has done 55,000 miles. It is outside the warranty period and SEAT UK has offered to cover half of the repair costs.