New Seat Alhambra Test Drive

The Alhambra with 4.85 meters long, 22 cm exceeds the previous model. It gained 9 cm in width, reaching 1.90 meters - a record in the segment. Waiver rather than 1 cm in height, so arriving at 1.72 meters. The SEAT Design Director Luc Donckerwolke, together with his collaborators, has achieved the ambitious goal of creating a very spacious inside with a van lines and catchy.

Already at first glance, the new Seat Alhambra is recognizable as a modern and young. The seams are thin and perfectly parallel the result of the high technical precision, controsfaccettature the slight, barely perceptible in the corners, highlight the expressiveness of the lines.

The Front

The front of the Alhambra is characterized by '"Arrow Design", the arrow motif, distinctive Seat design. Trapezoidal radiator grille on, the place is a great logo Seat blacks whose strips, emphasize the vertical lines. The lines of the bonnet by the particular shape of a "V" will continue until the headlights and radiator grille along with creating a pattern that resembles the shape of an arrow, the so-called "Arrow Design". The sharp styling of the bumper is dominated by large air intakes protruding, plastic, with profiles determined. The standard in the external vents are recessed fog lamps. Coupled with halogen headlamps, fog lamps are equipped with static cornering light function that allows up to a speed of 40 km / h, to illuminate a wide area of operation. The exhibition offers Style, on request, a variant of the bi-xenon headlights with low and high beam with gas discharge lamps without mercury. The Seat provides on request, to the Alhambra style, two of the latest generation technological systems: AFS (Advanced Frontlighting System) and the management system, automatic headlamps. The AFS, available exclusively for the bi-xenon headlights, including dynamic curve light and that light turning (adaptive headlights bi-directional). The automatic high beam system can however also be provided for halogen headlights. Thanks to a sensor mounted on the support of the rearview mirror, the system is able to detect the presence of vehicles and population centers in the field of illumination, automatically choosing between high and low beam.

The profile

Is unmistakable, the Seat Alhambra, is the side with the near-vertical rear pillar. The curved line, large sliding doors are perfectly integrated, both functionally and aesthetically. Above the sill strip runs a horizontal edge that, together with the arches, dominates the side, giving it a distinctive appearance. The exterior mirrors have integrated turn signals with LEDs. The side windows, which are slightly shifted downwards compared to the windshield, help to convey a feeling of transparency and luminosity, while providing ample visibility for passengers. The Alhambra Style can be provided, upon request, with a special chrome frame of the window. The blacks are roof rails as standard, optional chrome for the Style can be.

The rear end

The rear end is characterized by a clear and straightforward. One of the most important is the large roof spoiler, which is integrated third brake light. The plate is placed under the big SEAT logo and the word "Alhambra", in a slightly recessed in the tailgate. The headlights are inspired, with a slight change in appearance, the geometry of the front. They are divided into two parts: the segment is located on the outer and inner pillar tapering toward the center on the tailgate of the car. The internal parts are organized in horizontal wavy lines, dark, give a very special design. The new SEAT Alhambra offers a wide range of colors: "Black Candy" and "Red Sauce" are the pastel shades and metallic pearl effect are the '"Reflex Silver"' s "Silver Leaf", the "Grey Iridium", the "Blue Nayara", the "Blue Night" and "Absolute Black". Alternatively, SEAT also offers custom color as the exclusive "Boal." Sliding Doors The new Seat Alhambra is equipped as standard with two sliding rear doors. Thanks to specific kinematic characteristics, they open and close very easily. Unlike traditional swing doors, sliding ones make it much more convenient access to the car, such as parking garages within or very close. By opening the doors, there is no risk to go into the vehicle or near the wall. The wide opening sliding door allows easy access to the rear of the car. The doors slide on three guides that are located at the skirts, the side above the rear wheel arch and the upper line of the glass surface. The latter is housed in a separate housing, that the optimal protection against environmental influences. The two doors are fitted as standard with electric windows. Style in setting, the two sliding doors are available, on request, with electric drive. They can be operated using two buttons on the center console, the buttons on the B-pillar or on the same door handles. The electric sliding doors can also open and close with a remote control. If the fuel filler flap is open, you can not operate the system. The width of the opening of the electric sliding doors can be set individually. The opening and closing can be interrupted at any time and to this end uses a locking drive system that keeps the door securely in place even when the car is on a slope.

In addition, an auxiliary device closure ensures the perfect functioning of the doors in case of very low temperatures. Number is also a child safety lock that can be handled easily by the driver from your location. For maximum safety, the Seat Alhambra has also provided a protection system valves. This is a special feature of the control device which calculates the ratio between the amount of electricity supplied for the operation of ports and the speed of the drive itself. If a door comes into contact with an obstacle while closing, it automatically stops and reopens. Similarly, if an obstacle is detected while opening the door will stop immediately. During the closing of the doors will also hear a beep.

The aerodynamics and acoustics

The optimal efficiency of the new SEAT Alhambra is the result of a remarkable technical precision. One of his strengths is perfectly balanced aerodynamics. Achieves a coefficient of just Cd 0.299, a real record in the segment, with a 5% improvement over the previous model. The aerodynamic characteristics of the new Alhambra have been studied and refined during the initial design, through calculations for air flow. A long and careful process, during which engineers and designers carefully evaluate every little detail. For example, in the front pillars: their shape with optimized profile of harvesting, ensures a deviation of the air flow from the windshield to the side windows, a detail that helps to keep the level of resistance and wind noise, thus ensuring a well good visibility of the exterior mirrors in case of rain. There were also improved the aerodynamics of the mirrors and their attachment to the body. The parameters also determine the aerodynamic design of the door-sill guards: optimize the airflow of the rear wheels, while minimizing drag. The large spoiler on the rear of the roof clearly defines the air flow, greatly reducing the turbulence. The large and small spoiler on the bottom wall of the car, have also been designed so that air can flow without major losses in the underbody, capitalizing on the air flow to cool the organs of propulsion and braking. In the area of the underbody, the cars produce much of their total drag.

The weight 

the body weight of the new SEAT Alhambra is the result of the latest technology - and this is shown by weight. Despite the new Alhambra is considerably larger, firmer and more secure, and equipped with two large sliding doors, the entire structure weighs less than 400 kilograms. The improvement is the result of innovative materials and new methods of construction.

The passive safety

In addition to 13% of hot-forged metal components, other parts of the metal structure of the Alhambra are made ​​of high strength sheet metal. The adoption of this set of materials can respond with excellent performance in terms of security, regardless of the type of collisions: front, side, rear or rollover. In the event of a frontal collision, the structures of the deformation zone located in front of the passenger safety cell absorbs most of the energy generated during the impact. The bumper beam, steel, drop forged, is able to distribute the energy generated on either longitudinal side members, even if the carom. The lower limbs of the passengers are protected by a cross made ​​of hot forged, placed in the footwell. The center console and door-sill guards distribute the impulses of impact to other parts of the body. In parallel to the floor of the car, the chassis of the sides of the engine compartment and additional reinforcement of doors create load paths of the cell interior. The uprights hot forged, inserted into the frame of the roof, improve the stability of the safety cell. In the event of a side impact, the energy is transmitted mainly along the B-pillars and sill strips, also built in hot forged steel. The four doors are also present special side impact bars, thanks to their diagonal arrangement, in case of collision forces on the discharge structure of the surrounding bodywork. Even in the case of rear impact, the new Alhambra provides maximum protection for passengers, thanks mostly to the large area of the rear spars. The pedestrian protection The new SEAT MPV also fully meets all the standards required for the protection of pedestrians. If a passerby were to hit his head on the hood, between the point of impact and the hard parts of the engine compartment is provided very wide area of deformation. The wings are attached to the body of deformable elements and deformation zones have been created in correspondence of the sleepers of the side windows. Applied a special foam behind the bumper beam absorbs the impact on the legs of pedestrians. Accidents at moderate speed - shock when parking and typical so-called shock - do not cause major consequences on the car, because the technology components of the front and back are well protected. In the case of the most violent impacts, the body responds by executing, together with the restraint systems fitted on board the Alhambra, a definite reaction.

Among the internal protection devices, there are seven airbags (driver and front passenger airbags, two side in the first row of seats, two for the head between the front strut and rear that opens to a curtain and knee airbags located underneath the driver's side of the steering column). The headrests of the front seats thanks to their special design, reduce the likelihood of whiplash in rear-end collision. Several sensors announce, in a timely and reliable, impending collisions. A sensor is positioned in front of particularly sensitive area of ​​the bonnet lock, other sensors in the airbag control unit positioned in the front center console, and acceleration sensors for side impact are integrated into the B-pillars and C All seats are equipped with the Alhambra three-point safety belts, plus front ones have pretensioners and force limiters, withholding, for increased security. Another standard equipment for the new MPV Seat Belt Reminder is the system (SBR), which controls the connection of the belts on all seats of the car. With an audible and visual driver can control the multifunction display so that all passengers are properly fastened seat belts. The second-row seats, and possibly of the optional third row can be equipped with Isofix anchoring points and Top Tether-to secure additional seats. You can, in addition, one or two integrated child seats for ages 3 years for the second row of seats. The front passenger airbag can be deactivated in case you want to mount a baby egg.

Space and quality

The new Alhambra can easily accommodate many passengers and bulky luggage, the seating has been designed in a completely innovative. You can in fact choose between a version and a five to seven seats. If the second and third row seats are not used, you can easily make them "disappear" in the floor of the car through a simple mechanism of killing. The Alhambra has been carefully designed in every detail to ensure maximum user-friendliness and ease of use. The design of the seats and door took into account the opinions and assessments provided by potential future customers. Some children between 6 and 14 years, with parents, has had the opportunity of trying out the prototypes of the car, pointing out all of their proposals on the various improvements, one of which, for example, is the design of handles on the drive back.

The second-row seats

in the second row passengers sit slightly higher than the driver and front passenger seats as on film. The large side windows offer a view. For the second row, the Seat offers a standard three separate seats. The second-row seats can be moved longitudinally by 160 millimeters, while the inclination of the backrest can be adjusted in small steps. The sessions of the seats are deep and offer more support for the legs, the height of the chair and headroom are increased. To protect passengers from the sun, the Alhambra Style is equipped with sunshades. In case of transport of large loads, in the previous model was necessary to remove the rear seats, but today with the practical system "EasyFold" tear down the seats is a breeze, just a single and easy operation. Pulling the lever on the backrest tilts the seat: the seat so "compacted" drops disappearing into the floor below. All this is possible without having to remove the headrests.

The third row seats of

the seven-seat Alhambra has a third row of seats (2 + 3 + 2), positioned slightly higher than the second. Thanks to the wide opening sliding doors and the fact that the second-row outer seats move forward easily access to the latest two-seater is now significantly easier. The wheelbase of 2.92 meters, 8 cm longer than its predecessor, is a great advantage because it provides more space at knee level, offering adults a good seating comfort even on the third row seats. The inclination of the backrest can be adjusted in two positions. The third-row seats can be easily cut with gas springs, while the seat and the backrest is folded into the floor of the car. The trunk does not matter if you break down both rows of seats or just one: the result is always a completely flat load surface. If you knock down only the third-row seats the cargo floor, carpeted, it quickly becomes 1.3 meters deep. In this case the loading of the Alhambra with seven seats, calculated up to the height of the lining of the luggage compartment is 809 liters well. Alternatively, thanks to a network partition, which is available on request, you can load up to the roof reaching a volume of 1,339 liters (holding 5 seats). If you break down even the second-row seats, the depth of the surface load, measured up to the front seat backrests, up to 2.10 meters. This particular configuration, uploading up to roof level, allows for a capacity of 2,430 gallons in a 5-seater version and 2,297 liters in the 7-seater. If you wish, you can also fold the front passenger seat back, to make room for long objects up to 2.95 meters. A particularly handy option is the electrically operated tailgate, which is available on request for the Style version.

The system can be controlled with a switch on the center console or on the door with two keys, one for opening and one for closing. Like the electric sliding doors, power tailgate also has a protection system valves. The opening angle can be set to prevent collisions with very low ceilings. When the tailgate is fully opened, the space below reaches a height of 1.85 meters, to ensure that most people can fit in your feet. The sill of the Alhambra, located at a height of 67 cm, is very convenient to access the luggage compartment and there is no step. The trunk has a series of 12-volt power outlet, tie-down eyes, bag hook, foldable and removable cover and storage space on the walls, the 5-seater version is equipped with other compartments in the floor of the boot.

Upon request, the Seat can also provide the new Cargo Package, consisting of a network and two sliding telescopic rails which are anchored on the upper side walls, extending the network as a sort of hammock. Who needs to tow a caravan or trailer will certainly appreciate the handy retractable hitch. Is released electrically by pressing a button in the trunk, so just turn it with your foot until it locks into place. The versions with TDI engines can tow trailers up to 2.2 tonnes.

Elegant and functional

The dashboard of the Seat Alhambra completely re the cockpit of the previous model, while keeping in place the most important elements. Seat's engineers and designers have paid close attention to every detail, and in fact the instrument panel in its horizontal layout, expresses maximum functionality with a sporty and elegant.

Quality design and materials used for the new Alhambra were chosen with great care, especially in terms of quality. The surfaces of the dashboard, carried out with technical slush, are fixed with a soft foam and embellished with an elegant leather effect. Sober frames outlined in chrome air intakes and most of the groups of switches. The moldings of the dashboard and front doors are made, according to the specification in various materials. All the knobs and buttons - illuminated in red color SEAT - are located in a prime location and provide precise ride.

The center console

The instrument panel consists of two parts, one upper and one lower, divided by a molding. The cockpit forms a sinuous wave: on the center console, slightly protruding, all switches are arranged in a higher position and ergonomically better than the previous model. The center console houses the top sound systems, video and navigation. The latter, along with the audio system top of the range, has a touchscreen display. Below the display, the molding, finds its ideal location the big switch for the hazard lights, above, however, there is a storage compartment that, in the Alhambra style, is equipped with a flap. In the central area of the dashboard are the climate controls, below which there is a double row of switches for functions such as electrically operated sliding doors (on request) and the tailgate. A second storage compartment complete the structure of the center console. The central tunnel The parking brake is located in the center tunnel, in the usual position between the two front seats. To activate or deactivate the touch of a button handy: the new electromechanical parking brake operated saves space in the cockpit, increasing comfort and safety. The "Auto Hold" helps the driver when starting, in the uphill sections, blocking the car for a few seconds after you release the brake pedal.

The equipment

under two domes cover elegantly arched, there are two large circular instruments, speedometer and tachometer. Thanks to black on white signs and red needles, the two instruments are safe and easy reading, while the simple silver frame enhances the elegance. The fuel gauge and coolant temperature are integrated into large scales. Among the circular instruments then also fits the multifunctional display (MFA) as standard, which provides the driver with important information and functions. The Alhambra Style can be fitted, on request, a "plus" version with advanced features. If desired, the MFA can also be controlled by a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel: the switches and buttons, positioned on the superior races, can be operated in an easy, convenient and intuitive. The steering column is provided as standard, adjustable in height and depth.

The seats in the front row

The driver's seat ergonomics is critical of the Alhambra, which allows you to travel, even for long stretches, in a comfortable position and correct. The MPV's Seat offers comfortable seats, which support and sustain the bust beautifully. The driver and front passenger are seated in a slightly low and sporty than its predecessor. The space in the head has increased by 16 mm. The driver's seat is offered for the full range adjustable in height in the Reference line can be ordered, electric lumbar support. As an option, the Alhambra Style may also have heated front seats, electrically adjustable with 12 positions, and leather upholstery. For the Style version, as well as for the Reference, is available on request a seat heating system in the so-called winter package.

The glove

has designed the new The Seat Alhambra for an active lifestyle, so the new van also includes a wide range of surfaces and storage space: the doors, in the sky, under the front seats and in front of those in the second row, as well as in the trunk. Are also installed in the cockpit, according to the number of seats, one or two 12-volt power outlets. The large storage compartment at the top on the bridge has a volume of 3.2 liters. The center armrest, adjustable tilt and standard length, located between the two front seats, hidden inside the glove compartment to another. The front doors house a bottle of the maximum capacity of 1.5 liters, while sliding may contain 1 liter bottles. Two cupholders in front and second row seats are the perfect addition to the equipment for the transport of beverages in the car.

Technology comfort

Upon request, the Seat proposes, for the new Alhambra, a rich assortment of technology solutions dedicated to the comfort, infotainment systems to the innovative system for parking assistance. This therefore offers large MPV segment than the luxury, making it a practical car travel, attention to every detail.

The air conditioner

is equipped with the Alhambra series of three-zone climate control that adjusts cabin temperature in three separate areas (driver side, passenger side and rear). Each seat, even in the third row, has its own air intake. The new three-zone climate control displays all the important information on the display of the radio and navigation system. If a setting is changed manually, the display for a few seconds a window that informs the driver of the change occurred. The system adjusts its operation according to the solar radiation and humidity values ​​detected by a sensor. By comparing the temperature of the air and glass, is able to detect when the windshield is going to cloud over and then activates the compressor only when necessary. The air conditioner to cool also provides a spacious glove compartment in the dashboard. The parking assistance systems The new Seat Alhambra provides various support systems available on request for easy maneuvering and parking. The basic equipment is the front and rear Park Pilot, which works with ultrasonic sensors and informs the driver via audible signals. The version of the second level also has an optical display on the display board. The most advanced features a rearview camera. The display board displays the images as soon as the driver engages reverse gear and the guidelines drawn on the image easier to maneuver and you can also activate the graphical representation. The Seat Alhambra can be equipped with a parking assist system more efficient and intelligent in the world: Park Assist. With 12 ultrasonic sensors, each with a radius of 4.5 meters, is able to find parking spaces present on the roadway side and another one for a two-dimensional measurement. The driver activates the system by pressing the appropriate key and pressing the turn indicator. To find parking in parallel to the road, the Alhambra should go to a top speed of 40 km / h, in the case of parking "comb", which is located transverse to the roadway at a speed of 20 km / h. When the system detects a sufficiently large space, the Park Assist shall perform the maneuver in reverse, the driver only needs to accelerate and brake, by following the visual and acoustic signals. The Park Assist system can operate, the Seat Alhambra parking parallel to the road or comb. In parallel parking, it is sufficient that the space available is 1.1 meters longer than the car: the system will, if necessary repeatedly swerving back and forth. The exit from the parking lot is more or less the same way, but in this case just an area of half a meter. The Park Assist is able to facilitate the parallel parking maneuver in the curve, near the sidewalk and into the trees or other obstacles.

The sound systems, sound and navigation

for the Seat Alhambra is a choice of three audio systems and navigation systems. As standard, the Seat of the SUV out of the production line equipped with 1.0 Sound System that, in addition to the radio tuner and single CD player, has four integrated speakers. Is available as an option on 2.0 Sound System with eight speakers, aux-in double tuner: a program receives, the other continues to search for other broadcasters. Both can also play audio files in MP3 format. The system that provides access to the world of sailing at an attractive price is the new Seat Media System 2.1. It consists of a 5-inch touchscreen with resolution 400 x 240 pixels, a CD player, a slot for SD cards and a dual tuner. The navigation data for Western Europe are preinstalled and you can also select a 3D view. The inclusion of the destination - how to navigate in the menus - it's very simple and intuitive. As an optional high-level, SEAT offers a high quality audio system. Developed specifically to the Alhambra, the plant is equipped with a digital amplifier 4 x 20 watts. The system operates eight speakers - four two-way systems, two tweeters and two speakers for the mid-bass - and provides excellent sound quality, which is clear, soft and clear. Other options available are the average taken in and USB adapter cable to connect in a simple and convenient external players. Alternatively, there is also an iPod docking station that allows the plant to integrate the management of the car and the display of the mobile device. To call in peace, Seat has ultra-modern thought to a solution. If the phone has Handsfree Profile or SIM Access Profile, a Bluetooth interface connects the device to the antenna GSM / UMTS Alhambra. The entry is well reproduced from the audio of the car.

Power and maximum efficiency

The Seat Alhambra is on the market with four ultra-modern four-cylinder engines: two petrol and two TDI diesel IST. Maximum output of 140 kW or 200 CV/103 CV/147 kW with maximum torque of 350 Nm All four engines combine direct injection technology and turbocharging: the result of this is a perfect marriage car with sporty performance and high efficiency. The engines of the Alhambra are more powerful than its predecessor, but at the same time allowing a saving of 16% of consumption. The 2.0 TDI with 140 kW CV/103 is satisfied, on average, only 5.5 liters of diesel per 100 km, with CO2 emissions of 143 grams per km, a record value in the large MPV category. Both TDI are also equipped with an SCR catalyst (Selective Catalytic Reduction), making them among the most environmentally friendly diesel on the market. Three of the engines, whose maximum power to 170 kW CV/125, are fitted with an automatic start / stop and recover kinetic energy during braking, two important innovations that lead back to the technology of the SEAT Ecomotive. On request, we can match each of the four engines of a dual clutch transmission (DSG) 6-speed, which allows you to make change extremely fast and simple. The more powerful engine, the TSI with 200 kW CV/147, is equipped with the DSG as standard.

The automatic start / stop and regenerative braking

Three of the four engines of the new Seat Alhambra - the two TDI and TSI with 150 kW CV/110 - use the latest technology in terms of efficiency. The automatic start / stop the engine off when the car is in neutral and the foot of the driver released the clutch pedal. Pressing the clutch, starter motor powered on again so quick and easy. The automatic start / stop, which can be activated by the driver at any time, also works in combination with the DSG: the driver must only think of press or release the brake. Thanks to a particularly powerful and resistant to battery charging cycles, the system remains active even in the winter months with very low temperatures. The automatic start / stop can save up to 4% of fuel per 100 km. The energy recovery during braking, the other interesting news of the Alhambra, is able to recover some of the energy used during braking and feed by inertia, and store it temporarily in the battery. Thanks to an intelligent voltage regulation of the alternator when the car accelerates again, this energy flows into the network edge. The system thus helps to lighten the load on the alternator, which can be supplied with a voltage less than or even shut down completely. This results in a lower engine load and therefore a reduction in fuel consumption. These are just two of countless technological solutions aimed at optimizing the efficiency of the new Alhambra. The fuel pump, for example, requires only the amount of energy required in each different operating situation. Better energy management involves the further reduction in fuel consumption. The TDI engines The two four-cylinder TDI of the Alhambra have a displacement of 1,968 cm3. Unlike the previous engines, the two 2.0 TDI have been improved in several respects. The weight has been increased to less than 150 kilograms. Much of the weight reduction was obtained on the cylinder head, less complex than the previous year, while the base is made ​​of cast iron. The toothed belt that drives the two camshafts and auxiliaries is thinner, which allows it to function, producing less noise and less friction. The water pump has a lower energy demand, oil pump operates at a controlled pressure and the motor shaft seals have been optimized to ensure optimal smoothness. The basis of the Alhambra TDI delivers 140 kW of power and CV/103 develops a maximum torque of 320 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. With these values, the minivan with manual transmission accelerates from 0 to 100 km / h in 10.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 194 km / h. The combined fuel consumption makes good record values: only 5.5 liters per 100 km and a CO2 emission level of just 143 g / km. With a full tank (70 liters), the Alhambra has a range of almost 1,300 km. The TDI 170 kW CV/125, between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm producing a maximum torque of 350 Nm: a power sufficient to reach 100 km / h in just 9.8 seconds and top speed of 204 km / h. Even the sporty TDI is characterized by a low fuel consumption, on average 5.9 liters per 100 km with CO2 emissions of just 154 g / km.

The TSI engines

TSI engines with 1.4 and 2.0 liters of displacement, are the perfect example of the philosophy applied to the Seat of downsizing: turbo and supercharging compressor compensates for the displacement. The two compact 4-valve power and torque values ​​reached until a few years ago in the exclusive domain of more powerful engines, but will ensure a much lower fuel consumption. The 1.4 TSI with 150 kW of power CV/110, consumes only 7.2 liters of fuel per 100 km, CO2 emissions of only keeps track of 167 g / km and reaches a maximum torque of 240 Nm between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm. The Alhambra, equipped with this engine and manual gearbox, it's up to 100 km / h in 10.7 seconds and a top speed of 197 km / h. The secret behind the high power resides in a small capacity double charged, the so-called principle of "Twincharger". At low revs, the supercharger is entrusted to a compressor driven mechanically by the engine, which develops a relative boost pressure over 1.0 bar. The supercharger is located upstream of the exhaust gas turbocharger. In a regime of 1,500 rpm, but then enters the turbo function. The most powerful engine of the new Seat Alhambra is the 2.0 TSI, which will be available later this year. Will match the Seat of the series, the most powerful gasoline engine to a 6-speed DSG.

The manual gearbox

The new Alhambra is produced in all engines except the 2.0 TSI with a 6-speed manual transmission. Compact and lightweight, providing a high degree of efficiency. The gear ratios have been optimized to provide optimum ride comfort and high dynamics, and the ratio of the higher gears are lengthened.

The DSG's new Alhambra, can be supplied with 6-speed DSG (2.0 is standard in IST). The dual clutch transmission, with very fluid couplings, combines dynamism, comfort and efficiency. The DSG 6-speed switches from one brand to another within a few hundredths of a second, in a linear and smooth, the driver can still choose between fully automatic and manual modes, which can also be operated with steering wheel controls. Automatic operation has in turn two modes: A (normal) and S (sport).

Spatial

Among the many strengths of the new Seat Alhambra is also mentioned sports suspension. The SUV is very nimble, agile and incredibly comfortable. It is able to turn corners with alacrity in the frame is stable and responsive. The system ESP electronic stability control helps to provide comfort and driving safety.

Suspension and Steering

The new Alhambra features a classic front axle McPherson suspension with lower triangular and independent suspension. The cross arm, the pivot bearing and the subframe are made ​​of aluminum so the weight has been reduced and also the unsprung weight. The lane is 1.57 meters, 4 cm more than the previous model. The steering comprises a rack structure and the power steering works on the speed of the car. The steering reacts to the road precise and energetic, conveys a sense of security and tranquility in the straight-line driving and responds well to any solicitation of the land. Since the electromechanical system, when driving straight, does not require energy, the fuel consumption of the Alhambra is reduced, depending on the engine, up to 0.3 liters per 100 km. The power steering is working closely with the Park Assist system, when present.

The electromechanical steering is crucial to ensure the safety of driving. Coupled with the stabilization control system ESP helps the driver in case of uneven road surfaces and driving phases are particularly difficult, reducing or increasing the power assist to the extent appropriate. In the back of the Alhambra is mounted a four-arm multilink axle, attached to an aluminum subframe. The track has been widened to 1.62 meters, less than 9 inches longer than its predecessor. The sophisticated structure of the rear axle support separates the lateral and longitudinal forces. The trailing arms absorb the forces driving and braking, and thanks all'assetto relatively soft, provide a good ride comfort. The three wishbones on each wheel - the suspension arm, upper control arm cross - are connected rigidly to the support shaft to transmit the lateral forces directly and precisely to the body. All the arms and crossbars are made ​​of high strength steel. The coil springs and dampers are separated, which allowed designers to have a wide range in the calibration. The wheels and brakes The new Alhambra Reference has 6.5 J x 16 wheels with 205/60 tires. The rims are made ​​of flow-forming technology, which makes them particularly light. In setting Style, alloy wheels are mounted in the same format, with 205/60 tires. Upon request, the Style, you may also have 7 J x 17 wheels with 225/50 tires. All tires are equipped with emergency running characteristics: a protective layer in the tread blocks allowing drilling to continue, with due caution, driving. Standard equipment includes a control indicator that indicates any loss of tire pressure. The new Alhambra has large ventilated disc brakes. The front seats have a diameter of 312 mm (314 mm with the DSG), on the rear calipers work on disks with a diameter of 282 mm. The front brakes are made ​​in an innovative and provide greater thermal resistance and reduced braking distances. The electromechanical parking brake acts on the rear axle. The electronic stability control system ESP is standard, is the latest generation. Integrates the function of stabilizing the car and trailer, in case of slip, shall stop the wheels in opposite phase to the oscillations, the system also has an assistant for hill starts. In case of full braking, the hazard warning lights are automatically activated.

Preparations

The standard equipment of the Alhambra Reference

Reference from the preparation already the Alhambra offers a comprehensive package of standard safety equipment. It has seven airbags, three-point seatbelts on all seats, belt tensioners and belt force limiters on front seats the belt, and a acoustic and visual indicator to remind you to fasten your seat belts. Even the Isofix anchoring points for child seats in the rear seats are standard. The ESP system has a built-in stabilization of the trailer and tire pressure indicator, the tires are equipped with emergency running characteristics. A child safety lock on the electric sliding doors, which can be conveniently handled by the driver from his seat, complete security package. A new design element of the Alhambra is the radiator grille with chrome surround. The door handles, bumpers and door mirrors - with integrated LED turn signals - are made ​​of body color. The windshield has acoustic characteristics. Even within the large MPV will find many interesting facilities provided as standard. For example, the 3-zone Climatronic, heated exterior mirrors and electrically adjustable outside temperature indicator, four electric windows, multifunction display and the electromechanical parking brake. The 12-volt sockets, and the SEAT Sound System 1.0 CD-radio with four speakers, and complete electrical and electronic equipment. The seats are comfortable and versatile another of the strengths of the Alhambra. Already in the Reference, the driver's seat is height adjustable, while the steering column is adjustable in height and depth. The armrest can be adjusted in height and angle. The second-row seats have a broad stroke of displacement, precise adjustment of the inclination of the backrest and the function "EasyFold" for killing. The Alhambra offers a whole host of rooms and other storage solutions, including the spacious front drawer lockable, which can be air-conditioned.

The standard equipment of the Alhambra Style

Style The exhibition offers many attractive standard equipment. Such as 7 seats, the 16-inch alloy wheels, electric folding exterior mirrors, the SEAT Sound System 2.0, electric lumbar support on driver's seat, the interior mirror with auto dimming, storage compartments in the dashboard and doors with door, the multifunction steering wheel, illuminated vanity mirrors in the sun visors, elegant moldings, tinted rear glass, roof rails and the speed controller.

Optional extras for the two versions

for both versions, Reference and Style, Seat offers elegant solutions required for the exterior. There are in fact metallic or pearl effect paint and a special color Boal. Other options are the towing, self-leveling rear suspension, the alarm system, Bluetooth connectivity for cell phones, integrated child seats and side airbags for the second row of seats. The winter package includes heated front seats, heated windshield washer nozzles and a Headlamp cleaning system. Cargo included in the package and guides the network to the trunk. Optional extras for the Alhambra Style Exclusively for setting styles are available 17-inch alloy wheels, Exterior Chrome package, sliding doors and tailgate-operated electric, bi-xenon headlamps - Headlamp cleaning system, and with AFS - as well as the SEAT Sound System 3.0. The front seats, electrically adjustable in 12 positions, are heated and equipped, on the driver's side, the memory function, such as rear seats can be upholstered in leather. From the technological point of view, additional options are Bluetooth, the SEAT Media System 2.1 and the rear camera. Another solution exclusively reserved to the Alhambra Style Style is the Advanced Package, which includes 17-inch alloy wheels, electric sliding panoramic sunroof, sport comfort seats, multi-function display "Plus", and elegant design solutions for interiors.

Prices range from 28,500 euros for the 1.4 TSI 150 hp setup "Reference" to 36,100 euros for the 2.0 TDI 170 hp DSG style and layout.