Reviews - Seat

Overall Rating

Alhambra is the least expensive Ford/Seat/VW MPV; it's the best value if you're not badge-conscious. Model choice is slightly restricted but it offers VW build quality and good equipment.

• Better value than Galaxy or Sharan
• Refined, fairly quiet, with a smooth ride
• Quality fit and finish, inside and out

• V6 is thirsty with high insurance
• Badge lacks kudos of VW or familiarity of Ford
• 2.0 petrol engine feels sluggish

Alhambra is as easy to drive as a family hatchback and has generous space for five plus luggage. But there's limited load space in seven-seater mode, and removing the rear seats is a bit of a struggle. The interior is efficiently laid out (VW quality detailing is obvious), nicely trimmed and well equipped, with standard air con. The driving position is excellent, noise levels are low, and only the slightly firm ride on broken surfaces loses points. There's little body roll, enhancing occupant comfort. Keen drivers tend to choose the 150bhp 1.8T, which is far quicker but no thirstier than the workmanlike but lacklustre 2.0 petrol engine. The 2.8 V6 packs 204bhp and has lower sports suspension, but it's thirsty. Best enjoyment/economy trade-off are the two VW 1.9 TDi turbodiesels, with 115 or 130bhp, good pulling power and 40-45mpg. Expect used prices to weaken ahead of planned replacement in 2005.

JD Power stars: 3

NCAP: 3

Best Models: 1.9 TDi PD

Worst Models: 2.0 S

Replacement: 2005

• Chrysler Voyager (2001-)
• Fiat Ulysse (2003-)
• Volkswagen Sharan (2000-)