The numbers add up for new Seat Alhambra
It’s well known that a new car purchase is, for most people, the second largest investment they’re likely to make after their home. So choosing a model that holds its value is crucial – and that’s where the new SEAT Alhambra comes in.
The Spanish car maker’s commodious full-size MPV – which can accommodate seven occupants, and their luggage, in genuine comfort – is not only the most advanced people carrier on the market, but also now the best bet for buyers keen to hang on to their hard-earned cash.
The latest figures from motor trade ‘bible’ CAP Monitor show the capacious SEAT retaining more of its original purchase price after three years/60,000 miles than a representative selection of its key competitors.
Retaining a very respectable 33% of its value after three years of doubtless arduous service with families up and down the land, the new SEAT comfortably beats rivals from the likes of Ford, Peugeot and Renault.
In the case of the Renault Espace, the CAP Monitor figures show the Alhambra retaining a massive 12% more of its value over three years/60,000 miles.
Launched here in November of last year the Alhambra is already making headlines in the motoring press, most notably scooping the title of MPV of the year in the respected What Car? Awards.
It’s available in SEAT showrooms with a choice of cutting edge turbocharged petrol or turbodiesel powerplants. Outputs range from 140 PS to 170 PS, and all engines can be mated either to a slick six-speed manual or swift-shifting six-speed DSG auto that offers the extra flexibility of sequential manual operation via the standard steering wheel-mounted paddle shifts.
Economy on the combined cycle ranges from 39.2 mpg up to more than 50 mpg while emissions extend from 178 g/km to just 146 g/km depending on engine and gearbox choice.
Bearing in mind the Alhambra’s generous dimensions performance is in keeping with SEAT’s sporty ethos. The most spirited Alhambra in the current line-up – the 170 PS 2.0 TDI – can sprint from rest to 62 mph in only 9.5 seconds while the maximum speed, where legal, is 130 mph.
Comfort is not compromised either, as all Alhambras boast a high level of standard equipment. Among the highlights available across the range are sliding rear doors (optionally available with electric operation); fuel-saving Stop/Start and Brake Energy Recovery systems; integrated Bluetooth hands-free phone connection; three-zone climate control and front and rear parking sensors.
Welcoming the CAP Monitor prediction of its value in three years, SEAT UK Alhambra Product Manager James Buckell said: ‘We have worked extremely hard to make our new MPV as attractive as possible to family buyers looking for maximum value for their proverbial ‘buck’.
‘I’m very happy that the Alhambra’s combination of great looks, brilliant functionality, generous standard equipment and a very competitive purchase price has clearly made a big impact on the experts at CAP.’
The new SEAT Alhambra is available to order now, with prices starting from £22,800 RRP.
