The Seat Altea made its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show and starting this week it went officially on sale. For 2009 the Altea will be offered in 5 different versions divided into two body styles, nine engine choices – five petrol and four Diesel, four gearboxes (5 and 6-speed manual, and 6 and 7-speed DSG), and three trim levels – Reference, Style and Sport.

The powerful 211 hp 2.0 TSI engine steals the spotlight in the petrol engine range, while the great novelty among the Diesel choices is the arrival of common rail technology to the 170 hp 2.0 TDI engine. Furthermore, all the versions equipped with the DSG automatic sequential gearbox, now also available on the seven-speed 160 hp 1.8 TSI, feature shift paddles on the steering wheel.

The entry level features: ABS and TCS, ESP with EBA, driver and passenger airbag, side airbags, head airbag, rear Isofix anchoring points, front power one-touch anti-trap windows, remote controlled central locking, tinted glass, 15 inch steel rims, 195/65 tyres, double headlights, anti-theft roof aerial. The Reference version adds: trip computer, CD radio + MP3 + 6 speakers + Aux in, low tyre pressure warning, air conditioning, body colour door mirrors and handles, front active headrests (on the Altea XL) and rear door folding shades (also on the Altea XL). The Sport trim is being offered with: dark glass, sport seats with specific upholstery, 17” ‘Aroa’ alloy rims, 225/45 tyres and sports suspension.

Full details in the press release after the jump.

seat-altea

Specifications
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  • Model: seat-altea

2009 Seat Altea

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2009 Seat Altea
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Press release

The complete launch offer of the SEAT Altea and Altea XL 2009 range includes 35 different versions divided into two body styles, nine engine choices – five petrol and four Diesel, four gearboxes (5 and 6-speed manual, and 6 and 7-speed DSG), and three trim levels – Reference, Style and Sport. The offer is complete with a new entry-level version and the Altea freetrack model, which is available with either two or four-wheel drive and the Sport trim level.

The new Altea 2009 range is available with a broad equipment list as standard. The entry-level version features the 85 hp 1.4 and 90 hp 1.9 TDI engines on the Altea and only the 90 hp 1.9 TDI on the Altea XL, with elements such as ABS and TCS, ESP with EBA, driver and passenger airbag, side airbags, head airbag, rear Isofix anchoring points, front power one-touch anti-trap windows, remote controlled central locking, tinted glass, 15 inch steel rims, 195/65 tyres, double headlights, anti-theft roof aerial, sliding rear seats, storage compartments on the sides of the front and rear seats, central console storage compartment, storage hooks on the boot sides and rear parcel shelf with storage compartments, among others.

As with the León, the Altea range continues with the Reference version, which builds on the entry-level version with trip computer, CD radio + MP3 + 6 speakers + Aux in, low tyre pressure warning, air conditioning, body colour door mirrors and handles, front active headrests (on the Altea XL) and rear door folding shades (also on the Altea XL).

Style builds on Reference with several more elements, such as cornering foglights, three-spoke leather multi-function steering wheel, leather gearknob, rear power windows, electric heated folding door mirrors, cruise control, Coming Home, chrome inside door handles, climate control, combined USB + Aux in connection, height adjustable driver and passenger seat with lumbar control, 16” ‘Enea’ alloy rims, 205/55 tyres and visible twin tailpipe on versions with 140 hp or higher engines.

The top of the new Altea 2009 range is finished in Sport trim, which builds on Style with dark glass, sport seats with specific upholstery, 17” ‘Aroa’ alloy rims, 225/45 tyres and sports suspension.

Complete list of optional elements


The new Altea 2009 range features a long list of optional elements that significantly increase onboard comfort and safety.

The Lifestyle Plus package is available on the Reference trim level, which includes cornering foglights, 16 inch alloy rims, multi-function steering wheel and heated door mirrors.

As on the León, the Technology and Technology Plus packages are available on the Style and Sport versions. The Technology package includes rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensor, anti-dazzle rear-view mirror and two extra speakers; while the Technology Plus package includes dual xenon headlights + AFS, the SEAT Mediasystem navigation system, Bluetooth and front parking sensors with parking optics. This package is exclusively associated to the Technology package.

The Style trim level is available with the Sport and Sport Plus packages, which include alloy rims (17 inch with the Sport package and 18 inch with the Sport Plus package), specific upholstery, sports suspension, sport seats and dark glass. The Sport Plus package is also available on the Sport trim level, but with 18 inch rims as standard equipment.

The new Altea XL 2009 is available with an exclusive Family package, which provides onboard comfort and entertainment with the addition of ceiling storage with a 7 inch TFT screen and RCA connectors, dark glass and the Technology package.

As for rims, optional 16 inch “Elio” alloy rims are available on the Reference trim level (as standard on the 125 hp 1.4 TSI engine); 17 inch “Agra” rims on Style and 18 inch “Draco” rims on Sport.

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Design


The sportiest and most dynamic family car on the market has been revamped. The SEAT Altea 2009 range has received several improvements that make it even more attractive. Its exterior looks, interior appointments, equipment list and broad engine line-up make the León’s sibling the ideal choice for families on the move.

The new SEAT Altea 2009’s characteristic features are also immediately visible at the front and rear of the car. Besides, a side view reveals the newly-designed door mirrors and modern set of wheels.

The front end sports a newly-designed grille with a smaller SEAT brand logo and a more stylish chrome surround. The new front bumper is straighter, and houses the trapezoidal ventilation slats casing. The larger headlights are also new, making the front end look much sharper and wider. All of these modifications also allow the addition of new systems such as AFS headlights with daylight driving lights, cornering fog lights and front parking sensors.

But perhaps a look at the rear provides a better view of the tell-tale identity traits of the Altea 2009 models. The broader rear window stretches across the full width of the newly designed hatch and also provides much better visibility. The remaining elements are also new and include the light clusters, the smaller brand logo and the bumper. No change has been introduced on the rear light clusters of the Altea XL versions, and only the front end is different compared to the previous model. Meanwhile, the recently-launched  Altea freetrack is identical outside.

The choice of body colours has been reviewed, favouring the addition of new shades such as nimbus grey, Esmeralda green or balea. Customers buying a new Altea can also choose from a total of 13 different body colours, while the Altea XL is available with 14.

It is quite clear the new SEAT Altea range is a cut above in terms of exterior design, and equally importantly, the quality of its manufacturing and the materials used. There are precisely fitted body parts and, on the inside, the brand’s quality is guaranteed thanks to the continuous improvement of all processes.

Significant changes in the interior


Even more changes can be seen on the interior of the Altea 2009 than on the exterior. Modifications have been made to the steering wheel, the controls, instrument cluster, central console, embellishers and seats, making the sportier-looking cockpit and passenger compartment much more modern and sophisticated, and increasing comfort for both driver and occupants.

The multi-function steering wheel and column have been completely redesigned. The four controls are now easier to use, as are the lights mechanism and the Climatic system, and are embellished in galena silver to match the steering wheel. The same silver colour is found on the ventilation bezels, except on the entry-level and Reference versions, which feature a combination of cometa grey and persia black. Customers can also choose the light colours on the Altea and Altea XL, featuring Arena beige combined with a zinc shade.

The upholstery has been changed on the central seat panels. The wide choice of fabrics now includes magma, urano grey, metallic cosmopolitan and catania. The central console houses the hazard warning light buttons and ESP disconnection with a new pictogram, the side lining of the central console features a storage net and the glove compartments of all the models have an inside light.

New features on the Altea freetrack range include a black coloured interior such as on the Sport trim level, replacing the previous brown shades.

One of the most visible differences can be seen on the instrument panel. Now it is backlit with white LEDs and is self-regulating, meaning the brightness varies according to the light in the passenger compartment. There are two kinds of instrument dials depending on the equipment level, either LCD or TFT. This last combination also includes arrow guidance together with the navigator, as well as instant information on driving speed in a digital format.

The models equipped with the common rail engine, and some of the petrol-powered models also include the recommended gear selection display, with an arrow that indicates when to change gears to achieve a more economical and ecological ride. Finally, the new radio, navigation and climate control systems all contribute to the new interior looks of the Altea 2009.

But where the new Altea certainly stands out is in its roominess and modularity. The interior dimensions can be modified according to need. Rear seat passengers can gain more room by sliding the seat bench back. The rear can also accommodate two passengers with a convenient armrest by folding down the middle backrest. More room can be gained in the boot by sliding the rear seat forward or folding it down.

The rear seat can slide 14 cm on the Altea and 16 cm on the Altea XL and freetrack, providing boot space of 510 litres on the Altea and 732 litres on the Altea XL. Besides, the new SEAT Altea and Altea XL each have more than 30 storage solutions for small objects.

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Engines


As on the new SEAT León, the arrival of common rail Diesel technology, the addition of the 211 hp 2.0 TSI petrol engine (on the freetrack) and the introduction of the seven-speed DSG gearbox on the 1.8 TSI are the main mechanical features found on the range. But the model line-up is very broad, and customers can choose among five petrol and four Diesel engines, all of which have undergone considerable modifications to provide better performance and fuel consumption figures, and lower emission levels.

The Diesel range is now equipped with common rail technology. This is based on the Volkswagen Group’s 2.0 litre, four cylinder engine that delivers 170 hp (125 kW). It features piezo-electric injectors for more precise injection, and the common rail system gives greater flexibility. The result is greater fuel economy and fewer emissions, less vibration and reduced noise levels, all with the same performance figures. Maximum torque is 350 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm, average fuel consumption is 5.6 l/100 km, with CO2 emissions of 146 g/km. This engine choice is available with all three trim levels – Altea, Altea XL and Altea freetrack 4WD.

The next engine is the 140 hp (103 kW) 2.0 TDI, with a maximum torque of 320 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. It consumes an average of 5.8 l/100 km with emissions of 157 g/km. It comes equipped with the six-speed manual or DSG gearbox, and is available on all three Altea models.

Other engines in the Diesel range include the 90 hp (66 kW) 1.9 TDI with a five-speed manual gearbox, the 105 hp (77 kW) 1.9 TDI with 5-speed manual or 6-speed DSG, both available on the Altea and Altea XL.

More powerful and ecological petrol engines


The 16V 1.4 entry-level petrol engine has four cylinders and 1,390 cc that develop 85 hp (63 kW), and its maximum torque is 132 Nm at 3,800 rpm. It is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox and it consumes 7.3 litres on average for every 100 km, with 159 g/km of CO2. It is only available on the entry-level Altea version.

Next on the petrol engine list is the 102 hp (75 kW) 1.6, also mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. Its multi-point injection delivers a maximum torque of 148 Nm at 3,800 rpm, with an average fuel consumption figure of 7.3 l/100 km and 173 g/km of CO2 emissions. It is available on the Altea and the Altea XL.

The 125 hp (92 kW) 1.4 TSI is the first turbo-charged engine. A four-cylinder, variable geometry turbo that delivers very low fuel consumption and emission levels despite its power surge. With a torque of 200 Nm between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm, it consumes 6.4 l/100 km, with 152 g/km of CO2 emissions.

But the biggest news  among the petrol engines is the arrival of a 211 hp (155 kW) 2.0 TSI FR version. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group’s new family of engines, which have undergone a cost reduction and provide better fuel economy without affecting performance. Greater power comes from changes to the engine management and turbo pressure, and a new oil pump controlled by the engine unit, while losses and engine weight have been reduced. Maximum torque is 280 Nm between 1,700 and 5,200 rpm, average fuel consumption is 8.4 l/100 km with 197 g/km of CO2 emissions. With the six-speed DSG engine this engine is only available on the Altea freetrack 4WD.

Another change is the improved 160 hp (118 kW) 1.8 TSI, which now features the seven-speed DSG gearbox. Equipped with this engine, the Altea delivers a maximum torque of 250 Nm between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm, consumes an average of 6.7 l/100 km (compared to 7.1 l with the manual gearbox), with 157 g/km of CO2 emissions, compared to 165 g/km of the manual version. Both fully comply with strict EU5 emissions legislation.

Modifications made to the 160 hp 1.8 TSI engine have reduced fuel consumption and emissions levels considerably (0.5 l/km and 15 g/km respectively) compared to the previous Altea version equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox, and 0.6 l/km and 15 g/km compared to the previous Altea XL.

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Chassis


If greater comfort without sacrificing sporty performance was the goal on the new SEAT León, this objective was an absolute priority on the Altea and Altea XL 2009 range. Since it is one of the models geared to more family use, greater comfort was even more important, although not an ounce of agility was lost in achieving it.

The work done focused on increasing driver and passenger comfort in two aspects – changing the suspension ratings and improving the hydraulic valves, and modifying the length of the dampers. Thanks to these modifications, the Altea and Altea XL provide a more comfortable ride and maintain the excellent dynamic qualities that make them stand out compared to their rivals.

One of the reasons is that the Agile Chassis concept is also applied on the Altea and Altea XL range, even though they are more family oriented. Their exterior dimensions perfectly combine with a generous wheelbase and a front McPherson suspension system with aluminium sub-chassis and a Multi-link set-up at the rear, providing excellent dynamic performance and outstanding driving comfort.

Now with Hill Hold Control


Another electronic driving aid featured on the new SEAT Altea 2009 range is Hill Hold Control, first seen on the latest generation SEAT Ibiza. This system prevents the car from rolling forward or back on a slope when the brake pedal is released before engaging first gear, adding comfort to city driving and parking manoeuvres.

The new Altea range is equipped with all the available driving aids, such as ESP, ABS + TCS + EBA + EBV.

Improved tyres and brakes


The renewed personality of the SEAT Altea 2009 can be seen on the new rims and newly designed aerodynamically enhanced door mirrors, which follow in the footsteps of the brand’s two latest models – the Ibiza and the Exeo.

Customers can choose from several rim versions, including 15, 16, 17 and 18 inch versions. They all have an aggressively modern design, which adapts perfectly to the mid range model’s looks.

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Equipment


The new SEAT Altea range features an unending list of hi-tech features; driving aid systems and comfort elements that make the on-board experience more pleasant and contribute towards gaining superior active and passive safety standards.

The ESP, ABS and TCS systems are standard across the model range, while Hill Hold Control is optional.

Better lighting


Several interesting additions have been made to the lighting system, such as the optional Bi-xenon headlights with AFS and daytime driving lights, which will be mandatory in 2011. Cornering fog lights have also been introduced, which light up the sides when turning the steering wheel.

The parking aid system now features the Integral Parking Pilot, which includes front and rear sensors. Besides, on all cars equipped with satellite navigation, the Optical Park System is also included, which displays any obstacle surrounding the vehicle on a screen as a visual back-up to the warning beeps.

New navigation system


The new navigation system is a combination radio and satnav with touch-screen and SD memory card slots, which also interacts with the new climate control. The screen shows information related to navigation, audio, telephone and climate control. A Diversity aerial is integrated in the rear window on those models equipped with a navigation system, complementing the roof aerial for better radio reception.

A further improvement is the possibility of connecting external audio sources with the MDI Multi Device Interface, as standard from the Style trim level, which gives USB or Aux connectivity discretely from inside the central armrest. Vehicles equipped with satnav also have another aux connection for MP3 or iPod devices. There is also a new unit that controls the telephone, which now has more Bluetooth functions.

Complete instrument panel


The instrument panel is another area where SEAT’s new models have been improved. It is white LED backlit and self-regulating depending on lighting conditions, and has new features.

On some models, one feature is arrow guidance to back up the navigation system’s indications, instant digital speed indicator and recommended gear indicator (available on the common rail Diesel and some petrol-powered models), which displays the current gear engaged and recommends when to change gears to achieve more fuel efficiency.

The new instrument panel has more functions such as a new menu selection concept, additional languages, multi-function indicator, vehicle condition, telephone agenda management and display and a new automatic gear change indicator.

The new multi-function controls built into the newly-designed steering wheel can be used to set many of these functions. There are two groups of buttons on either side of the steering wheel; the ones on the left control the audio/telephone functions, and the ones on the right control the menu functions.

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Range


The complete launch offer of the SEAT Altea and Altea XL 2009 range includes 35 different versions divided into two body styles, nine engine choices – five petrol and four Diesel, four gearboxes (5 and 6-speed manual, and 6 and 7-speed DSG), and three trim levels – Reference, Style and Sport. The offer is complete with a new entry-level version and the Altea freetrack model, which is available with either two or four-wheel drive and the Sport trim level.

The new Altea 2009 range is available with a broad equipment list as standard. The entry-level version features the 85 hp 1.4 and 90 hp 1.9 TDI engines on the Altea and only the 90 hp 1.9 TDI on the Altea XL, with elements such as ABS and TCS, ESP with EBA, driver and passenger airbag, side airbags, head airbag, rear Isofix anchoring points, front power one-touch anti-trap windows, remote controlled central locking, tinted glass, 15 inch steel rims, 195/65 tyres, double headlights and anti-theft roof aerial, among others.

Complete list of options


The new Altea 2009 range features a long list of options that significantly increase onboard comfort and safety.

The Lifestyle Plus package is available on the Reference trim level, which includes cornering fog lights, 16 inch alloy rims, multi-function steering wheel and heated door mirrors.

As on the León, the Technology and Technology Plus packages are available on the Style and Sport versions. The Technology package includes rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensor, anti-dazzle rear-view mirror and two extra speakers; while the Technology Plus package includes Bi-xenon headlights + AFS, SEAT Mediasystem navigation system, Bluetooth and front parking sensors with parking optics. This is exclusive to the Technology package.

The Style trim level is available with the Sport package, which includes 17 inch alloy rims, specific upholstery, sports suspension, sport seats and dark glass. This package is also available on Sport, but with 18 inch alloy rims.

The new Altea XL 2009 is available with an exclusive family package which provides onboard comfort and entertainment with the addition of ceiling storage with a 7 inch TFT screen and RCA connectors, dark glass and the Technology package.

As for rims, the Reference trim level is available with 16 inch “Elio” alloy rims (as standard on the 125 hp 1.4 TSI engine); 17 inch “Agra” rims on Style and 18 inch “Draco” rims on Sport.

Altea

EXTERIOR

  • ABS + TCS
  • ESP + EBA
  • Electric heated parking position door mirrors
  • Tinted glass
  • Anti-theft roof aerial
  • Double headlights
  • Body colour bumpers with integrated mouldings
  • 15 inch “Saona” steel rims with 195/65 tyres


INTERIOR

  • Front airbags
  • 2 side airbags
  • 2 head airbags
  • Rear Isofix anchoring points
  • Height adjustable driver seat
  • Rear seats with lumbar control
  • Sliding rear seats
  • Storage drawer beneath front seats
  • Adjustable seatbelts with fasten warning
  • Height and reach adjustable steering wheel
  • Storage compartments on front and rear seat sides
  • Split level storage compartment in central console
  • Rear storage compartment in central console
  • Side storage hooks in boot
  • Boot tray with storage compartments
  • 2 front and rear reading lights
  • Boot light
  • Glove compartment light


ELECTRICAL

  • Front power anti-trap one-touch windows
  • Remote controlled central locking
  • Electrically adjusting headlights

 

Altea Reference


Entry level equipment plus:

  • Trip computer
  • Radio CD + MP3 + 6 speakers + Aux in
  • Low tyre pressure warning
  • Air conditioning
  • Body colour door mirrors and handles
  • Active front headrests (on the Altea XL)
  • Folding rear door curtains (on the Altea XL)

 

Altea Style

Reference equipment plus:

  • Cornering fog lights
  • Multi-function three spoke leather steering wheel
  • Leather gearknob
  • Rear power windows
  • Electric folding door mirrors
  • Cruise control
  • Coming Home headlight function
  • Chrome interior door grips
  • Climate control
  • Combined USB + Aux in connection
  • Driver and passenger seat with lumbar and height adjustment
  • 16 inch “Enea” alloy rims with 205/55 tyres

 

Altea Sport


Style equipment plus:

  • Dark tinted privacy glass
  • Sports seats with specific upholstery
  • 17 inch alloy “Aroa” rims with 225/45 tyres
  • Sports suspension


The list of options is completed as follows:

  • Air conditioning -optional on the entry-level version, standard on Reference
  • Radio Single CD + MP3 + 6 speakers + Aux in –optional on the entry-level version, standard on Reference, Style and Sport
  • Volumetric alarm with back-up battery -optional on Reference, Style and Sport; Bluetooth telephone installation + anti-theft aerial (8 speakers), with steering wheel controls -optional on all trim levels
  • SEAT Mediasystem navigator + Bluetooth + Dot Matrix screen + 2 extra speakers -optional on Style and Sport
  • Combined USB + Aux in connection -optional on Reference, standard on Style and Sport-
  • Hill Hold Control -optional on all trim levels
  • Front and rear parking sensor -optional on Style and Sport
  • Front and rear parking sensor with parking optics -optional on Style and Sport- (requires SEAT Mediasystem navigation system)
  • Ceiling storage with 7 inch TFT screen and RC connectors –optional on Style and Sport
  • Ceiling storage –optional on Style and Sport
  • Dual xenon headlights + AFS -optional on Style and Sport
  • Rear side airbags (thorax) -optional on Style and Sport
  • Electric folding door mirrors -optional on Reference, standard on Style and Sport
  • Rear power windows -optional on Reference, standard on Style and Sport
  • Cruise control -optional on Reference, standard on Style and Sport
  • Heated headlight washer nozzles + headlight washers + heated front seats + heated A pillar + (electric parking position on reference) -optional on Reference, Style and Sport-
  • Dark glass -optional on Reference and Style, standard on Sport
  • Electric sunroof -optional on Style and Sport
  • Metallic paint, emoción red and Custom Color -optional on all trim levels