Strong Residual Values For Seat Alhambra

Buying a car is, for most UK customers, one of the largest investment they’re likely to make, second only to their home. So it becomes crucial to buy a model that holds its value well over time. Seat’s full-sized MPV, the Alhambra, might not be the first thing that pops to mind when thinking about a car’s resale value, but it could actually be the best bet for buyers wanting to hang on to their hard-earned cash.

Recent figures released by CAP Monitor show the Alhambra, which can accommodate seven occupants and their luggage, in genuine comfort, retains more of its value than its key competitors after three years or 60,000 miles (around 100,000 km). The Seat MPV manages to beat rivals from Ford, Peugeot and Renault, by a respectable margin.

Launched in November of last year on the UK market, the Alhambra has already managed to make a name for itself by scooping the title of MPV of the year in the What Car? Awards. It’s available in SEAT showrooms with a number of turbocharged petrol or diesel powerplants, producing from 140 hp to 170 hp. All engines can be mated to a choice between a six-speed manual or six-speed DSG that offers the extra option of changing cogs manually via the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifts.

The most powerful model in the range, the 170 hp 2.0-liter TDI, can sprint from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) in only 9.5 seconds while the maximum speed is a respectable 130 mph (209 km/h).

Among the Alhambra’s key distinctive features we would mention the 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.