The Seat Altea is a compact monovolume designed by Italian designer Walter de’Silva and introduced a new direction in Seat design. The car is built on a Volkswagen A5 (PQ35) platform. The Altea is identical to the Toledo model but only has a larger luggage compartment, and an even larger version of the Altea XL is also available. The five-seater Altea is family-oriented but has a sportier image than most competitors. An unusual design detail is that the rear position of the windscreen wipers (when switched off) is vertical, and the wipers themselves are "hidden" in the windscreen struts. The result is a completely wipable windshield, but in this case the front pillars are much wider and limit visibility. The Altea is a safe car and is rated five stars in the Euro NCAP safety rating.
It left a good impression since the first time I saw it. So, I went to Germany and got one for myself. Year: 2004, color: red, it was a second-hand car having a full service history. I’d say a real German family car. How did I manage to find it? www.mobile.de was very helpful. The mileage on the odometer was only 100.000 miles – almost like a brand new babe. A well-kept body and interior satisfied me too. Sitting in a vehicle is quite different than in the office, esp. when you’re in the driver’s seat, you get a good road visibility and this makes the ride even more enjoyable.
Performance
Engine: 1.9 TDI 77kW, the traction is awesome! I only miss the sixth gear when driving more at 90 mph or more. Unfortunately as I know, it comes only with a 2.2 TDI engine (103 kW), but there’s not much use of them since they have problems with injectors. With 2007 Altea or newer no such problems exist. Fuel consumption in the city – 43 mpg, on the highway – 54 mpg if going at 70 mph.
Reliability, running costs
I have no idea about the decrease of its value because I bought it in July 2013. Car parts are same as VW Golf so it’s gonna be cheap.
Recommendations to buyers
I see two options: either to get a used car inspection from a mechanic or get one from abroad.
Best rated hatchbacks
Best rated sedans
Best rated SUVs
Best rated coupes
Commercial vehicles
