SEAT Altea
The Walter de Silva-designed 'Multi Sports Vehicle' that prioritised style over boxy utility.
- Power
- 105 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 11.9 s
- Top speed
- 114 mph
About the SEAT Altea
Launched in 2004 and facelifted in 2009, the SEAT Altea was a bold attempt to inject Mediterranean flair into the compact MPV segment. Designed by Walter de Silva, it shared its PQ35 platform with the Volkswagen Golf Mk5 but featured a distinctive 'swoosh' side profile and vertically parked windscreen wipers. The 1.6 TDI common-rail engine, introduced during the facelift, replaced the older 1.9-litre unit, offering significantly improved refinement and efficiency. While it lacked the seven-seat versatility of some rivals, its sharp handling and unique styling made it a popular choice for families seeking a more driver-focused alternative to the traditional people carrier.
SEAT Altea specs
The SEAT Altea produces 105 bhp (78 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 11.9 seconds and has a top speed of 114 mph (183 km/h).
| Make | SEAT |
|---|---|
| Model | Altea |
| Trim | 1.6 TDI SE |
| Years | 2009–2015 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | MPV |
| Country | Spain |
| Engine | 1.6-litre turbocharged inline-4 diesel |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 105 bhp (78 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 11.9 s |
| Top speed | 114 mph (183 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,455 kg (3,208 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 72 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
SEAT Altea rarity in CarSpot
The SEAT Altea is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
SEAT Altea fun facts
- The Altea's windscreen wipers are uniquely parked vertically inside the A-pillars to improve aerodynamics and pedestrian safety.
- It was the first SEAT model to be designed within the Audi Brand Group, following the brand's integration in 2002.
- The model was named after the Spanish town of Altea on the Costa Blanca, continuing SEAT's tradition of using Spanish place names.

