Car Statistics: Seat - Alhambra Series 10 (4 stars)

Styling (3 stars)

MPVs are always blighted by the nature of their 'box-on-wheels' bodies, and the Alhambra isn't much different. Clean lines mean it certainly isn't the worse, but there aren't many tweaks to differentiate it from the Sharan. The sliding doors necessitate deep lines are cut down the flanks for the runners.

Handling (3 stars)

Pretty much as you'd expect. The Alhambra is safe and predictable at everyday speeds. Take it up a notch or two and it's really not much fun due to a lack of steering feel. Keen drivers will probably prefer the alternatives from Ford.

Comfort (4 stars)

Not bad at all on the smooth Spanish roads of our test route. The odd bump and divot did indicate that the Seat will take most surfaces in its stride.

Quality (4 stars)

Seats don't always feel quite as well finished as their German siblings, but the Alhambra is a decent combination of quiet refinement and hard-wearing resilience.

Performance (3 stars)

Seat's engine choices reflect a requirement for practicality rather than pace. That will be fine with most buyers, and the 140bhp version of the 2.0-litre TDI best fits the Alhambra's demeanour. The 1.4 TSI is as worthy as ever, but there's a bit too much bulk to the big Seat to make it advisable.

Roominess (5 stars)

The Alhambra is a big car by any standard, and it swallows occupants like a minibus. The second row of seats can be moved backwards and forwards so most legroom requirements should be met. There's also an impressive amount of elbow room thanks to the Seat's generous width.

Costs (4 stars)

Thanks to Seat's drive towards fleet buyers, the Alhambra's engines are all reasonably frugal. Both diesel engines promise around 50mpg, while the 1.4 TSI petrol should offer about 39mpg.

Value (4 stars)

Value has always been at the core at Seat's appeal, and the Alhambra keeps to that tradition. With prices likely to start beneath the Sharan's entry level price tag, buyers will (once again) be getting a VW in drag. The difference being that they won't get VW resale values.

Stereo (3 stars)

The basic stereo is the usual uninspiring affair, and the sat nav, while easy to use, is displayed on a frustratingly small screen. Rear power supply for the kids' electronic gadgets is always a welcome sight.