2012 - Seat Alhambra 4WD

With its permanent all-wheel drive, the new SEAT Alhambra 4WD offers a major benefit in traction on all types of surfaces and in every situation. Safety and mobility under wintery road conditions benefit just as much as its characteristics as a towing vehicle. At the same time, the next-generation electronically controlled all-wheel drive is set up for optimum handling. Thanks to the sophisticated design and perfectly tuned running gear, the SEAT Alhambra stands by the spirit of the brand by offering a high level of sporty driving fun - something thus far unexpected from an MPV. Nevertheless, the Alhambra's excellent long-distance comfort remains fully intact.

Improved handling and traction

Its dynamic handling, refined directional stability and excellent body roll characteristics, delivered by its sophisticated chassis and suspension, make every new Alhambra a pleasure to drive. The SEAT Alhambra 4WD builds on the capabilities of the front-wheel drive models with a significant increase in traction under all road conditions. Plus, the all-wheel drive system has been perfectly integrated into the Alhambra without significant changes to the chassis. The power to the rear axle flows via an angle drive on the front differential and the drive shaft to the Haldex coupling. In order to further improve the already good axle load distribution, it is mounted at the end of the drive shaft together with the rear differential in a single casing. This all-new component is extremely compact and highly robust.

Next-generation hi-tech unit

Running in an oil bath inside this electronically controlled coupling is a multi-disc package that can be pressed together via regulated hydraulic pressure in a continuously variable fashion. The driving force sent to the rear axle is dependent upon the pressure applied. The necessary operating pressure is supplied by an electric annular piston pump, with a pressure accumulator maintaining a constant oil pressure of 30 bar. As a result, the Haldex coupling can operate extremely quickly via an electronically controlled valve, delivering a clear benefit in difficult driving situations. The second and equally important advantage - earlier all-wheel drive systems could react only to the differences in rotational speed between the front and rear wheels. In contrast, the all-wheel coupling on the SEAT Alhambra 4WD receives its orders entirely from electronic intelligence, thus enabling it to take anticipatory action in combination with ESP and ABS.

Fast and continuously variable power distribution

When pulling away or accelerating, for instance, a great deal of torque is required at the rear axle - the discs are pressed heavily together and a lot of power is diverted rearwards. In an extreme case and to avoid spinning front wheels, the system sends all the driving force to the rear. Under constant driving conditions, on the other hand, very little power is required at the rear axle. The coupling opens substantially, which has a positive effect on fuel consumption. Under braking, the coupling opens completely, with no power flowing to the rear. This all-wheel drive system can exercise the full extent of its capabilities as soon as handling systems like ABS, ESP and EDS kick in on slippery road surfaces. Depending on the particular situation, the coupling can be opened for an ABS intervention, or closed for ESP input - in either case, this happens quickly and smoothly.

Powerful performance and outstanding efficiency

The SEAT Alhambra 4WD is equipped with the 2.0 TDI with 103 kW / 140 hp and six-speed manual gearbox. It combines powerful performance with excellent efficiency. Top speed stands at 191 km/h, while acceleration to 100 km/h takes 11.4 seconds. Yet the TDI consumes an average of just 6.0 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, equating to a CO2 figure of 158 grams per km. This is thanks in large part to the Ecomotive package with brake energy recovery and stop/start system. It is also equipped with an SCR catalytic converter (Selective Catalytic Reduction), a technology that makes the SEAT Alhambra 4WD one of the world's cleanest diesels.

Posted in: SEAT