SEAT Alhambra

Exterior detailing sports the family central 'nostril' grille seen on other Seat models, which works well with the steeply raked frontal styling. Widely-spaced 'Alhambra' badging on the rear tailgate now matches other Seat models, too. Various trims are available, again reflecting the rest of the Seat family, and all offer better value than the respective Ford or Volkswagen. ESP and curtain airbags are now standard on all. Seat's trademark red instrument illumination seems particularly vivid here, though. Unlike many MPVs, the Alhambra is a competent driver's machine providing a surprisingly sharp responses from the lofty driving position, and with the 140bhp TDI version you have practicality with punch. Indeed, it's good enough to make the 2.8-litre V6 range-topper seem pointless. Be quick though; along with the Ford and Volkswagen, Alhambra production seems likely to cease in 2006.