SEAT Altea XL (2007 - 2015) 1.9 TDI Reference 5d (2009/09) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
Probably says "family man", although not in a conventional fashion. I think with the kayak on the roof it says here's a practical person who's into the outdoor life and has a car to deliver.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Like it so far.
Would you buy this car again and why?
I would hope to keep it for 5 years or so, so who's knows what else will be available then. I would seriously consider a newer version of this car when the time comes.
What are you likely to buy next?
We keep one practical and one impractical car. Next up would be a replacement impractical one for the wife.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£6,850
When did you buy the car?
April 2012
Did you get a good deal and why?
There appears to be precious few of these available on the used market. I felt I got a fair deal for the age and mileage of the car, and was comparable or cheaper than other models I was considering.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Needed a slightly larger car to work as a commuter and overnight camper, whilst also reducing fuel costs. Amazingly given the length of this car, an adult of upto 6ft can sleep in the back with the flat fold rear seats down.
What was the dealer like?
Friendly, helpful.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Suspension is quite firm, but gives a sporty feel for driving. The 1.9TDi provides enough grunt for overtaking, and everyday driving.
What's it like to park?
You can't see any of the bonnet from the driving position, but as its relatively short its not a massive issue. The slightly higher driving position means you can just about see over other cars, making reversing out of parking bays into traffic slightly safer.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Not yet but only had a few weeks.
What's most practical about your car?
Car runs good mpg's, and provides lots of space to the driver and passangers, without feeling overly large to park etc... You get a huge amount of equipment even for the basic spec model.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Really like the cruise control. Very useful with all the average speed cameras springing up in the area at present.
