Key Facts
Model tested: Seat Altea XL SE 1.2 TSI, Seat Altea XL SE 1.6 TDI CR Ecomotive
Price: £17,335, £18,725
Date tested: July 2010
Road tester: Rhian Angharad Jones

Auto Trader Ten Point Test Rating: 78%
The Altea XL is a larger Altea MPV, so there's plenty of room, a sporty design, a range of efficient engines and a good drive. But does a lack of flexibility and no seven-seat option mean it's too compromised?

1. Looks 7/10
The Altea XL is Seat's sporty-looking alternative to a family estate. A new grille and larger headlights are welcome, but the main differences between the XL and standard Altea are focused at the rear, with its split tail lights and standard roof rails.

2. Looks inside 7/10
A redesigned steering wheel, centre console and instrument dials provide a "sportier-looking cockpit" and a "far higher quality look" than before, according to Seat. Everything feels sturdy and well laid out, but the overall look is plain.

3. Practicality 7/10
The Altea XL has a 532-litre boot but it lacks the flexibility of key rivals as the rear seats don't fold into the floor. There's plenty of storage space though and as it's a tall car, there's a good view of the road ahead.

4. Ride and handling 8/10
The Altea XL is one of the best in its class to drive: it corners well, the steering is responsive and the driving position is excellent. Refinement is great too.

5. Performance 7/10
There are two petrol and three diesel engines. Petrol buyers can choose between 103bhp 1.2 TSI or 123bhp 1.4 TSI engines, the former giving 0-62mph in 11.6 seconds and a 114mph top speed. Diesel options include an 89bhp 1.9-litre TDI, 103bhp 1.6-litre TDI Ecomotive version and a powerful 138bhp 2-litre TDI.

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6. Running costs 8/10
The 1.2 TSI offers a good balance of power and efficiency. CO2 emissions are 132g/km while fuel economy averages 49.6mpg. The 1.6-litre Ecomotive returns 62.8mpg and emits just 119g/km thanks to start and stop plus brake energy recuperation technology.

7. Reliability 9/10
All Altea XLs have a three-year/60,000-mile warranty with the Reliability Index putting Seat in the middle of its the ratings.

8. Safety 9/10
The Altea scored a five-star rating in EuroNCAP crash tests when it was tested in 2004. Entry-level models come with six airbags, ABS, traction control and ESP as standard.

9. Equipment 9/10
Entry level XLs have air-con, ESP, hill hold assist and a six-speaker stereo system with MP3 connectivity. SE models add 16-inch alloys, dual-zone climate control, front fog lights with cornering function, all-round electric windows and multi-function steering wheel. Range-topping Sport adds 17-inch alloys, cruise control and a three-spoke steering wheel.

10. X-Factor 7/10
The Altea XL is well priced, offers plenty of space for five adults and their luggage, a sporty design, a range of efficient engines and plenty of equipment. While it lacks the flexibility of rivals, it's one of the best in its class to drive.