SEAT Altea XL (2007 - 2015) 2.0 TDI Stylance 5d DSG (2008/58) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Practical.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Generally impressed with design and features that please me.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, although I'd prefer a higher driving position but that would entail the whole car being taller.

What are you likely to buy next?

Unsure.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£19,000

When did you buy the car?

September 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

Not as good as I'd hoped because the only car available/offered had features I didn't want/need.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Slightly elevated driving position, driving comfort and load carrying capabilities.

What was the dealer like?

Quite obliging and not too pushy.

What's it like to drive?

Easy to drive under almost all conditions and locations. Visibility is quite good although thick front pillars create a 'blind' area that needs checking. Power is more than adequate under all conditions that I have encountered. Steering is positive and responsive. The automatic gearbox is smooth and changes are barely noticeable under most conditions. However, there can be a short lag in drive being applied when trying to accelerate from a 'rolling' approach to a junction etc.

What's it like to park?

Easy to park - the rear parking sensors are a real boon. I wish there were sensors on the front too.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Electronics and warning displays went haywire as I drove away from the last service. A system reset solved this.

What's most practical about your car?

Capacity for carrying loads - sea fishing rods and boxes and 8 ft lengths of timber. Excellent fuel economy with good performance has been very pleasing.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Automatic gearbox and cruise control.