2009 Seat Córdoba

Stylish and sporting

SEAT introduced the original Córdoba back in 1994, since when it has been popular with customers looking for a compact, versatile and well-proportioned saloon. Thanks to its spaciousness and comfort, it was admired not only by the driver, but also by the rest of the family.

Now comes the latest chapter in the SEAT Córdoba story, and all-new model which combines all the virtues of the original with the distinctive qualities that identify the new generation of SEAT products. The new Córdoba is further proof that SEAT has developed into a design-led company, creating cars infused with sporting character - twin values that could be seen in the masterful lines of the Salsa and Tango concept cars and which are echoed in the brand claim, 'SEAT auto emoción'. Innovative and sporting styling that's also warm and natural is fast becoming SEAT's trademark.

Racing genes
Compact forms, an expressive 'face', a prominent, aerodynamic, wedge-shaped silhouette, wider tracks… everything on the new Córdoba conveys strength, character, personality, and above all, sporting prowess. The new Córdoba is a worthy heir to SEAT's sporting tradition, since its predecessor provided the base for SEAT's World Rally Car - a machine that challenged the best at the top level of the World Rally Championship.

Sportiness and versatility go hand in hand in this new design. Four doors, greater cabin space and a larger boot are just a few of its features. The new Córdoba is more attractive and more comfortable than before and embraces a wide range of engines certain to satisfy even the most demanding driver. It also offers higher levels of safety, with anti-lock brakes (ABS) and twin front passenger airbags standard across the entire range.

Developed alongside the Ibiza and adopting its sibling's technical innovations, the new Córdoba goes even further in terms of design. More family oriented, the four-door configuration balances three-volume shapes to give the new Córdoba more formal and elegant styling… yet which loses none of the fiery temperament that characterises the modern SEAT.

Quality and technology


The materials chosen to make the new model are also worthy of comment. The chassis, for example, is made of high strength steel, is totally galvanised and is offered with a 12-year perforation rust warranty. Advanced assembly techniques such as laser welding make it easier to build lighter, more robust parts and to deliver an exceptional finish.

The added benefit of Agile Chassis


The new Córdoba also features the new Agile Chassis Concept developed by the Martorell Technical Centre - the concept has already demonstrated its effectiveness on the Ibiza as well as the León Cupra R.

The concept combines carefully tuned suspension settings using stiffer shock absorbers and softer springs, flexible silent-block mountings, low profile tyres and an intelligent programme that alters levels of power steering assistance according to steering forces and vehicle speed. The results are more precise handling, greater feedback and more secure steering feel in all situations. The concept is known as DSR (Dynamic Steering Response).

Diesel strength: 130 hp 1.9 TDi


The range of engines powering the new Córdoba has also undergone a revolution. Three petrol and three Diesel engines offer a broad choice, with power outputs ranging from 64 to 130 hp.

The star performer is the 130 hp (96 kW) 1.9 TDi, which, for the first time in the Córdoba, is mated to a precise six-speed gearbox. But this engine is only part of the story: the Diesel range also includes a 100 hp (74 kW) turbocharged 1.9 TDi and a 64 hp (47 kW) normally aspirated 1.9 SDi.

The petrol offering includes a pair of efficient 1.4 litre, four cylinder engines: the 75 hp (55 kW), available with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox, and 100 hp (74 kW). The new Córdoba will also be available in certain export markets with a new three-cylinder 64 hp (47 kW) 1.2 12V petrol engine.

Three finish levels - Stella, Sport and Signo - widen the new Córdoba range even further, with even the entry level Stella version including ABS, driver and passenger airbag, electro-hydraulic power steering, power windows, remote controlled central locking and quality audio equipment as standard. Sport, which is available with the more powerful engines, is aimed at more performance-minded drivers, while Signo adopts a more luxurious approach.

But a bespoke Córdoba can be created by an owner thanks to a host of attractive options to increase its good looks, comfort and safety.

There are several exceptional options available, such as traction control (TCS), the electronic stability programme (ESP) and Xenon headlamps as well as a dynamic navigation system which is able to plan a new driving route if traffic conditions deteriorate.

DESIGN
Running in the family

The face of the new Córdoba is now more expressive. Larger radiator air intakes, powerful headlamps - optionally available with Xenon bulbs - set beneath smooth, streamlined, transparent polycarbonate covers, and a dramatically flared bonnet balance the muscular shape of the front wings and make the front end of the car appear lower.

This sporting character is also evident at the rear which hints at muscular performance without having to resort to showy accessories. Styling highlights at the rear include a discreet, aerodynamic kite-tail-shaped spoiler integrated in the boot lid, and the stylised tail light clusters housed beneath a transparent casing. The third brake light is also integrated in the boot lid.

Also characteristic of the new design are the deep, body colour bumpers and side protection mouldings, both of which are perfectly integrated in the silhouette. Other distinctive features include the anti-theft 'bee-sting' roof aerial and - a regular feature on the brand's models - the large SEAT logo in the centre of the boot lid, which doubles as the boot handle.

Its high, wedge-shaped waist line and wide tracks heighten the compact look of its proportions, but this sporting four-door saloon is altogether bigger than the previous model. The new Córdoba is 117 mm longer, 58 mm wider and 17 mm taller than before, while it sits on a wheelbase that has been increased by 17 mm… all of which translates into larger interior dimensions and greater passenger comfort.

A perfect finish

Attention to detail is shown in the panel joins, which have been laser welded. This system achieves smoother and more regular joints, without mouldings or edges and has led to the development of a new roof rack anchoring arrangement, with special systems for transporting skis, bicycles, surfboards or conventional luggage.

But the effect is not only visually pleasing. Both the purity of form and the neat finish have a positive influence on aerodynamics, which leads to comfort and performance gains. The result is an aerodynamic coefficient (Cd) of 0.30, a 6 per cent improvement over the previous model.

These attributes can, of course, be found on the entry level Stella version upwards. The enhanced Sport and Signo versions differ by the addition of double headlamps and efficient foglamps integrated in the lower valance. Signo versions are distinguished by a chrome surround on the central portion of the radiator grille. Sport and Signo models also feature 15 inch alloy rims as standard, while Sport versions can be optionally equipped with an impressive set of 16 inch rims.

Sporting atmosphere

The smooth, sculpted interior shapes combine perfectly with the distinctly sporty look of the passenger compartment. The high waist line, the dashboard that extends towards the door panels, prominent circular fresh air vents, the driver-oriented centre console, and the sporty design of the SEATs all contribute to creating the perfect driving environment.

Set deep in a reflection-free housing, the sporty instrument panel emerges from behind a chunky three-spoke steering wheel, adjustable for height and reach. The two main dials, speedometer and tachometer, are augmented by two smaller dials for water temperature and fuel level.

There are two different instrument panel finishes: on Stella and Sport versions it's a dark anthracite grey, while the luxurious Signo has a two-tone effect - black over dark grey - with a soft and smooth slush-moulded finish on top. This finish is also standard on the 130 hp TDi Sport and on all cars with leather upholstery.

Both dashboards are made using a new 'One Shot' mould technology. With this double-injection system, an invisible joint for the passenger airbag cover is pre-formed using a micro-perforating laser, which renders traditional metal hinges unnecessary. This simplifies the assembly and favours recycling.

Within arm's reach

All controls are within easy reach of the driver. Most can be found on the central console, such as those for the air conditioning, audio equipment (radio-cassette or CD-tuner with eight speakers, with the option of a six disc autochanger in the glove compartment), and navigation system. Controls for the power windows, central locking and door mirrors are easy to access on the top half of the driver door panel.

Practicality has been improved with the addition of several neat storage opportunities. Besides the traditional glove compartment on the passenger side and the generous storage compartments in both front doors, the new Córdoba has another glove compartment on the driver's side, beneath the light switches. The centre console has a practical cup holder (depending on the version) and two further storage areas: one beneath the audio equipment and another behind the ashtray. A spacious and functional drawer beneath the passenger SEAT rounds off the list of practical storage compartments in the cabin.

Roominess and great capacity

Larger exterior dimensions translate into a roomy, airy interior which is wider, taller and longer than before. As well as more head and shoulder room, the extra legroom results in a significant improvement in the 'Comfort Measurement' - the distance between the pedal assembly and the rear backrest - which has been increased by 56 mm.

Newly sculpted reclining front SEATs have been anatomically designed and are height adjustable. The steering wheel is also height and reach adjustable to make it easy as possible to find the perfect driving position.

Wide opening doors make it easy to enter the new Córdoba which is especially comfortable in the back. SEATing three passengers, the rear SEATs feature two height adjustable headrests, Isofix fasteners for child SEATs, and a split folding option that increases load capacity.

With 485 litres, the boot space is larger than its predecessor by 30 litres, even with the full sized spare now fitted. The boot also has fastening rings to ensure all goods can be transported safely.

In short, the new Córdoba is roomier in every dimension. There is more leg and shoulder room in both the front and rear while the SEAT to roof height in the back SEAT is noticeably greater than before. Compared to the previous model, the new Córdoba has 24 mm more shoulder room in the front and 23 mm more in the rear. There is 32 mm more legroom in the back and 13 mm more head room. All in all, it is more comfortable.

CONSTRÚCTION
Intelligent, high quality process

During the development of the new Córdoba, computer assisted design technology, virtual reality techniques, robotics and laser welding have all helped to optimise designs, simplify parts, reduce weight and increase the quality of the structure.

The use of finite element calculation and computer assisted design (CAD) considerably sped up the development process from product definition to project. The result of more effective structural element design is that shapes have been simplified, interactions optimised and dynamic qualities improved. The structural rigidity of the chassis has also been increased by 30 per cent, resulting in a passenger compartment with a high degree of protection - even higher than is required by the demanding ÚS roll-over test.

Achieving this high level of torsional rigidity is also down to the use of a new generation of high strength steel. As well as minimising the effects of any impact, this makes damage easier to repair resulting in a considerable improvement in insurance classification, lower premiums and reduced repair costs.

But new design techniques have not been limited to metal parts. A considerable weight reduction has been achieved by replacing floor and dashboard PVC insulation with a streamlined layer of propylene called aeroflooring, which improves aerodynamics and reduces noise levels. As well as being lighter, this plastic covering is easier to recycle - another example of SEAT's concern for the environment.

Virtual reality

The development of the new Córdoba took place exclusively at SEAT's Technical Centre in Martorell. The Technical Calculation department carried out studies on the behaviour of each element of the car at the prototype stage, using sophisticated Pam-Crash and Powerflow simulation programmes.

The Pam-Crash programme involved the simulation of all kinds of crash tests, either on a specific part or the entire car. The results led to the optimisation of chassis structure design as well as defining the shape of panels, profiles, mouldings, body rails and crossbeams. It was also integral in calculating the necessary thickness of each part according to the stress to which it would be subjected. Objectives set for the first actual crash tests were achieved from the outset thanks to this virtual development.

In the same way, before carrying out real-world dynamic tests, the design of the new Córdoba was put through the sophisticated Powerflow calculation programme, which simulates real conditions and studies the vehicle's aerodynamic behaviour. This computer tool is essentially a virtual wind tunnel used to perfect aerodynamic efficiency. A virtual Córdoba was optimised for forward air resistance, gusting side winds, front and rear end lift, and brake and engine cooling long before the car was transformed into metal.

SEAT is one of the few European carmakers to harness these programmes in its development process, although they are far from the only virtual development applications used at the SEAT Technical Centre. With the aid of powerful computer technology and the latest generation software, technical calculation is also used to carry out air conditioning and vibration acoustic studies. The design of fresh air vents is analysed to achieve more efficient airflow within the passenger compartment and faster window de-misting. Studying vibration acoustics detects noise and vibrations made when the vehicle is being driven, locates their origin and redesigns the part to eliminate them.

Laser welding

Laser welding has been used extensively in the construction of the new Córdoba. It is used in the assembly of the main body panels, the welding of sheet metal of different thicknesses before stamping - the 'Tailored Blank' process, which helps reduce the weight of unstressed parts, resulting in highly resistant, lightweight parts - and to weld complex shapes. Another bonus of laser technology is that long welded seams have a neater, smoother finish than is the case with traditional electric welding, resulting in uniform production output.

Such precise assembly techniques results in greater structural rigidity and minimises the development of NVH (noise, vibration and harshness). Wind, road and mechanical noises have been kept to a minimum thanks also to new door and window seals, tighter exhaust anchorage points, new engine mounts, acoustic barriers installed in the hollow sections of the chassis (which alone has reduced road noise by a considerable three decibels), and of course, the intensive work carried out in the wind tunnel. This has helped to reduce the vehicle's aerodynamic coefficient (Cd) by six per cent to 0.30.

Leading edge technology at the Martorell factory

Celebrating its tenth anniversary in 2003, SEAT's Martorell factory is one of the most sophisticated in Europe thanks to its advanced logistics systems and flexible production processes. This year, SEAT has installed three new laser welding stations at Martorell, which provide several production advantages. The use of laser technology increases product quality by attaching the complex shapes that make up the body with a near invisible joins.

Each of the new stations uses three laser beam generators and features 14 laser welding heads attached to robot arms. These 'intelligent' generators apply the precise laser strength to the robot heads according to exact needs at each moment of the production process.

The use of this technology has led to a high level of productivity. The laser welding stations generate a daily output of 1,300 body assemblies, taking only two minutes to laser weld the approximately seven metres of seams on each unit.

CHASSIS
Agility is its middle name

Active safety, dynamic efficiency and super quick reactions are inherent qualities of a sporting chassis that can be summed up in a single word: agility.

It could be said that a sporting chassis is a precision instrument, and the new Córdoba has been developed with this in mind: the Technical Centre in Martorell has created a suspension set-up that delivers greater dynamic behaviour.

All the versions of the new Córdoba feature the Agile Chassis, a novel concept already acclaimed on the Ibiza and the León Cupra R. This innovative concept is known as DSR (Dynamic Steering Response).

The Agile Chassis makes the difference

DSR sets the new Córdoba apart from both its predecessor and its rivals. The combination of stiffer damping, softer springs, flexible silent-block mountings, low profile tyres and intelligent power steering results in more precise handling, greater feedback and greater steering 'feel' under all conditions.

The geometry of the MacPherson strut front suspension is a considerable evolution over the previous generation Córdoba. A three element sub-frame has a robust central stamped steel module and two aluminium consoles housing only the steering gear and the suspension wishbones. Revised spring/damper units are held rigidly in place resulting in improved steering.

Another innovation is the attachment of the anti-roll bar to the shock absorber itself to minimise effects caused by the vertical movement of the wheel. This has made it possible to install a smaller anti-roll bar which, despite its reduced diameter (18 mm), loses nothing in efficiency.

New technologies also feature at the back where the passively steered rear shaft has been moulded using water under extremely high pressure. This system gives a Ú-shape to a circular tube, which by increasing torsional resistance, renders an additional rear anti-roll bar unnecessary.

The passive rear steering element is now more precise thanks to the new, triple-joint silent-block mountings developed by the SEAT Technical Centre. These combine considerable axial stiffness with relatively high torsional flexibility. The lateral support offered by these mountings has led to a significant decrease in reaction times making the vehicle much more agile.

Separating the springs and dampers at the rear provides further benefits. It enables the use of rubber bump stops of differing densities which harden progressively when the suspension compresses thus optimising the ride. It also ensures the widest possible width in the luggage space by reducing suspension intrusion in the boot.

Córdoba's unique pendulum engine mounting system is another innovation that contributes to the efficiency of the chassis. Instead of the traditional triangular support, this system has two upper supports and a lower horizontal brace to ensure the engine-transmission unit remainsindependent of the sub-frame, so the moments of inertia caused by acceleration or deceleration are not transmitted to the suspension structure.

Electro-hydraulic servo-steering

One of the main components of DSR is the electro-hydraulic power-assisted steering. This uses a variable intensity electric pump to vary the amounts of steering assistance provided according to how the car is being driven. Higher levels of assistance are provided during slow speed manoeuvring, but this reduces as speeds rise.

To evaluate the amount of assistance needed in every situation, the control module, installed in the pump itself, processes the information received from a sensor located in the steering column (which measures its turning speed) and from the CAN-Bus (car data network). According to the driving mode, angle of the steering wheel and the vehicle speed, the programme delivers just the right level of assistance.

Since this new system operates independently of the engine, it doesn't sap engine power, is not affected by changes in engine speed and consumes up to 20 times less energy than a conventional servo-steering mechanism. But its most significant contribution to the dynamics of the new Córdoba is as an integral part of the Agile Chassis. Steering response is much quicker, with more wheel/asphalt feedback given to the driver.

Agile Chassis Sport

For those who want even more dynamic handling, the new SEAT Córdoba offers the Sport versions which are equipped with stiffer suspension with revised coil and damper ratings that deliver greater driving agility.

SAFETY
Twin front airbags and ABS as standard

Special attention has been paid to safety during the development of the new SEAT Córdoba. Besides the highly rigid safety shell, which guarantees an excellent level of protection for all occupants, the new design includes a collapsible steering wheel, frangible brake pedal assembly, twin front airbags, side airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control (TCS), electronic stability programme (ESP) and emergency brake assistance (EBA).

Every new Córdoba has ABS as standard, a significant breakthrough in active safety. TCS is standard on the 130 hp 1.9 TDi and optional on all other models, bar the 64 hp SDi.

ESP with EBA: stability and efficient braking

One element designed to improve active safety is the electronic stability programme (ESP), available across the entire range, except on the 64 hp SDi. This system controls skids by automatically activating the brakes - either on individual wheels or all together - or by reducing engine torque to allow the driver to steer out of trouble.

ESP can be disconnected via a switch next to the handbrake on the central tunnel. If the system detects an emergency from the way the brake pedal is pressed, however, it will automatically be reactivated. It is also activated whenever the car is started.

Integral to ESP is the new brake assistance system (EBA). In an emergency, EBA ensures full braking effort is maintained until the car comes to a stop, even if the driver reduces pedal pressure slightly, with ABS ensures the wheels never skid.

Córdoba's braking system meets the most demanding requirements. The entry level versions are equipped with ventilated front discs (256 mm in diameter) and 200 mm rear drums; ESP-equipped models and all versions with 100 hp or more have 232 mm rear discs. The potent 130 hp 1.9 TDi has larger 288 mm front ventilated discs.

Passenger airbag disconnection

Driver and front passenger airbags are standard across the entire Córdoba range. The passenger airbag can be disconnected when a child or infant is being carried in a Reboard child SEAT in the front SEAT. A standard feature on Signo versions and optional on Stella and Sport models, the airbag is disconnected by turning the ignition key in a special lock in the glove compartment. When disconnected, a warning light is illuminated on the centre console.

Side airbags - standard on Sport and Signo, optional on Stella - on the new Córdoba have also evolved; the volume has been increased from 9 to 13 litres, giving greater protection to the chest and pelvic areas of passengers in the event of a side impact. When the model is equipped with the passenger airbag disconnection option, the side airbag is also disconnected.

In the event of a collision, and as an added safety feature, the airbag control unit delivers a signal through the CAN-Bus line that automatically unlocks the doors and turns on the interior and hazard lights.

Passenger compartment: non-deforming safety cell

The structural design of the new Córdoba features six intertwined safety rings, three horizontal and three vertical. This construction, built with high strength steel, makes up a highly resistant safety cell that ensures minimal deformation in the event of a collision.

Another safety risk all but eliminated in the new Córdoba is the intrusion of elements inside the passenger compartment in a crash, hence the collapsible steering column and frangible pedal block.

In a severe frontal collision, the steering column can be pushed backwards to injure the driver. To avoid or lessen the consequences of this, Córdoba's steering column has energy absorption zones near the pedal block and where it joins the steering wheel. These telescopic tubes fold inward in the event of an impact, reducing the risk of chest injury to the driver.

A novel safety element on the new Córdoba is the frangible pedal block. In the same way the steering column may move toward the interior of the cabin in the event of a severe frontal collision, so a shifting pedal block can cause foot and ankle injuries. The new system ensures the pedal block folds forward, out of harm's way, even though the brake pedal is most likely to be pressed down at the moment of impact.

The new Córdoba also features front SEAT belts with electric, pyrotechnic pre-tensioners, which are standard across the entire range. The airbag sensor activates this system itself, instantly tensing the SEAT belt to restrict any forward movement of the body in a collision.

ENGINES
A 130 hp TDI

Multivalve technology, variable geometry turbos and pump-injector units are among the strengths of the complete range of six - three petrol and three Diesel - engines available on the new SEAT Córdoba which between them range in power from 64 to 130 hp. Each unit has been developed to comply with the European Únion's strictest exhaust emission control standards (EÚ-3 for Diesel engines and EÚ-4 for petrol engines).

All are low-maintenance, technologically advanced engines. The petrol trio comprise a novel 64 hp, 1.2-litre three cylinder engine (available in certain export markets) and two 1.4-litre four cylinder units developing 75 hp and 100 hp. All have four valves per cylinder and multi-point injection in common.

The 64 hp 1.9 SDi and 100hp and 130 hp 1.9 TDi Diesel engines feature direct injection; the latter pair with turbochargers and pump injector units.

The new star of the range is undoubtedly the 130 hp 1.9 TDi. As well as being an engine of exceptional power, when mated to a six-speed gearbox it turns the SEAT Córdoba into a genuine high-performance Diesel.

Petrol engines

64 hp (47 kW) 1.2 12V. With four valves per cylinder and a swept volume of 1,198 cc, the engine develops 64 hp at 5,400 rpm. Despite being nearly 200 cc smaller than the equivalent unit in the previous generation Córdoba - the 60 hp 1.4 - the new engine, which was first seen in the latest Ibiza, develops more power. Being built entirely of aluminium, it is also lighter, physically smaller and more economical, consuming an average 11 per cent less and up to 1.2 litres of fuel less for every 100 kilometres of urban driving.

Any potential problems inherent with the three cylinder layout have been smoothed out, literally. A counter rotating shaft running parallel to the crankshaft provides the refinement expected from any four cylinder engine by dramatically reducing vibrations. Both the camshafts and oil pump operate via a maintenance-free chain to guarantee mechanical reliability and precision. An injection moulded plastic intake manifold, whose inside walls have been redesigned with a smoother finish for improved airflow, contributes to lower fuel consumption.

Surprisingly flexible thanks to 112 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm, it powers the Córdoba to 100 km/h from standstill in 157 seconds and delivers a top speed of 168 km/h (11 km/h faster that the previous 60 hp 1.4).

75 hp (55 kW) 1.4 16V. Versatile and of proven efficiency, this four-cylinder, 1,390 cc engine has hardly been touched up since it was on the previous model. It reaches its maximum power output at 5,000 rpm and its peak torque (126 Nm) at 3,800 rpm, with a notably flat torque curve - it delivers more than 90 per cent of its peak torque from 2,200 rpm. This flexibility gives it exceptional dynamic qualities. It is also the only model in the range available with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic gearbox.

100 hp (74 kW) 1.4 16V. With an identical cylinder capacity and similar construction characteristics to the 75 hp, the 100 hp engine has been fine-tuned for better performance. Its sporty character can clearly be seen in the way it climbs the rev ladder, delivering its maximum output at 6,000 rpm (1,000 rpm higher than its 75 hp sibling).

Better breathing helps it reach that 100 hp. The length and diameter of the intake manifold has been recalibrated for better performance while greater camshaft overlap, larger intake and exhaust valves and a modified electronic management system all contribute to increased output.

In order to take full advantage of this power, its gearbox has been modified to deliver closer, more progressive ratios. The resulting performance levels are exceptional - a top speed of 193 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in only 11.5 seconds.

Diesel engines

64 hp (47 kW) 1.9 SDi. The Diesel range begins with this reliable, normally aspirated 1,896 cc engine. It's a flexible, rotating pump, direct injection unit with a maximum torque output of 125 Nm between 1,600 and 2,800 rpm to give outstanding agility and excellent fuel consumption figures. Úsing just 4.8 litres of fuel for every 100 kilometres, it's the most frugal of the new Córdoba range.

100 hp (74 kW) 1.9 TDi. A true technological jewel, the 1.9 TDi adopts the advanced pump injector system with four independent electronically controlled injectors, each with its own pump. A variable geometry turbo and an efficient intercooler assure top performance at all times - 100 hp at 4,000 rpm and 240 Nm from 1,800 to 2,400 rpm. Flexibility from this sophisticated engine is guaranteed, as are performance levels more akin to a powerful petrol engine: it has a top speed of 192 km/h with 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 11.1 seconds. The combined fuel consumption figure is less than 5 l/100 km.

130 hp (96 kW) 1.9 TDi. Without a doubt, this is the new star of the Córdoba range. Although the block and cylinder head are identical to the 100 hp turbo diesel, the fuel injection system has been adapted to deliver a greater fuel flow and turbo performance has been enhanced. The compressor features an over-sized turbo with larger vanes and a wider exit. Like the 100 hp 1.9 TDi, its 130 hp is reached at 4,000 rpm output, but its 310 Nm torque peaks at only 1,900 rpm. This fantastic performance makes the Córdoba the most powerful turbo diesel in its class.

And with its sporty six-speed gearbox, the 130 hp 1.9 TDi takes full advantage of the generous engine torque throughout the entire rev range, resulting in enviable performance figures. Top speed is 209 km/h with 0 to 100 km/h taking a mere 9.7 seconds to leave you pinned to the backrest. Its average fuel consumption is an incredible 5.1 litres of diesel fuel for every 100 kilometres - barely a decilitre more than the outgoing 110 hp 1.9 TDi.

Only versions equipped with a TDi engine have visible exterior identification. Beneath the model name on the rear, a TDi badge with a red letter 'i' denotes the 100 hp version while if the 'Di' is in red, it's the 130 hp TDi version.

Úp to six speeds

The new SEAT Córdoba is available with four different gearboxes - three cable shift manuals (MQ 200, MQ 250 and MQ 350), and one automatic.

All three manual gearboxes are notable for their precise and easy shift, low weight and compact dimensions. Of most interest, of course, is the six-speed MQ 350 mated to the 130 hp TDi. Able to handle up to 350 Nm of torque, this gearbox maintains its compact size thanks to the use of two secondary shafts, one for the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th gears, and the other for 5th, 6th and reverse.

The adaptive automatic gearbox available on the 75 hp 1.4 16V petrol engine features four speeds and electronic management. Depending on how the driver uses the accelerator, the system recognises press-on or more economical driving attitudes and adapts shift speeds accordingly. Maintenance has been reduced to a minimum, since it is not necessary to change the oil during the vehicle's lifetime.

Source - Seat