ONE of the most unusual features of SEAT's Altea is that the windscreen wipers do not come to rest at the bottom of the glass, as normal.

Instead, they retreat into the windscreen uprights, which are widened to make sure that the wipers are protected from the elements when not in use.

This may be one way of ensuring that the traffic warden cannot put a parking ticket under them, but it also means that the extra large pillars can restrict the view.

There are little triangular windows in the pillars to help visibility, but they are so tiny that they hardly help at all.

Uprights for the rear windscreen are also large, hindering reversing.

But, like all such design problems, once aware of them the driver takes them automatically into account.

Blind spots in cars are not SEAT's problem alone.

However, with a one-box design, a body taller than your normal saloon or hatchback, plenty of passenger room and a dazzling array of useful places to put things, it is a delightful car to drive.

Altea is the first SEAT to have been developed from scratch since the Spaniards became part of the Audi Brand Group two years ago.

Not only is this a completely new design, it is also a completely new concept as an MSV, which stands for multi sports vehicle. Amazingly, it took only five months for the Altea to make the journey from prototype to showroom.

Its design also signalled the new styling traits that will be seen on all SEAT's latest models: the large radiator grille, almond-shaped headlamps and the design line which runs from the front wheel arch over the doors to the rear wheel.

Altea also brings new technology to SEAT including dual-clutch gearbox, new front suspension, multi-link rear axle, electro-mechanical steering and individual driver and passenger air conditioning.

The latest generation of engines also takes SEAT a step forward.

The petrol range comprise 150Ps 2.0-litre FSi and 102PS 1.6-litre engines, while the diesel range feature 140Ps 2.0-litre 16V turbo diesel injection, and the 105Ps 1.9-litre turbo.

The two most powerful engines are mated to a six-speed gearbox, while the FSi unit is available with a six-speed automatic and clutchless tiptronic. Specification detail includes anti-lock brakes, traction control and an emergency braking system.

The Altea is the first SEAT model to be sold here equipped as standard with driver and passenger airbag, side airbag and head airbag.

On-the-road prices for the eight model range start at £12,850 for the 1.6-litre Reference trim rising to £17,600 for the 2.0-litre turbo diesel Sport.

Updated: 09:34 Friday, November 05, 2004