The SEAT León II (1P) facelift, produced from 2009 to 2012, represents a significant update to the second generation of SEAT’s compact hatchback. While SEAT is now a mainstream brand within the Volkswagen Group, the León historically served as a key model for establishing the Spanish manufacturer as a purveyor of stylish and dynamically capable vehicles, particularly within the European market. The 1.4 MPI (85 horsepower) variant was positioned as an entry-level offering, prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability over outright performance. This model aimed to provide a practical and economical choice for buyers seeking a versatile hatchback for daily commuting and urban driving.
SEAT León II (1P) Facelift: A Detailed Overview
The 2009 facelift brought cosmetic and minor mechanical revisions to the León II, enhancing its appeal and addressing some criticisms of the original model. These changes included revised front and rear styling, updated interior materials, and improvements to the suspension. The 1.4 MPI engine, while not a powerhouse, was a common choice for buyers prioritizing fuel economy and lower running costs. It played a crucial role in making the León accessible to a wider range of customers.
Engine & Performance
The SEAT León II 1.4 MPI is powered by a 1.4-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated CGGB. This naturally aspirated engine produces 85 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 97.36 lb-ft of torque at 3800 rpm. While these figures aren’t substantial, they provide adequate power for everyday driving. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a compression ratio of 10.5:1. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 61.2 hp/l. Performance is modest, with a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration time of 13.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 106.88 mph (172 km/h). The engine is coupled with a five-speed manual transmission, directing power to the front wheels. The weight-to-power ratio is 13.8 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 8.9 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The SEAT León II is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. The facelifted model features a more aggressive front fascia with a redesigned grille and headlights. The interior was updated with improved materials and a more modern dashboard layout. The León II offers seating for five passengers and provides a reasonable amount of cargo space. The trunk capacity ranges from 12.04 cubic feet (341 liters) with the rear seats up to 41.18 cubic feet (1166 liters) with the rear seats folded down. Standard features typically included ABS, power steering, and a basic audio system. Safety features were in line with contemporary standards for the compact hatchback segment. The vehicle’s dimensions are 169.88 inches in length, 69.61 inches in width, and 57.44 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 101.5 inches.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon II (1P, facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 MPI (85 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13 sec |
| Maximum speed | 172 km/h (106.88 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 85 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 3800 rpm (97.36 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CGGB |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.8 l (2.96 US qt | 2.46 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1176 kg (2592.64 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1746 kg (3849.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 341 l (12.04 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1166 l (41.18 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 620 kg (1366.87 lbs.) |
| Length | 4315 mm (169.88 in.) |
| Width | 1768 mm (69.61 in.) |
| Height | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2578 mm (101.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1523 mm (59.96 in.) |
| Front overhang | 949 mm (37.36 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 788 mm (31.02 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15; 6.5 J x 16 |
The SEAT León II 1.4 MPI, while not a performance leader, offered a compelling package of practicality, affordability, and style. It remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for those seeking a reliable and economical hatchback.
