The SEAT León II (1P) is a compact hatchback produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT from 2005 to 2012. The model underwent a significant facelift in 2009, introducing revised styling, updated technology, and refined engine options. This article focuses on the 1.6 TDI CR (105 Hp) DPF variant produced from 2009 to 2012. While SEAT is now part of the Volkswagen Group, the León II represented a key model in establishing SEAT’s independent design language and appealing to a European market seeking stylish and practical compact cars. Unlike many models, the León II was not widely sold in North America; its significance lies in its popularity and impact within the European automotive landscape.
SEAT León II (1P) 1.6 TDI CR: Overview
The 1.6 TDI CR variant of the León II was positioned as an economical and efficient option within the range. It catered to buyers prioritizing fuel economy and lower running costs. The “CR” designation indicates the use of Common Rail direct injection technology, enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. The inclusion of a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) further underscored SEAT’s commitment to meeting increasingly stringent European emission standards. This model competed with other popular European compact hatchbacks like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the León II 1.6 TDI CR is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated CAYC. This engine produces 105 horsepower (Hp) at 4400 rpm and 250 Newton-meters (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 2500 rpm. The Common Rail direct injection system delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure, optimizing combustion and improving efficiency. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by forcing more air into the engine. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 12.3 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 5.2 kg/Nm. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission.
Design & Features
The SEAT León II is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. The 2009 facelift brought a more aggressive front fascia, redesigned headlights, and a revised grille, giving the car a more contemporary appearance. Inside, the León II offers seating for five passengers and a usable cargo space ranging from 341 liters (12.04 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1166 liters (41.18 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Key features of this model included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electric power steering, and a McPherson strut front suspension paired with an independent multi-link rear suspension for improved handling and ride comfort. Safety features were becoming increasingly important during this period, and the León II offered a reasonable level of protection for its occupants. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4315 mm (169.88 in) in length, 1768 mm (69.61 in) in width, and 1459 mm (57.44 in) in height. The wheelbase measures 2578 mm (101.5 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon II (1P, facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI CR (105 Hp) DPF |
| Start of production | 2009 year |
| End of production | 2012 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CAYC |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1290 kg (2843.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1860 kg (4100.6 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%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 680 kg (1499.14 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.) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
The SEAT León II 1.6 TDI CR represented a compelling package for European buyers seeking a fuel-efficient, practical, and stylish compact hatchback. Its combination of a refined diesel engine, comfortable interior, and modern features ensured its success in a competitive market segment.
