The SEAT León II (1P), particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2009, represents a significant step forward for the Spanish automaker. Positioned as a compact hatchback, the León aimed to compete directly with established European rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. While SEAT is a brand not widely sold in the United States, the León was a crucial model for the company within Europe, offering a blend of sporty styling, practical functionality, and competitive pricing. The 2.0 TDI CR (140 Hp) DPF DSG variant, produced from 2010 to 2012, combined a fuel-efficient diesel engine with a sophisticated dual-clutch transmission, making it a popular choice for drivers seeking both performance and economy.
SEAT León II (1P) 2.0 TDI CR: A Detailed Overview
The León II, launched in 2005, was the second generation of SEAT’s compact hatchback. The 2009 facelift brought revised styling, improved interior materials, and updated technology. The 2.0 TDI CR model featured a common rail diesel engine, offering improved refinement and power delivery compared to earlier iterations. The “CR” designation signifies the common rail direct injection system, a key technology for modern diesel engines. The inclusion of a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) addressed growing environmental concerns, while the Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) provided quick and seamless gear changes.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the León 2.0 TDI CR lies a 1,968 cc (120.09 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine produces 140 horsepower (Hp) at 4,200 rpm and a substantial 320 Newton-meters (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. This torque output provides strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 71.1 Hp/l, demonstrating a good level of efficiency. The engine utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.3 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in a calculated 8.8 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 205 km/h (127.38 mph). The engine meets Euro 5 emission standards, reflecting SEAT’s commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Design & Features
The SEAT León II (1P) 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 rear bumper. The interior was updated with improved materials and a more modern dashboard layout. The vehicle comfortably seats five passengers. Key features of this model include the DSG automatic transmission, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a particulate filter to reduce emissions. The León’s design prioritized a sporty aesthetic, appealing to a younger demographic. The trunk offers 341 liters (12.04 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1,166 liters (41.18 cu. ft.) when folded down, providing ample cargo capacity for everyday use. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4,315 mm (169.88 in.) in length, 1,768 mm (69.61 in.) in width, and 1,459 mm (57.44 in.) in height.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon II (1P, facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI CR (140 Hp) DPF DSG |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CFHC |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1325 kg (2921.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1895 kg (4177.76 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) |
| Length | 4315 mm (169.88 in.) |
| Width | 1768 mm (69.61 in.) |
| Height | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2578 mm (101.5 in.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17 |
The SEAT León II (1P) 2.0 TDI CR DPF DSG represents a well-rounded package for European drivers. Its combination of fuel efficiency, performance, practicality, and sporty styling made it a competitive offering in the compact hatchback segment. While not officially sold in the US market, it exemplifies the engineering and design capabilities of SEAT within the broader Volkswagen Group.
