The SEAT León is a compact car manufactured by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT since 1996. The second generation, known as the León II (1P), was produced from 2005 to 2012. A significant facelift was introduced in 2009, bringing styling and technological updates. The FR trim level, as exemplified by the 2.0 TDI CR (170 Hp) DPF model, represents a sporty variant aimed at drivers seeking a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. While SEAT is a major player in the European automotive market, the León was never officially sold in the United States. This article details the specifications and characteristics of the 2009 facelifted SEAT León II FR 2.0 TDI CR, providing context for its role within the European automotive landscape.
SEAT León II (1P) FR 2.0 TDI CR: Overview
The León II FR 2.0 TDI CR (Common Rail) is a five-door hatchback positioned within the competitive compact segment in Europe. It caters to buyers looking for a stylish, practical, and relatively economical vehicle with a degree of sporting flair. The “FR” designation signifies a focus on a more dynamic driving experience, achieved through engine tuning, suspension upgrades, and distinctive aesthetic enhancements. The 2.0 TDI CR engine, equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to meet stringent emissions standards, was a popular choice for its blend of power and fuel economy.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the León II FR 2.0 TDI CR is a 1,968 cc (120.09 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine produces 170 horsepower (Hp) at 4,200 rpm and a substantial 350 Newton-meters (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1,800 rpm. The common rail direct injection system optimizes fuel delivery for improved efficiency and performance. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances power output. This powertrain configuration allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.2 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds, with a maximum speed of 214 km/h (132.97 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 7.8 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 3.8 kg/Nm, contributing to its responsive driving characteristics. The engine meets Euro 5 emission standards, reflecting the increasing environmental regulations of the time.
Design & Features
The SEAT León II (1P) facelift features a distinctive hatchback body style, offering a practical and versatile layout. The five-door configuration provides easy access to both front and rear seats. The FR trim level includes several visual enhancements, such as unique alloy wheels (7J x 17 or 7.5J x 18), a sportier front bumper, and subtle body kit elements. Inside, the FR model typically features sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and aluminum pedal trim. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ventilated front disc brakes, with disc brakes at the rear. The interior offers a comfortable seating capacity for five passengers, with a trunk (boot) space ranging from 341 liters (12.04 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1,166 liters (41.18 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The electric power steering provides a responsive and precise driving feel.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon II (1P, facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | FR 2.0 TDI CR (170 Hp) DPF |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 134 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 214 km/h (132.97 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1800 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CEGA |
| 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 | 16.5:1 |
| 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 | 1320 kg (2910.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1890 kg (4166.74 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 | 690 kg (1521.19 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4323 mm (170.2 in.) |
| Width | 1768 mm (69.61 in.) |
| Height | 1458 mm (57.4 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2578 mm (101.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1527 mm (60.12 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1508 mm (59.37 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 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 | 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
