The SEAT León III 1.2 TSI (105 Hp) start/stop DSG is a front-wheel-drive hatchback that was produced between 2013 and 2014. Part of the third generation of the León, this model was primarily aimed at the European market, offering a blend of fuel efficiency, practicality, and modern technology within the compact class. While SEAT is a Spanish automobile manufacturer, it is owned by the Volkswagen Group, and the León shares its platform with other vehicles in the group, such as the Volkswagen Golf and Škoda Octavia. This particular variant, equipped with a 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and a dual-clutch DSG transmission, represented a key offering in SEAT’s lineup, focusing on lower running costs and ease of driving.
SEAT León III 1.2 TSI: Overview and Market Position
The third-generation SEAT León, launched in 2012, marked a significant step forward in terms of design, technology, and overall quality for the Spanish brand. The 1.2 TSI model, with its 105 horsepower output, was positioned as an entry-level option, appealing to buyers seeking a cost-effective and efficient hatchback. In Europe, where fuel prices are typically higher and city driving is prevalent, this model’s fuel economy and compact size were major selling points. The inclusion of start/stop technology and the DSG transmission further enhanced its appeal to environmentally conscious and convenience-focused drivers. Unlike many European models, the SEAT León was not widely sold in the North American market, limiting its recognition there.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the SEAT León III 1.2 TSI is a 1.2-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated CJZA, utilizes direct fuel injection and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to boost power and efficiency. It produces 105 horsepower at 4500-5500 rpm and 175 Nm (129.07 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1400 and 4000 rpm. This provides a reasonable balance of performance and fuel economy for everyday driving. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 87.7 hp/l. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission. This transmission offers quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to a more engaging driving experience and improved fuel efficiency. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10 seconds and a top speed of 191 km/h (118.68 mph). The 0-60 mph acceleration is calculated at 9.5 seconds.
Design & Features
The SEAT León III features a modern and sporty hatchback design. The 5-door body style provides practical access to the interior, while the sleek lines and sculpted body panels give it a contemporary appearance. The interior is designed with a focus on functionality and ergonomics, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. Key features of this model include the start/stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary to save fuel, and the DSG transmission for effortless gear changes. Safety features, standard for the era, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis design. The trunk (boot) space is a practical 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.). The vehicle’s dimensions are 4263 mm (167.83 in.) in length, 1816 mm (71.5 in.) in width, and 1459 mm (57.44 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2636 mm (103.78 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TSI (105 Hp) start/stop DSG |
| Start of production | January, 2013 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 112 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 191 km/h (118.68 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp, 91.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 152.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 4500-5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 1400-4000 rpm (129.07 lb.-ft. @ 1400-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CJZA |
| Engine displacement | 1197 cm3 (73.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1147 kg (2528.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1730 kg (3814 lbs.) |
| Max load | 583 kg (1285.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load (8%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (without brakes) | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Length | 4263 mm (167.83 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1975 mm (77.76 in.) |
| Height | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Front overhang | 853 mm (33.58 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 774 mm (30.47 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 144 mm (5.67 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.2 m (33.46 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 288×25 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 253×10 mm |
| 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; 6.5J x 16 |
The SEAT León III 1.2 TSI (105 Hp) start/stop DSG, while not a high-performance model, offered a compelling package for buyers seeking an efficient, practical, and well-equipped hatchback in the European market. Its combination of fuel-saving technologies and a comfortable driving experience made it a popular choice within its segment.
