The SEAT Leon III 1.2 TSI (110 Hp) start/stop DSG is a compact hatchback produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT between 2014 and 2016. Part of the third generation of the Leon, this model was primarily aimed at the European market, where fuel efficiency and practicality are highly valued. While SEAT vehicles have limited official presence in the United States, the Leon represents a significant offering in the competitive European C-segment, rivaling models like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. This particular variant, equipped with a 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and a dual-clutch DSG transmission, focused on providing a balance between performance and economy.
SEAT Leon III 1.2 TSI: Overview and Market Position
The Leon III, launched in 2012, marked a significant step forward for SEAT in terms of design, technology, and build quality. It was built on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, shared with models like the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf, providing a solid foundation for handling and refinement. The 1.2 TSI variant was positioned as an entry-level option, appealing to buyers seeking a relatively affordable and economical hatchback. The inclusion of start/stop technology and a DSG transmission further enhanced its appeal to environmentally conscious drivers and those prioritizing convenience.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the SEAT Leon III 1.2 TSI is a 1.2-liter, inline-four cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine, designated CYVB, produces 110 horsepower at 4,600-5,600 rpm and 175 Nm (129.07 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,400 and 4,000 rpm. The turbocharger and direct fuel injection system contribute to a good balance of power and efficiency. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is a respectable 91.9 hp/l. 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, enhancing both performance and driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.2 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 9.7 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 191 km/h (118.68 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 11.2 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 7.1 kg/Nm contribute to a responsive driving feel.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III features a modern and sporty hatchback design. Its five-door body style offers practicality and accessibility. The exterior styling is characterized by sharp lines, a distinctive front grille, and sculpted body panels. Inside, the cabin is designed with a focus on functionality and ergonomics. The interior offers seating for five passengers and provides a reasonable amount of space for both passengers and luggage. The trunk (boot) space ranges from 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1,210 liters (42.73 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The car’s kerb weight is 1235 kg (2722.71 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs). The Leon III’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, with a wheelbase of 2636 mm (103.78 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TSI (110 Hp) start/stop DSG |
| Start of production | April, 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| 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) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 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 | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 191 km/h (118.68 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4600-5600 rpm |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 1400-4000 rpm (129.07 lb.-ft. @ 1400-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CYVB |
| 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1235 kg (2722.71 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs.) |
| Max load | 515 kg (1135.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1210 l (42.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4263 mm (167.83 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Height | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
The SEAT Leon III 1.2 TSI start/stop DSG offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a practical, efficient, and reasonably well-equipped hatchback. Its combination of a turbocharged engine, dual-clutch transmission, and modern design contributed to its success in a highly competitive market segment.
