The SEAT León III 1.4 TGI is a compact hatchback produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT from 2013 to 2016. Part of the third generation of the León, this model is notable for its availability with a bi-fuel engine, capable of running on both gasoline and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). While SEAT is a significant player in the European automotive market, particularly in Spain, Germany, and the UK, the León was not officially sold in the United States. This model aimed to provide a more environmentally friendly and economically viable option for European drivers, capitalizing on the growing CNG infrastructure in several countries. The 1.4 TGI variant, producing 110 horsepower, represented a balance between performance and fuel efficiency within the León III lineup.
SEAT León III 1.4 TGI: An Overview
The SEAT León III, launched in 2012, represented a significant step forward for the brand, moving towards a more mature and sophisticated design language. The third generation benefited from the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, resulting in a lighter, more rigid, and more versatile vehicle. The 1.4 TGI model specifically targeted environmentally conscious consumers, offering a reduced carbon footprint compared to conventional gasoline-powered vehicles. The availability of CNG as a fuel source allowed drivers to take advantage of lower fuel costs and government incentives offered in many European nations. The inclusion of a Start/Stop system further enhanced fuel economy in urban driving conditions.
Engine & Performance
The SEAT León III 1.4 TGI is powered by a 1.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine (CPWA engine code) that produces 110 horsepower at 4800-6000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-3500 rpm. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to optimize performance and efficiency. The engine’s ability to run on both gasoline and CNG provides flexibility, with the CNG system automatically switching to gasoline when the CNG tank is depleted. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.9 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.4 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 194 km/h (120.55 mph). The power-to-weight ratio is 12.4 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 6.8 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The SEAT León III 1.4 TGI is a five-door hatchback with a sleek and modern design. The exterior styling features sharp lines, a distinctive front grille, and sculpted body panels. Inside, the cabin offers a comfortable and functional environment with seating for five passengers. Key features include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), a steering rack and pinion system, and a Start & Stop system for improved fuel economy. The trunk offers 275 liters (9.71 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1105 liters (39.02 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. 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, with a wheelbase of 2636 mm (103.78 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TGI (110 Hp) start/stop |
| Start of production | November, 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 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) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 124 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 194 km/h (120.55 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4800-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CPWA |
| Engine displacement | 1395 cm3 (85.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| 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 | 1359 kg (2996.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 481 kg (1060.42 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 275 l (9.71 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1105 l (39.02 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 | 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The SEAT León III 1.4 TGI represented a practical and environmentally conscious option for European drivers seeking a compact hatchback. Its bi-fuel capability, combined with the efficiency of the MQB platform and modern engine technology, made it a compelling choice in its segment.
