The SEAT León III 1.6 TDI (105 Hp) start/stop is a compact hatchback that was produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT between 2012 and 2015. Part of the third generation of the León, this model was primarily aimed at the European market, where fuel efficiency and diesel engines were highly favored. While SEAT vehicles have limited official presence in the United States, the León III represents a significant step forward in SEAT’s design and engineering, offering a blend of practicality, performance, and economy within the competitive C-segment hatchback class.
SEAT León III 1.6 TDI: Overview and Market Position
The SEAT León III, launched in 2012, was a crucial model for SEAT, built upon the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform – a modular architecture shared with models like the Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, and Škoda Octavia. This platform allowed for significant improvements in weight reduction, interior space, and driving dynamics. The 1.6 TDI variant, powered by a 105 horsepower diesel engine, was a popular choice for buyers prioritizing fuel economy and lower running costs. In Europe, this model competed directly with vehicles like the Ford Focus, Opel Astra, and Peugeot 308, offering a stylish alternative with a focus on value.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the SEAT León III 1.6 TDI is a 1.6-liter, inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the CLHA. This engine produces 105 horsepower at 3000-4000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-2750 rpm. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, enhancing both power and efficiency. A key feature of this model is its Start/Stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary – such as at traffic lights – to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.7 seconds and a top speed of 192 km/h (119.3 mph). The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 16.2:1 is typical for diesel engines, contributing to its efficiency. The engine displaces 1598 cm³ (97.52 cu. in.) and delivers 65.7 horsepower per liter.
Design & Features
The SEAT León III boasts a modern and sporty design, characterized by sharp lines and a distinctive front grille. As a five-door hatchback, it offers a practical and versatile body style. The interior is well-appointed for its class, with a focus on ergonomics and build quality. Standard features typically included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), power windows, and central locking. The hatchback configuration provides a usable trunk space of 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.) which expands to 1210 liters (42.73 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features were also a priority, with the León III achieving good results in Euro NCAP crash tests. The vehicle’s steering utilizes a rack and pinion system for precise handling. The overall design aimed to appeal to a younger demographic, emphasizing style and driving enjoyment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (105 Hp) start/stop |
| Start of production | September, 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.3 l/100 km (71.3 US mpg, 85.6 UK mpg, 30.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 99 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp, 81.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 194.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 3000-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CLHA |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1286 kg (2835.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Max load | 514 kg (1133.18 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 | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The SEAT León III 1.6 TDI start/stop represented a compelling package for European buyers seeking an economical and practical hatchback. Its combination of fuel efficiency, modern design, and reasonable performance made it a popular choice in a highly competitive segment. While not officially sold in the US, it exemplifies SEAT’s commitment to producing vehicles that cater to the evolving needs of the automotive market.
