The SEAT Leon III Cupra 2.0 TSI (265 Hp) start/stop is a performance-oriented hatchback produced by the Spanish automaker SEAT between 2013 and 2015. As part of the third generation of the Leon, the Cupra variant represented the high-performance version of the model, aimed at enthusiasts seeking a blend of practicality and spirited driving. While SEAT vehicles were not officially sold in the United States during this period, the Leon, and particularly the Cupra, was a significant model in the European market, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Ford Focus ST. The Cupra offered a more aggressive styling package and a more powerful engine than the standard Leon models.
SEAT Leon III Cupra: A Performance Hatchback
The Leon III Cupra was designed to appeal to drivers who wanted a compact, versatile vehicle with genuine performance credentials. It built upon the foundation of the Leon hatchback, offering a sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, and a powerful turbocharged engine. The “start/stop” system, included as standard, reflected SEAT’s commitment to improving fuel efficiency, even in its performance models. The Cupra’s positioning within the SEAT lineup was crucial for enhancing the brand’s image and attracting a younger, more dynamic customer base in Europe.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Leon III Cupra 2.0 TSI was the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated CJXE. This engine produced 265 horsepower at 5,350-6,600 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,700 and 5,300 rpm. The engine featured direct injection and multi-port manifold injection, optimizing both power delivery and fuel efficiency. The transverse engine layout and turbocharger with intercooler contributed to the engine’s responsive nature. Power was delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. This configuration allowed for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 6.0 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds. The top speed was electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio of 5 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 3.8 kg/Nm further emphasized its performance capabilities.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III Cupra was a five-door hatchback with a sporty and aggressive design. Key styling elements included a distinctive front grille, sculpted bumpers, and a rear spoiler. The interior featured sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and aluminum pedals. The Cupra also included a range of standard features, such as air conditioning, power windows, and a sound system. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The vehicle offered a practical interior with a trunk (boot) space ranging from 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1210 liters (42.73 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The Leon III Cupra aimed to provide a balance between performance, practicality, and style, making it an appealing option for drivers seeking a versatile and engaging driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III |
| Type (Engine) | Cupra 2.0 TSI (265 Hp) start/stop |
| Start of production | October, 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 265 Hp @ 5350-6600 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1700-5300 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1700-5300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CJXE |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 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 | 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) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4271 mm (168.15 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1975 mm (77.76 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2631 mm (103.58 in.) |
| Front track | 1534 mm (60.39 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1508 mm (59.37 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | 225/40 R18; 225/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 8J x 19 |
