The SEAT Leon III Cupra 2.0 TSI (280 Hp) DSG start/stop is a performance-oriented hatchback produced by the Spanish automaker SEAT between 2014 and 2015. As part of the third generation of the Leon, the Cupra variant represented the high-performance flagship of the range. While SEAT vehicles were not officially sold in the United States during this period, the Leon competed in the European market with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Ford Focus ST, offering a blend of practicality, sporty handling, and a turbocharged engine. The Cupra model specifically targeted enthusiasts seeking a more engaging driving experience than the standard Leon.
SEAT Leon III Cupra: A Performance Hatchback
The Leon III Cupra was designed to appeal to drivers who desired a compact, versatile vehicle with significant performance capabilities. It distinguished itself from other Leon models through its more aggressive styling, upgraded suspension, and powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. The inclusion of a dual-clutch DSG transmission and a start/stop system further enhanced its appeal by providing both quick gear changes and improved fuel efficiency. The Cupra was positioned as a premium offering within the Leon lineup, featuring enhanced interior appointments and a comprehensive suite of standard equipment.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Leon III Cupra 2.0 TSI lies a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated the EA888 / CJXA. This engine produces 280 horsepower at 5,600-6,500 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,700 and 5,600 rpm. The engine utilizes direct injection and multi-port manifold injection, coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler, to deliver a broad powerband and responsive acceleration. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed dual-clutch DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission. This transmission allows for rapid and seamless gear changes, contributing to the car’s sporty character. The Cupra achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 5.8 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 5.5 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). The engine’s specific output is 141.1 horsepower per liter, demonstrating its high level of tuning. The weight-to-power ratio of 4.8 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 3.8 kg/Nm further highlight the car’s performance credentials.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III Cupra is a five-door hatchback with a sporty and modern design. It features a distinctive front grille, aggressive bumpers, and a rear spoiler, differentiating it from the standard Leon models. The interior is designed with a driver-focused layout, featuring supportive sport seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Standard features included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system, and various safety systems such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The Cupra also offered optional features like navigation, parking sensors, and upgraded audio systems. The hatchback body style provides a practical level of versatility, with 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.) of trunk space that expands to 1,210 liters (42.73 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The car’s dimensions are 4,271 mm (168.15 in.) in length, 1,816 mm (71.5 in.) in width, and 1,435 mm (56.5 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2,631 mm (103.58 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III |
| Type (Engine) | Cupra 2.0 TSI (280 Hp) DSG start/stop |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 8.4-8.5 l/100 km (28 – 27.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 280 Hp @ 5600-6500 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1700-5600 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CJXA |
| 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 | 1346 kg (2967.42 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1910 kg (4210.83 lbs.) |
| Max load | 564 kg (1243.41 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 | 1536 mm (60.47 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.5 m (34.45 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| 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, 340×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 310×22 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 8J x 19 |
