The SEAT Leon III, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2016, represents a significant evolution in the Spanish automaker’s compact hatchback offering. Positioned as a competitor to vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra, the Leon aimed to deliver a blend of sporty handling, modern design, and practical functionality. This iteration, powered by a 1.4 TSI engine producing 150 horsepower and paired with a dual-clutch DSG transmission, was a popular choice in European markets, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. While SEAT has a limited official presence in the United States, the Leon exemplifies the brand’s commitment to engineering and design within the Volkswagen Group.
SEAT Leon III (Facelift 2016) 1.4 TSI DSG: An Overview
The Leon III, launched in 2012, was the third generation of SEAT’s popular hatchback. The 2016 facelift brought styling updates, enhanced technology, and refined engine options. The 1.4 TSI model with the DSG transmission was a key variant, appealing to drivers seeking a responsive and efficient driving experience. The facelift focused on sharpening the car’s aesthetics with redesigned headlights, bumpers, and interior trim. This model year also saw improvements to the infotainment system and driver-assistance features, aligning the Leon with contemporary standards in the compact car segment.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the 2016 SEAT Leon 1.4 TSI DSG lies a 1.4-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated CZEA, utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler to deliver a power output of 150 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-3500 rpm. The engine’s relatively small displacement, combined with turbocharging, results in a power-to-liter ratio of 107.5 hp/l. The dual-clutch DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmission, featuring seven speeds, provides quick and seamless gear changes, contributing to the car’s brisk acceleration. The Leon 1.4 TSI DSG can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 8 seconds, and 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). The engine meets Euro 6 emission standards, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III (facelift 2016) is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. Its exterior design is characterized by sharp lines, a sporty stance, and a distinctive front grille. The facelifted model features redesigned headlights with LED daytime running lights, enhancing its visual appeal. Inside, the Leon offers a comfortable and well-appointed cabin with seating for five passengers. The interior design emphasizes functionality and ergonomics, with a focus on driver-focused controls. Standard features typically include air conditioning, power windows, and a basic infotainment system. Higher trim levels offer upgrades such as a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, climate control, and various driver-assistance systems like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The trunk space measures 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.), providing ample room for luggage and cargo. The fuel tank capacity is 50 liters (13.21 US gal).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 126.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 210.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CZEA |
| 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 | 1188 kg (2619.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1790 kg (3946.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 602 kg (1327.18 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Length | 4282 mm (168.58 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Height | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1534-1544 mm (60.39 – 60.79 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1508-1514 mm (59.37 – 59.61 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.3 m (33.79 ft.) |
| 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18 |
