The SEAT Leon III (facelift 2016) 1.5 TSI (130 Hp) is a compact hatchback produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT from 2018 to 2020. As part of the Leon’s third generation, this facelift brought styling updates and powertrain refinements to an already popular model within the European market. The Leon competes in the highly contested C-segment, facing rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. While SEAT vehicles are not officially sold in the United States, the Leon represents a significant offering in Europe, known for its blend of sporty handling, practical design, and value for money.
SEAT Leon III (Facelift 2016) 1.5 TSI: Overview
The Leon III, launched in 2012, was a pivotal model for SEAT, marking a shift towards more sophisticated and design-focused vehicles. The 2016 facelift further enhanced its appeal with revised exterior styling, an upgraded interior, and the introduction of new technology. The 1.5 TSI variant, powered by a turbocharged gasoline engine, became a key offering in the lineup, balancing performance with fuel efficiency. This model aimed to appeal to drivers seeking a practical and enjoyable daily driver with a touch of sporty character.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the SEAT Leon III 1.5 TSI is a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine produces 130 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1400 and 4000 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and an intercooled turbocharger to optimize performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. The combination allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.4 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 8.9 seconds, with a maximum speed of 203 km/h (126.14 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 9 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 5.8 kg/Nm, contributing to a responsive driving experience. The 1.5 TSI engine is known for its relatively good fuel economy, achieving combined fuel consumption figures between 4.9 and 5.1 liters per 100 kilometers (48-46.1 US mpg).
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III (facelift 2016) is a five-door hatchback with a sleek and modern design. The facelift brought changes to the front fascia, including redesigned headlights with LED daytime running lights, a new grille, and a revised bumper. The rear of the car also received updated taillights and a redesigned bumper. Inside, the cabin features a driver-focused layout with a central touchscreen infotainment system. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, and a multi-function steering wheel. Safety features, crucial in modern vehicles, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a range of airbags. The Leon offers a practical interior with ample space for passengers and luggage. The trunk (boot) space ranges 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 vehicle’s dimensions are 4282 mm (168.58 in.) in length, 1816 mm (71.5 in.) in width, and 1459 mm (57.44 in.) in height.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TSI (130 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.3-6.5 l/100 km (37.3 – 36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1-4.3 l/100 km (57.4 – 54.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9-5.1 l/100 km (48 – 46.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 111-116 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 203 km/h (126.14 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1400-4000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DACA, DPBA |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.9 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1164 kg (2566.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1780 kg (3924.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 616 kg (1358.05 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.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4282 mm (168.58 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1975 mm (77.76 in.) |
| Height | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1534-1549 mm (60.39 – 60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1504-1520 mm (59.21 – 59.84 in.) |
| Front overhang | 861 mm (33.9 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 785 mm (30.91 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
The SEAT Leon III (facelift 2016) 1.5 TSI (130 Hp) remains a popular choice in the European used car market, offering a compelling combination of practicality, efficiency, and driving enjoyment. Its relatively modern technology and stylish design continue to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
