The SEAT León is a compact car manufactured by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT since 1996. Initially conceived as a replacement for the SEAT Ibiza in the compact segment, it has evolved into a distinct model, offering a more sophisticated and practical alternative. The third generation, launched in 2012 and receiving a significant facelift in 2016, represents a refinement of the León’s core strengths – dynamic handling, efficient engines, and a stylish design. The SEAT León III (facelift 2016) FR 1.4 TSI (125 Hp) is a performance-oriented variant within this generation, aimed at drivers seeking a blend of fuel economy and engaging driving dynamics. While SEAT is not a major player in the US market, the León is a popular choice in Europe, competing with models like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra.
Engine & Performance
The FR 1.4 TSI variant of the León III is powered by a 1.4-liter, turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated CZCA, produces 125 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1400 and 4000 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler contribute to both power output and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. This configuration allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.1 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 8.6 seconds, with a maximum speed of 203 km/h (126.14 mph). The engine’s direct injection system and turbocharging contribute to a combined fuel consumption of 5.2 liters per 100 kilometers (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 120 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards. The weight-to-power ratio is 9.3 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 4.6 kg/Nm, indicating a relatively efficient powertrain.
Design & Features
The SEAT León III (facelift 2016) is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. The facelift brought revised styling to the front and rear, including new headlights, a redesigned grille, and updated bumpers. The FR trim level adds sporty styling cues, such as unique alloy wheels (17 or 18 inch options), a lowered suspension, and distinctive interior trim. The interior is designed with a driver-focused layout, featuring comfortable seating for five passengers. Standard features include air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features, crucial in modern vehicles, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a comprehensive airbag system. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 275 liters (9.71 cu. ft.), expandable with the rear seats folded down. The overall dimensions of the vehicle are 4281 mm (168.54 in.) in length, 1816 mm (71.5 in.) in width, and 1444 mm (56.85 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2634 mm (103.7 in.).
Chassis and Handling
The León III utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance, offering responsive and accurate control. Ventilated discs are used for the front brakes, while solid discs are used at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. Tire sizes range from 225/45 R17 to 225/40 R18, depending on the chosen wheel size.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | FR 1.4 TSI (125 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 45.2 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 54.3 UK mpg |
| CO2 emissions | 120 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 203 km/h (126.14 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1400-4000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1400-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CZCA |
| 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 | 1158 kg (2552.95 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 612 kg (1349.23 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 275 l (9.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4281 mm (168.54 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1975 mm (77.76 in.) |
| Height | 1444 mm (56.85 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2634 mm (103.7 in.) |
| Front track | 1534-1538 mm (60.39 – 60.55 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1511-1512 mm (59.49 – 59.53 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.3 m (33.79 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
The SEAT León III (facelift 2016) FR 1.4 TSI (125 Hp) represents a well-rounded package for drivers seeking a practical, efficient, and enjoyable compact hatchback. Its combination of a responsive engine, engaging handling, and stylish design made it a popular choice in the European market.
