The SEAT Leon III SC 1.2 TSI (86 Hp) is a compact coupe produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT between 2013 and 2016. Part of the third generation of the Leon, the SC (SportCoupe) variant offered a more streamlined, three-door body style compared to the five-door hatchback. While SEAT is now a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, the Leon has always been positioned as a more youthful and design-focused alternative to Volkswagen’s Golf, particularly in European markets. The 1.2 TSI engine option was aimed at providing a balance of fuel efficiency and reasonable performance for urban and everyday driving.
SEAT Leon III SC 1.2 TSI: Overview and Market Position
The Leon III SC represented a significant step forward for SEAT in terms of design and technology. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform – shared with models like the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf – it benefited from advancements in chassis engineering and safety features. The SC model specifically targeted buyers seeking a sportier aesthetic and a more engaging driving experience. In Europe, where the Leon was primarily sold, it competed with other compact coupes such as the Peugeot RCZ and the Renault Mégane Coupé. The 1.2 TSI engine, while not the most powerful in the Leon range, was a popular choice due to its low running costs and suitability for city driving.
Engine & Performance
The SEAT Leon III SC 1.2 TSI is powered by a 1.2-liter, turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated CJZB or CYVA, produces 86 horsepower at 4,300-5,300 rpm and 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,400 and 3,500 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and an intercooled turbocharger to enhance efficiency and responsiveness. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.8 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.2 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 178 km/h (110.6 mph). The engine’s relatively small displacement, combined with turbocharging, allows for a power output of 71.8 horsepower per liter. The weight-to-power ratio is 13.6 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.3 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonably efficient powertrain.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III SC is a three-door coupe characterized by its sleek, modern design. The SC variant features a sloping roofline and a more aggressive stance compared to the five-door hatchback. The interior is designed with a focus on driver ergonomics and features a minimalist dashboard layout. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features, crucial for modern vehicles, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and driver/passenger airbags. The rear seats fold down to increase cargo capacity, offering versatility for carrying passengers and luggage. The trunk offers 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1150 liters (40.61 cu. ft.) when folded. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4228 mm (166.46 in.) in length, 1810 mm (71.26 in.) in width, and 1446 mm (56.93 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2601 mm (102.4 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III SC |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TSI (86 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 178 km/h (110.6 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 86 Hp @ 4300-5300 rpm |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 1400-3500 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CJZB, CYVA |
| Engine displacement | 1197 cm3 (73.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| 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 | 1168 kg (2575 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 532 kg (1172.86 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1150 l (40.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4228 mm (166.46 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1446 mm (56.93 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2601 mm (102.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The SEAT Leon III SC 1.2 TSI offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a stylish, efficient, and relatively affordable compact coupe. Its combination of modern design, fuel-efficient engine, and practical features made it a popular choice in the European market.
