The SEAT Leon III SC 1.4 TGI 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 (Sport Coupe) variant offered a three-door body style, distinguishing itself from the five-door hatchback. This model was primarily marketed in Europe, where SEAT holds a significant presence, offering a fuel-efficient and sporty option within the competitive C-segment. The 1.4 TGI designation indicates a petrol engine capable of running on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), a feature aimed at reducing emissions and fuel costs, particularly attractive in European markets with established CNG infrastructure.
SEAT Leon III SC 1.4 TGI: Overview and Market Position
The Leon III SC represented a significant step forward for SEAT in terms of design, technology, and build quality. It was built on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, shared with models like the Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, and Škoda Octavia. This platform allowed for a lighter and more rigid chassis, contributing to improved handling and safety. The SC variant specifically targeted a younger demographic seeking a more dynamic and stylish alternative to the standard hatchback. The 1.4 TGI engine option was a key differentiator, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers and those seeking to minimize running costs. While not officially sold in the United States, the Leon III SC exemplifies the European preference for smaller, fuel-efficient vehicles with a focus on practicality and driving enjoyment.
Engine & Performance
The SEAT Leon III SC 1.4 TGI is powered by a 1.4-liter inline four-cylinder petrol engine, turbocharged and intercooled. This engine produces 110 horsepower (Hp) at 4800-6000 rpm and 200 Newton-meters (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-3500 rpm. The engine’s ability to run on both petrol and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is a defining characteristic. When running on CNG, the engine delivers comparable performance with reduced emissions. The engine features direct fuel injection, optimizing combustion efficiency and power delivery. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.9 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.4 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 194 km/h (120.55 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 12.4 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 6.8 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III SC is a three-door coupe, characterized by its sleek and sporty profile. The design language incorporates sharp lines and a distinctive front grille, reflecting SEAT’s evolving design aesthetic. The interior is designed with a driver-focused layout, featuring a modern dashboard and comfortable seating for five passengers. Key features include an integrated infotainment system, air conditioning, and a range of safety systems. The SC variant boasts a slightly more aggressive stance compared to the five-door model. The trunk offers 275 liters (9.71 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1105 liters (39.02 cu. ft.) when the seats are folded down. The vehicle incorporates a Start & Stop system to further improve fuel efficiency. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. 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, with a wheelbase of 2601 mm (102.4 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III SC |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TGI (110 Hp) start/stop |
| Start of production | November, 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 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) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 124 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 194 km/h (120.55 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4800-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CPWA |
| 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 | 1359 kg (2996.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 481 kg (1060.42 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 275 l (9.71 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1105 l (39.02 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 | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The SEAT Leon III SC 1.4 TGI represented a compelling offering in the European compact car market, blending style, efficiency, and practicality. Its CNG capability and modern features made it an attractive option for buyers seeking a responsible and enjoyable driving experience.
