The SEAT Leon III SC 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) start/stop is a compact coupe produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT between 2012 and 2015. Part of the third generation of the Leon, the SC (SportCoupe) variant offered a more aggressively styled, three-door body style aimed at a younger demographic. While SEAT is now a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, the Leon has always been positioned as a more affordable and dynamically focused alternative to Volkswagen’s Golf, particularly in European markets. The 2.0 TDI model, equipped with a diesel engine and start/stop technology, was a popular choice for its fuel efficiency and performance.
SEAT Leon III SC 2.0 TDI: Overview
The Leon III SC represented a significant step forward for SEAT in terms of design, technology, and build quality. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform – shared with models like the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf – it benefited from advanced engineering and a focus on driving dynamics. The SC variant, with its three-door configuration, emphasized a sportier aesthetic and appealed to buyers seeking a more individualistic vehicle. The 2.0 TDI engine provided a balance between power and economy, making it suitable for both urban commuting and longer journeys.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Leon III SC 2.0 TDI is a 1,968 cc (120.09 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine produces 150 horsepower (Hp) at 3,500-4,000 rpm and 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,750 and 3,000 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance 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 8.3 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). The inclusion of a Start & Stop system further contributes to fuel savings by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, such as at traffic lights.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III SC is a three-door coupe, offering seating for five passengers. Its exterior design is characterized by sharp lines, a sloping roofline, and a distinctive front grille. The SC variant features a more aggressive stance compared to the five-door Leon hatchback. Inside, the cabin is designed with a focus on functionality and driver engagement. The interior materials are of good quality for its class, and the layout is intuitive and user-friendly. Standard features typically included ABS (Anti-lock braking system), air conditioning, and a basic audio system. The trunk offers 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1,150 liters (40.61 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. The vehicle’s kerb weight is 1,285 kg (2,832.94 lbs), with a maximum weight of 1,810 kg (3,990.37 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III SC |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) start/stop |
| Start of production | October, 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.6 l/100 km (65.3 US mpg, 78.5 UK mpg, 27.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 106 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp, 116.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 249 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3500-4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750-3000 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CKFC, CRBC, CRLB, CRMB |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1285 kg (2832.94 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1810 kg (3990.37 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525 kg (1157.43 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 | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Drive wheel | 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 2.0 TDI offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a stylish, efficient, and engaging compact coupe. Its combination of a refined diesel engine, sporty design, and practical features made it a popular choice in the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, the Leon represents a significant example of SEAT’s evolution as a modern automotive brand.
