The SEAT Leon III SC Cupra 2.0 TSI (290 Hp) DSG is a high-performance variant of the SEAT Leon III Sport Coupé, produced between 2015 and 2016. SEAT, a Spanish automobile manufacturer now owned by the Volkswagen Group, positioned the Leon as its competitor in the compact class, primarily targeting the European market. The “SC” designation denotes the Sport Coupé, a three-door body style offering a more driver-focused aesthetic. This Cupra model represents the performance pinnacle of the range, boasting a potent turbocharged engine and a dual-clutch transmission, designed to deliver a spirited driving experience. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding its specifications provides insight into the European hot hatch segment.
SEAT Leon III SC Cupra: A Performance Overview
The Leon III SC Cupra 2.0 TSI was engineered to appeal to enthusiasts seeking a blend of practicality and performance. It occupied a niche between mainstream compact hatchbacks and more focused, track-oriented performance cars. The Cupra trim level, historically used by SEAT for its performance models, signifies enhanced power, upgraded brakes, and a sport-tuned chassis. The three-door configuration further emphasizes its sporty character, offering a more direct connection to the driving experience compared to the five-door Leon.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Leon III SC Cupra lies the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated CJXH. This engine produces 290 horsepower at 5900-6400 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque available from 1700 to 5800 rpm. The engine utilizes direct injection and multi-port manifold injection, optimizing both power delivery and fuel efficiency. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by increasing air density. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) dual-clutch automatic transmission, known for its rapid and seamless gear changes. This powertrain combination allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 5.6 seconds, and a calculated 0-60 mph time of 5.3 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). The engine’s specific output is 146.2 horsepower per liter, demonstrating its high level of tuning. A Start & Stop system is included to improve fuel economy during urban driving.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III SC Cupra is a three-door coupe, offering seating for five passengers. Its exterior design features sporty styling cues, including a distinctive front grille, aggressive bumpers, and a rear spoiler. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4236 mm (166.77 in) in length, 1810 mm (71.26 in) in width, and 1423 mm (56.02 in) in height. The wheelbase measures 2596 mm (102.2 in). Inside, the Cupra model features sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and unique trim elements. Standard safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. 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 down. The fuel tank capacity is 50 liters (13.21 US gal).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III SC |
| Type (Engine) | Cupra 2.0 TSI (290 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 290 Hp @ 5900-6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 146.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1700-5800 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CJXH |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1320 kg (2910.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 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) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4236 mm (166.77 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1975 mm (77.76 in.) |
| Height | 1423 mm (56.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2596 mm (102.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1536 mm (60.47 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | 225/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 8J x 19 |
The SEAT Leon III SC Cupra 2.0 TSI (290 Hp) DSG, while not available in the US market, represents a compelling example of European hot hatch engineering, offering a potent combination of performance, practicality, and style.
