The SEAT Leon III SC (SportCoupe) facelift, produced from 2016 to 2018, represents a significant iteration of SEAT’s popular compact hatchback. While SEAT is a Spanish automobile manufacturer, it operates as part of the Volkswagen Group, and the Leon shares its platform with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, and Škoda Octavia. The “SC” designation denotes the three-door version, offering a sportier aesthetic compared to the five-door Leon hatchback. This particular model, equipped with a 1.2 TSI engine producing 110 horsepower, was primarily aimed at the European market, where fuel efficiency and nimble handling are highly valued. It served as an entry point into the Leon range, appealing to buyers seeking a stylish and economical vehicle.
SEAT Leon III SC 1.2 TSI: Overview and Market Position
The Leon III SC facelift built upon the success of the original Leon III, introducing revised styling, updated technology, and refined engine options. The facelift brought changes to the front and rear fascias, interior trim, and available equipment. The 1.2 TSI engine, while relatively small in displacement, utilized turbocharging and direct injection to deliver a respectable level of performance and impressive fuel economy. In Europe, this model competed with other compact hatchbacks like the Ford Focus, Opel Astra, and Peugeot 308, offering a compelling blend of value, style, and driving dynamics. The three-door configuration specifically targeted a younger demographic or those prioritizing a more coupe-like appearance.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the SEAT Leon III SC 1.2 TSI is a 1.2-liter, inline-four cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine, designated CYVB, produces 110 horsepower at 4,600-5,600 rpm and 175 Nm (129.07 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,400 and 4,000 rpm. The turbocharger and direct fuel injection system contribute to both its power output and efficiency. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is a notable 91.9 hp/l. 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 9.8 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 9.3 seconds. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 194 km/h (120.55 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions are 114 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards. The weight-to-power ratio of 10.2 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 6.4 kg/Nm contribute to a responsive driving experience.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III SC is a three-door hatchback, characterized by its sleek and sporty profile. The facelifted model features a more aggressive front grille, redesigned headlights with LED daytime running lights, and a revised bumper. The rear of the car received updated taillights and a new bumper design as well. The interior of the Leon SC is designed with a focus on functionality and modern aesthetics. It offers seating for five passengers, although rear passenger space is somewhat limited due to the coupe-like roofline. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Higher trim levels offered features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, climate control, and various driver-assistance systems. Safety features included ABS, and depending on the trim level, features like electronic stability control and multiple airbags were available. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III SC (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TSI (110 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 194 km/h (120.55 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4600-5600 rpm |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 1400-4000 rpm (129.07 lb.-ft. @ 1400-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CYVB |
| 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 | 1118 kg (2464.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1730 kg (3814 lbs.) |
| Max load | 612 kg (1349.23 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Length | 4247 mm (167.2 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1446 mm (56.93 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2601 mm (102.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1538-1549 mm (60.55 – 60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1508-1520 mm (59.37 – 59.84 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.2 m (33.46 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16; 17 |
