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 is particularly prominent in the European market. The Leon, in its third generation, aimed to blend practicality, sporty styling, and efficient engine options. The “SC” designation denotes the three-door version, offering a more coupe-like profile compared to the five-door Leon hatchback. This particular model, equipped with a 1.6 TDI engine producing 115 horsepower and a dual-clutch DSG transmission, was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a balance between fuel economy and driving enjoyment.
SEAT Leon III SC 1.6 TDI (115 Hp) DSG: Overview
The Leon III SC facelift built upon the success of the original third-generation Leon, introducing styling refinements and updated technology. The 1.6 TDI variant with the DSG gearbox was a common choice for European drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency and lower running costs. It occupied a competitive space within the compact hatchback segment, facing rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. The facelift brought subtle changes to the exterior, including revised headlights and bumpers, along with interior enhancements focused on improving the overall user experience.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the SEAT Leon III SC 1.6 TDI is a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine, designated DDYA. This engine produces 115 horsepower at 3250-4000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-3250 rpm. The engine features a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. The power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmission, providing quick and smooth gear changes. This combination allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.5 seconds and a top speed of 197 km/h (122.41 mph). The engine’s design prioritizes fuel economy, achieving a combined fuel consumption of 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 108 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III SC is a three-door hatchback characterized by its sporty and dynamic design. The facelifted model features a more aggressive front fascia with redesigned headlights and a revised grille. The sloping roofline and shorter wheelbase compared to the five-door version contribute to its coupe-like appearance. Inside, the cabin is designed with a focus on functionality and driver engagement. The interior materials and trim levels vary depending on the specific trim package. Standard features typically include air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Safety features, crucial in modern vehicles, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and driver and passenger airbags. The SC model offers a trunk capacity of 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.), providing adequate space for everyday use. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4247 mm (167.2 in) in length, 1810 mm (71.26 in) in width, and 1446 mm (56.93 in) in height.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III SC (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (115 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 57.4 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 68.9 UK mpg |
| CO2 emissions | 108 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 197 km/h (122.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3250-4000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3250 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DDYA |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| 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 | 1186 kg (2614.68 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 584 kg (1287.5 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%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 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 | 1534-1549 mm (60.39 – 60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1504-1520 mm (59.21 – 59.84 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.2 m (33.46 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| 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 |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16; 17; 18 |
