The SEAT León II (1P) 1.4 TSI (125 Hp) is a compact hatchback that was produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT between 2005 and 2012. The 1.4 TSI variant, specifically produced from 2007 to 2009, represented a significant step forward in engine technology for the model, offering a blend of performance and fuel efficiency. While SEAT is now part of the Volkswagen Group, the León was originally intended to be a more affordable and sporty alternative to Volkswagen’s offerings, primarily targeted at the European market. The second-generation León, designated 1P, aimed to elevate the brand’s image with improved build quality, design, and driving dynamics. This model competed with vehicles like the Ford Focus, Opel Astra, and Renault Mégane.
SEAT León II (1P) 1.4 TSI: An Overview
The León II represented a substantial redesign from its predecessor, moving towards a more mature and sophisticated aesthetic. The 1.4 TSI engine was a key component of this evolution, utilizing direct injection and turbocharging to deliver a respectable 125 horsepower. This engine was part of Volkswagen Group’s new generation of turbocharged petrol engines, known for their responsiveness and efficiency. The 1P generation León was praised for its handling and overall driving experience, making it a popular choice for drivers seeking a practical yet engaging compact car.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the SEAT León II (1P) 1.4 TSI is a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated CAXC. This engine employs direct fuel injection and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler, allowing it to produce 125 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 155 Nm (114.32 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The power-to-liter ratio is an impressive 89.9 hp/l. This engine delivers a balance between performance and fuel economy, enabling a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.8 seconds and a top speed of 197 km/h (122.41 mph). Calculated 0-60 mph acceleration is 9.3 seconds. The engine’s transverse front-engine layout contributes to its balanced handling characteristics. The 5-speed manual transmission provides drivers with direct control over the powertrain. Fuel consumption figures are rated at 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg) in urban conditions, 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle, and 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg) combined. The engine meets Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The SEAT León II (1P) is a five-door hatchback with a practical and stylish design. Its dimensions include a length of 4315 mm (169.88 in), a width of 1768 mm (69.61 in), and a height of 1458 mm (57.4 in). The wheelbase measures 2578 mm (101.5 in). The car offers seating for five passengers and a trunk (boot) space of 341 liters (12.04 cu. ft.). The interior design focused on providing a comfortable and functional space for both driver and passengers. Safety features, typical for vehicles of this era, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The suspension system consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and a torsion beam at the rear, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The steering utilizes a rack and pinion system with electric power steering for ease of use. The vehicle rides on 205/55 R16 tires with 16-inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon II (1P) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (125 Hp) |
| Start of production | November, 2007 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg) |
| 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 | 197 km/h (122.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4000 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CAXC |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.3 l (3.49 US qt | 2.9 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1249 kg (2753.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1819 kg (4010.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 341 l (12.04 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 710 kg (1565.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4315 mm (169.88 in.) |
| Width | 1768 mm (69.61 in.) |
| Height | 1458 mm (57.4 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2578 mm (101.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1525-1533 mm (60.04 – 60.35 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1509-1517 mm (59.41 – 59.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
