The SEAT León II (1P) is a compact hatchback produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT from 2005 to 2012. This second generation of the León, based on the Volkswagen Group’s A5 platform (shared with the Volkswagen Golf Mk5, Audi A3 8P, and Škoda Octavia A5), represented a significant step forward in terms of design, technology, and overall refinement for the brand. The 2009 facelift brought styling updates and revised engine options, including the 1.6 MPI (102 Hp) Ethanol model, which was primarily sold in European markets where ethanol fuel was readily available. This version aimed to offer a more environmentally conscious and potentially cost-effective alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
SEAT León II (1P) 1.6 MPI Ethanol: Overview
The SEAT León II 1.6 MPI Ethanol, produced between 2011 and 2012, was specifically engineered to run on petrol and E85 ethanol fuel, or any blend thereof. This flex-fuel capability was a key selling point in regions promoting biofuel usage. While not officially sold in the United States, the León II was a popular choice in Europe as a practical, stylish, and relatively affordable compact car. It competed with models like the Ford Focus, Opel Astra, and Peugeot 308, offering a distinctive Spanish flair and a focus on driving dynamics within the Volkswagen Group’s portfolio.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the León II 1.6 MPI Ethanol is a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine, designated CMXA. This naturally aspirated engine produces 102 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 148 Nm (109.16 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. The engine’s design allows it to operate efficiently on both gasoline and ethanol, with the engine control unit (ECU) automatically adjusting fuel delivery based on the fuel composition detected. The power-to-liter ratio is 63.9 hp/l. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11.7 seconds and a top speed of 184 km/h (114.33 mph). A 0-60 mph time is calculated at 11.1 seconds. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. The weight-to-power ratio is 11.8 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 8.1 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The SEAT León II is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. The 2009 facelift brought a revised front fascia with a more prominent grille, redesigned headlights, and a reshaped bumper. The interior featured a functional and modern design, with a focus on ergonomics and build quality. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Safety features, crucial for a vehicle of this era, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and front airbags. The León II offered a trunk capacity of 341 liters (12.04 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 1166 liters (41.18 cu. ft.) when folded down. The vehicle’s design prioritized a sporty aesthetic, appealing to a younger demographic. The electric power steering contributed to ease of maneuverability.
Technology and Ethanol Compatibility
The key technological feature of this León variant is its flex-fuel capability. The engine and fuel system are designed to handle the corrosive properties of ethanol, and the ECU is programmed to optimize combustion for varying ethanol-gasoline blends. This allows drivers to take advantage of potentially lower fuel costs and reduced emissions when using E85, depending on local pricing and regulations. The Euro 5 emission standard compliance demonstrates a commitment to reducing environmental impact. The McPherson strut front suspension and independent multi-link rear suspension contribute to a comfortable ride and responsive handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon II (1P, facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 MPI (102 Hp) Ethanol |
| Start of production | 2011 year |
| End of production | 2012 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 3800 rpm (109.16 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CMXA |
| Engine displacement | 1595 cm3 (97.33 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77.4 mm (3.05 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1205 kg (2656.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1775 kg (3913.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 341 l (12.04 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1166 l (41.18 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 (8%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Length | 4315 mm (169.88 in.) |
| Width | 1768 mm (69.61 in.) |
| Height | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2578 mm (101.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1523 mm (59.96 in.) |
| Front overhang | 949 mm (37.36 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 788 mm (31.02 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | 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 | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
