The SEAT León II (1P), particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2009, represents a significant step forward for the Spanish automaker. Positioned as a compact hatchback, the León aimed to compete directly with established European rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. While SEAT is not a major presence in the North American market, the León was a crucial model for the brand within Europe, offering a blend of style, practicality, and value. The 1.6 TDI CR (105 Hp) DPF DSG variant, produced from 2009 to 2012, was a popular choice, emphasizing fuel efficiency and refined performance through the use of common rail diesel technology and a dual-clutch gearbox.
SEAT León II (1P) 1.6 TDI CR: A Detailed Overview
The León II, launched in 2005, was the second generation of SEAT’s compact offering. The 2009 facelift brought revised styling, improved interior materials, and updated engine options, including the 1.6 TDI CR. This model focused on delivering a balance between everyday usability and a more engaging driving experience, appealing to a broad customer base seeking a modern and efficient hatchback.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the León 1.6 TDI CR is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated CAYC. This engine produces 105 horsepower at 4400 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 2500 rpm. The ‘CR’ in the name denotes the use of Common Rail direct fuel injection, a technology that improves fuel atomization and allows for more precise control over combustion, resulting in increased efficiency and reduced emissions. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG), an automated manual transmission known for its quick and smooth gear changes. This combination allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11.7 seconds and a top speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 12.5 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 5.2 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The SEAT León II (1P) facelift features a distinctive five-door hatchback body style. The design language emphasizes sporty lines and a relatively low-slung profile. The 2009 facelift brought changes to the front fascia, including a revised grille and headlights, giving the car a more contemporary appearance. Inside, the León offers seating for five passengers and a practical cargo area. The trunk provides 341 liters (12.04 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1166 liters (41.18 cu. ft.) when folded down. Key features of this model include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electric power steering, and a McPherson strut front suspension paired with an independent multi-link rear suspension for improved ride comfort and handling. Safety features were becoming increasingly important during this period, and the León II offered a solid level of protection for its occupants. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4315 mm (169.88 in.) in length, 1768 mm (69.61 in.) in width, and 1459 mm (57.44 in.) in height.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon II (1P, facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI CR (105 Hp) DPF DSG |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 123 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CAYC |
| 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.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1310 kg (2888.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 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%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 690 kg (1521.19 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.) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
The SEAT León II (1P) 1.6 TDI CR DPF DSG, while not officially sold in the United States, represents a well-rounded and efficient compact hatchback that was popular in Europe. Its combination of a fuel-efficient diesel engine, a responsive DSG transmission, and a practical design made it a compelling choice for buyers seeking a versatile and economical vehicle.
