The SEAT León II (1P) facelift, produced from 2009 to 2010, represents a significant update to the second generation of SEAT’s compact hatchback. While SEAT is a Spanish automobile manufacturer, the León was primarily developed for the European market, offering a blend of practicality, sporty handling, and value. The 1.9 TDI PD (105 Hp) variant, equipped with a pump-nozzle diesel engine, was a popular choice for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and reasonable performance. This model competed with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra, offering a distinctive Spanish flair within the crowded European C-segment.
SEAT León II (1P) 1.9 TDI PD: An Overview
The León II, and specifically the 2009 facelift, aimed to refine the original model with styling updates, improved interior materials, and enhanced equipment levels. The 1.9 TDI PD engine was a mainstay of the SEAT lineup, known for its durability and economy. The “PD” designation refers to the pump-nozzle direct injection system, a technology that improved combustion efficiency and power delivery compared to older diesel injection methods. This version of the León was a five-door hatchback, designed to appeal to families and individuals seeking a versatile and economical vehicle.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the SEAT León II 1.9 TDI PD is its 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, designated BXE, produces 105 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1,900 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, the torque output provides adequate acceleration and strong mid-range responsiveness. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, enhancing power and efficiency. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.3 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 10.7 seconds. The maximum speed is rated at 185 km/h (114.95 mph). Fuel economy is a key strength, with combined fuel consumption rated at 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg), making it an economical choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel. The engine meets Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The SEAT León II (1P) facelift features a contemporary hatchback design. The five-door body style provides easy access to the cabin and a practical interior layout. The 2009 facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the front fascia, including revised headlights and a redesigned grille, giving the car a more modern appearance. Inside, the León offers seating for five passengers and a trunk space of 341 liters (12.04 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 1166 liters (41.18 cu. ft.) when folded down. Standard safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The car’s dimensions are 4315 mm (169.88 in.) in length, 1768 mm (69.61 in.) in width, and 1458 mm (57.4 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2578 mm (101.5 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon II (1P, facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 TDI PD (105 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 2009 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1900 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BXE |
| Engine displacement | 1896 cm3 (115.7 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 19:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Pump-nozzle (Unit Injector) |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1290 kg (2843.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1868 kg (4118.24 lbs.) |
| Max load | 578 kg (1274.27 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 | 680 kg (1499.14 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 | 1533 mm (60.35 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1517 mm (59.72 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 |
The SEAT León II 1.9 TDI PD (105 Hp) offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a practical, economical, and reasonably engaging hatchback. Its blend of fuel efficiency, decent performance, and stylish design ensured its continued popularity throughout its production run.
