The SEAT Leon III 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) ACT start/stop DSG, produced from 2014 to 2016, represents a significant iteration in SEAT’s popular compact hatchback. While SEAT is a Spanish automobile manufacturer, it operates as part of the Volkswagen Group, and the Leon is largely based on the Volkswagen MQB platform shared with models like the Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3. The Leon III was primarily marketed in Europe as a stylish, practical, and technologically advanced alternative within the C-segment, competing with rivals like the Ford Focus, Opel Astra, and Peugeot 308. This particular variant, equipped with a 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, a dual-clutch DSG transmission, and cylinder deactivation technology (ACT), focused on balancing performance with fuel efficiency.
SEAT Leon III 1.4 TSI: A Detailed Overview
The third generation of the SEAT Leon, launched in 2012, marked a departure from its predecessors with a more sophisticated design and a greater emphasis on driving dynamics. The 1.4 TSI variant, introduced in 2014, aimed to provide a compelling option for buyers seeking a blend of power and economy. The ACT (Active Cylinder Technology) system, combined with the start/stop functionality, contributed to reduced fuel consumption and emissions, aligning with increasingly stringent European regulations. The DSG transmission offered smooth and rapid gear changes, enhancing the driving experience.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the SEAT Leon III 1.4 TSI lies a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated CZEA or CZDA. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output. It produces 150 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-3500 rpm. This provides a good balance of responsiveness for everyday driving and sufficient power for overtaking maneuvers. The engine’s specific output is 107.5 horsepower per liter, demonstrating its efficiency. The engine’s transverse mounting and front-wheel drive configuration are typical for vehicles in this class.
The seven-speed dual-clutch DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmission plays a crucial role in delivering power to the front wheels. This transmission offers quick and seamless gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 8.2 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in a calculated 7.8 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). The inclusion of the ACT system, which deactivates two cylinders under light load conditions, further optimizes fuel efficiency.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. Its design is characterized by sharp lines, a distinctive front grille, and a sporty silhouette. The interior is well-appointed, with a focus on ergonomics and modern aesthetics. The vehicle comfortably seats five passengers and provides 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.) of trunk space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1210 liters (42.73 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down.
Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The Leon III also benefited from the structural integrity of the MQB platform, providing a solid foundation for occupant protection. While specific trim levels varied, the 1.4 TSI variant typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, and a multimedia system. The emphasis on fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, through technologies like ACT and start/stop, was a key selling point in the European market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) ACT start/stop DSG |
| Start of production | May, 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg / 60.1 UK mpg / 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 110 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CZEA, CZDA |
| Engine displacement | 1395 cm3 (85.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1210 l (42.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4263 mm (167.83 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Height | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
