The SEAT Leon III, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2016, represents a significant offering in the European compact hatchback segment. While SEAT is not a brand widely available in the United States, the Leon is a popular choice for buyers seeking a stylish, practical, and relatively affordable vehicle. The 1.0 TSI (115 Hp) variant, produced from 2016 to 2020, focused on fuel efficiency and accessibility, appealing to a broad customer base within Europe. This model aimed to balance performance with economy, utilizing a downsized turbocharged engine to meet increasingly stringent emissions standards.
SEAT Leon III (Facelift 2016) 1.0 TSI: An Overview
The Leon III, launched in 2012, was a crucial model for SEAT, marking a shift towards more mature and sophisticated designs. The 2016 facelift brought updated styling, improved technology, and refined engine options. The 1.0 TSI variant, powered by a three-cylinder turbocharged engine, was positioned as an entry-level option, offering a compelling blend of fuel economy and everyday usability. It competed with other popular European hatchbacks like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Peugeot 308, offering a distinctive Spanish flair and value proposition.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the SEAT Leon III 1.0 TSI is its 999 cc (60.96 cubic inches) inline three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine, designated CHZD, produces 115 horsepower at 5000-5500 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2000-3500 rpm. The direct injection system and turbocharger work in concert to deliver a responsive driving experience, despite the engine’s small displacement. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.6 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 9.1 seconds. The car reaches a maximum speed of 198 km/h (123.03 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 9.8 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 5.6 kg/Nm, contributing to a reasonably agile feel. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. The facelifted model features a more aggressive front fascia, updated headlights, and revised rear styling. Inside, the cabin is well-appointed for its class, with a focus on functionality and ergonomics. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an infotainment system with a touchscreen display. Safety features, crucial in modern vehicles, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. The Leon III offers 380 liters (13.42 cubic feet) of trunk space, expandable by folding down the rear seats. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4282 mm (168.58 inches) in length, 1816 mm (71.5 inches) in width, and 1459 mm (57.44 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 2636 mm (103.78 inches).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 TSI (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 102 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 5000-5500 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 2000-3500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CHZD |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.4 mm (3.01 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1127 kg (2484.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1720 kg (3791.95 lbs.) |
| Max load | 593 kg (1307.34 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Length | 4282 mm (168.58 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Height | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1544-1549 mm (60.79 – 60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1514-1520 mm (59.61 – 59.84 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.3 m (33.79 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
The SEAT Leon III 1.0 TSI (2016-2020) represents a well-rounded package for European drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency, practicality, and style. While not available in the US market, it exemplifies the competitive landscape of compact hatchbacks in Europe and showcases SEAT’s commitment to delivering value and driving enjoyment.
