The SEAT León III, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2016, represents a significant evolution in the Spanish automaker’s compact hatchback offering. While SEAT is a brand primarily known in Europe, the León is a key model demonstrating the company’s commitment to design, technology, and driving dynamics within the competitive C-segment. The 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) variant, produced from 2016 to 2018, was a popular choice, balancing fuel efficiency with respectable performance. This article details the specifications and characteristics of this specific model, providing a comprehensive overview of its engineering and features.
SEAT León III (Facelift 2016) 1.4 TSI: An Overview
The León III, launched in 2012, was a pivotal model for SEAT, moving the brand upmarket and establishing a stronger design identity. The 2016 facelift brought revised styling, updated technology, and refined engine options. The 1.4 TSI 150 horsepower version aimed to provide a sweet spot in the range, appealing to drivers seeking a practical, economical, and enjoyable driving experience. It competed with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra, offering a distinctive Spanish flair and value proposition.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the SEAT León III 1.4 TSI lies a 1.4-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated CZEA, utilizes direct fuel injection and is turbocharged with an intercooler to deliver a power output of 150 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm. Peak torque of 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) is available from a low 1500-3500 rpm, providing strong mid-range acceleration. This engine is known for its responsiveness and efficiency. The power-to-weight ratio of 7.8 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 4.7 kg/Nm contribute to a lively driving experience. The engine’s 107.5 Hp/l specific output demonstrates its relatively high power density. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 7.6 seconds, with a maximum speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels.
Design & Features
The SEAT León III is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. The 2016 facelift brought subtle but effective styling updates, including redesigned headlights with LED daytime running lights, a revised front grille, and updated rear taillights. The interior features a driver-focused layout with a clean and modern dashboard design. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Higher trim levels offered features such as a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, climate control, and various driver-assistance systems. Safety features, crucial in modern vehicles, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and multiple airbags. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.), providing ample space for luggage and everyday items. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4282 mm (168.58 in.) in length, 1816 mm (71.5 in.) in width, and 1459 mm (57.44 in.) in height – position it squarely within the compact hatchback segment.
Technical Specifications
| General Information | |
| Brand | SEAT |
| Model | León |
| Generation | León III (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 113 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm |
| Engine Specs | |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CZEA |
| 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 | 10:1 |
| 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) |
| Space, Volume and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 1166 kg (2570.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 604 kg (1331.59 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%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Dimensions | |
| 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 | 1534-1544 mm (60.39 – 60.79 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1508-1514 mm (59.37 – 59.61 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.3 m (33.79 ft.) |
| Drivetrain, Brakes & Suspension | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18 |
