The SEAT Leon III (facelift 2016) 1.5 TSI (150 Hp) is a compact hatchback produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT from 2018 to 2020. As part of the third generation of the Leon, this facelifted model represented a significant update to the popular vehicle, focusing on enhanced efficiency, updated styling, and improved technology. While SEAT vehicles are not officially sold in the United States, the Leon is a prominent model in the European market, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. The 1.5 TSI variant, equipped with a turbocharged gasoline engine, was a key offering in the Leon lineup, balancing performance with fuel economy.
SEAT Leon III (Facelift 2016) 1.5 TSI: Overview
The Leon III, launched in 2012, was a crucial model for SEAT, representing a shift towards more sophisticated and design-focused vehicles. The 2016 facelift brought revised exterior styling, an updated interior with improved materials and technology, and a new range of efficient engines. The 1.5 TSI model, introduced with the facelift, utilized a downsized turbocharged engine designed to deliver a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. This model aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a practical, stylish, and economical hatchback for daily use.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the SEAT Leon III 1.5 TSI is a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, part of the EA211evo family, produces 150 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-3500 rpm. The engine features direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler, contributing to its responsive performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. This configuration allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.2 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 7.8 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.7 kg/Nm, contributing to a lively driving experience. The engine meets Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III (facelift 2016) is a five-door hatchback with a sporty and modern design. The facelift brought changes to the front fascia, including redesigned headlights with LED daytime running lights, a new grille, and a revised bumper. The rear of the car also received updates, with new taillights and a redesigned bumper. Inside, the cabin features a driver-focused layout with updated infotainment systems and improved materials. The Leon offers seating for five passengers and provides a practical and spacious interior for its class. The trunk offers 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1210 liters (42.73 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Safety features, crucial in modern vehicles, included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4282 mm (168.58 in.) in length, 1816 mm (71.5 in.) in width, and 1459 mm (57.44 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2636 mm (103.78 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TSI (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.4-6.7 l/100 km (36.8 – 35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1-4.5 l/100 km (57.4 – 52.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.0-5.3 l/100 km (47 – 44.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 113-120 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 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA211evo / DADA, DPCA |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.9 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1168 kg (2575 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1780 kg (3924.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 612 kg (1349.23 lbs.) |
| 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) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 620 kg (1366.87 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4282 mm (168.58 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1975 mm (77.76 in.) |
| Height | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1534-1549 mm (60.39 – 60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1504-1520 mm (59.21 – 59.84 in.) |
| Front overhang | 861 mm (33.9 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 785 mm (30.91 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
The SEAT Leon III (facelift 2016) 1.5 TSI (150 Hp) offered a compelling package for European buyers, combining practicality, style, and efficiency in a well-rounded compact hatchback. Its modern design, efficient engine, and available technology made it a popular choice in a competitive segment.
