The SEAT Leon III Cupra 2.0 TSI (300 Hp) DSG, produced from 2017 to 2018, represents a performance-oriented iteration of SEAT’s popular compact hatchback. As a facelift of the third-generation Leon, this model aimed to deliver a compelling blend of practicality, sporty handling, and accessible performance. While SEAT is not a brand widely available in the United States, the Leon has been a significant player in the European market, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. The Cupra variant specifically targets enthusiasts seeking a more engaging driving experience, offering a substantial power upgrade over the standard Leon models.
SEAT Leon III Cupra: Performance and Engineering
The heart of the Leon III Cupra 2.0 TSI is its turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. Designated the EA888 / CJXC, this powerplant generates 300 horsepower at 5500-6200 rpm and 380 Nm (280.27 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1800 and 5500 rpm. This translates to a power-to-liter ratio of 151.2 hp/l. The engine employs both direct injection and multi-port manifold injection, optimizing combustion efficiency and power delivery. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), enabling rapid gear changes and contributing to the car’s impressive acceleration. The 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint takes just 5.7 seconds, while the 0-60 mph time is calculated at 5.4 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.34 mph).
Powertrain Details
The engine’s transverse front-engine layout contributes to balanced handling characteristics. The inclusion of a Start & Stop system aids in improving fuel economy in urban driving conditions. The engine utilizes a DOHC valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow and combustion. The compression ratio is set at 9.3:1. The engine requires 5.7 liters (6.02 US quarts) of engine oil, adhering to specific manufacturer specifications. The vehicle also incorporates a 10-liter (10.57 US quarts) coolant capacity.
Design and Features
The SEAT Leon III Cupra 2.0 TSI retains the hatchback body style of the standard Leon, offering five seats and five doors. The Cupra variant distinguishes itself with more aggressive styling cues, including a unique front bumper, rear diffuser, and often, a rear spoiler. These elements contribute to a sportier aesthetic and subtly enhance aerodynamic performance. Inside, the Cupra features sport seats, often upholstered in a combination of fabric and Alcantara, and may include distinctive trim elements. The vehicle prioritizes practicality with a trunk (boot) space ranging from 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1210 liters (42.73 cu. ft.) when folded down. The fuel tank capacity is 50 liters (13.21 US gallons). Safety features, typical for vehicles of this era, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a comprehensive airbag system. The car’s suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, both incorporating coil springs and anti-roll bars for improved handling and stability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | Cupra 2.0 TSI (300 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 156 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.5 kg/Hp, 222.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 282.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 300 Hp @ 5500-6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 151.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1800-5500 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 1800-5500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CJXC |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1346 kg (2967.42 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1910 kg (4210.83 lbs.) |
| Max load | 564 kg (1243.41 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.) |
| Length | 4271 mm (168.15 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1975 mm (77.76 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2631 mm (103.58 in.) |
| Front track | 1534-1536 mm (60.39 – 60.47 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1510-1511 mm (59.45 – 59.49 in.) |
| Front overhang | 855 mm (33.66 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 785 mm (30.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.5 m (34.45 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 340×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 310×22 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 8J x 19 |
