The SEAT Leon III, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2016, represents a significant evolution in the Spanish automaker’s compact hatchback offering. Positioned within the highly competitive C-segment, the Leon aimed to blend sporty styling, engaging driving dynamics, and practical everyday usability. The FR 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) DSG variant, produced from 2016 to 2018, was a popular choice, offering a balance of performance and efficiency. While SEAT is not officially sold in the United States, the Leon is a key model in European markets, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra.
SEAT Leon III (Facelift 2016) FR 1.4 TSI: An Overview
The Leon III, launched in 2012, was a pivotal model for SEAT, marking a shift towards more sophisticated design and engineering. The 2016 facelift brought revised styling, updated technology, and refined engine options. The FR trim level, signifying “Formula Racing,” denotes a sportier aesthetic and enhanced performance compared to the standard Leon. The 1.4 TSI engine, coupled with the DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) dual-clutch transmission, provided a responsive and efficient powertrain.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Leon FR 1.4 TSI is a 1.4-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the CZEA engine code. This turbocharged engine produces 150 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-3500 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler work in tandem to deliver strong acceleration and good mid-range responsiveness. The engine boasts direct fuel injection, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. Paired with the seven-speed DSG transmission, the Leon FR 1.4 TSI achieves a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 8 seconds and a top speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). The 0-60 mph time is calculated at 7.6 seconds. Fuel consumption is rated at 4.8 liters per 100 kilometers (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg), with CO2 emissions of 114 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 7.9 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.8 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III facelift maintains the distinctive five-door hatchback body style. The FR trim adds sporty touches such as unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and alloy wheels (typically 17 or 18 inches). Inside, the FR features sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and aluminum pedals. The interior design emphasizes a driver-focused layout with a clean and modern aesthetic. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, an infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and various safety features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The Leon offers 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.) of trunk space, expandable by folding down the rear seats. The car’s dimensions are 4281 mm (168.54 in.) in length, 1816 mm (71.5 in.) in width, and 1444 mm (56.85 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2634 mm (103.7 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | FR 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 114 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 | 7.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 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 | 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1188 kg (2619.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1790 kg (3946.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 602 kg (1327.18 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.) |
| Length | 4281 mm (168.54 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1975 mm (77.76 in.) |
| Height | 1444 mm (56.85 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2634 mm (103.7 in.) |
| Front track | 1534-1538 mm (60.39 – 60.55 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1511-1512 mm (59.49 – 59.53 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.3 m (33.79 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
The SEAT Leon III (facelift 2016) FR 1.4 TSI DSG offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a stylish, efficient, and engaging compact hatchback. Its blend of performance, practicality, and modern features made it a popular choice in the European market.
