The SEAT Leon III, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2016, represents a significant evolution in the Spanish automaker’s compact hatchback offering. While SEAT is a prominent brand in Europe, particularly within the Volkswagen Group portfolio, it has limited official presence in the United States. The Leon competes in the highly contested C-segment, going up against rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. The FR trim level, as exemplified by the 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) model produced between 2016 and 2018, signifies a sportier iteration of the Leon, blending efficiency with a more engaging driving experience. This article details the specifications and characteristics of the SEAT Leon III (facelift 2016) FR 2.0 TDI.
SEAT Leon III (Facelift 2016) FR 2.0 TDI: 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, standing for “Formula Racing,” adds distinctive aesthetic touches and a focus on dynamic performance. The 2.0 TDI variant, powered by a turbocharged diesel engine, was a popular choice in European markets due to its balance of fuel economy and torque. It catered to drivers seeking a practical and efficient vehicle without sacrificing driving pleasure.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Leon III FR 2.0 TDI lies a 1968 cc (120.09 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This powerplant, identified by engine codes CKFC, CRBC, CRLB, or CRMB, produces 150 horsepower (Hp) at 3500-4000 rpm and a substantial 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1750 and 3000 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to optimize performance and efficiency. This configuration allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.4 seconds and a maximum speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 8.2 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 3.6 kg/Nm, contributing to a responsive driving experience. Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined consumption of 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l), and CO2 emissions of 110 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. The facelifted model features a more angular front fascia, redesigned headlights, and a revised grille, giving it a more modern and aggressive appearance. The FR trim adds further visual enhancements, including sportier bumpers, side skirts, and alloy wheels (typically 17 or 18 inches). Inside, the Leon FR boasts a driver-focused cabin with supportive seats and a sporty steering wheel. Standard features include air conditioning, an infotainment system with touchscreen display, and various safety systems such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.), providing ample space for luggage and cargo. The vehicle’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 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 54.7 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 65.7 UK mpg |
| CO2 emissions | 110 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3500-4000 rpm |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1750-3000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CKFC, CRBC, CRLB, CRMB |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1230 kg (2711.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 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%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
The SEAT Leon III (facelift 2016) FR 2.0 TDI represents a well-rounded package for drivers seeking a practical, efficient, and enjoyable compact hatchback. Its combination of a torquey diesel engine, sporty styling, and a comfortable interior made it a popular choice in the European market.
