2013-2015 Seat Leon III SC Cupra 2.0 TSI (265 Hp) DSG startstop

The SEAT Leon III SC Cupra 2.0 TSI (265 Hp) DSG start/stop is a high-performance variant of the third-generation SEAT Leon Sport Coupé (SC), produced between 2013 and 2015. The Leon, while not officially sold in the United States, is a significant model within the Volkswagen Group, primarily marketed in Europe. It occupies the compact class, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. The Cupra trim level represents the performance-oriented version, offering increased power and sporty styling compared to standard Leon models. This particular iteration features a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine paired with a dual-clutch DSG transmission and a start/stop system for improved fuel efficiency.

SEAT Leon III SC Cupra: A Performance Hatchback

The Leon III SC Cupra was designed to appeal to drivers seeking a blend of practicality and performance in a compact package. The “SC” designation indicates the Sport Coupé body style, a three-door hatchback offering a more dynamic appearance than the five-door Leon. The Cupra model specifically targeted enthusiasts looking for a more engaging driving experience, with enhanced engine output, sport-tuned suspension, and distinctive styling cues. While SEAT is not a brand widely recognized in the US market, the Leon shares its platform and many components with the Volkswagen Golf, a popular vehicle in North America, highlighting the underlying engineering quality and technology.

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the Leon III SC Cupra 2.0 TSI lies a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated EA888 / CJXE. This engine utilizes direct injection and multi-port manifold injection, coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler, to produce 265 horsepower at 5350-6600 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1700-5300 rpm. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is an impressive 133.6 hp/l. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed dual-clutch DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission, enabling rapid gear changes and contributing to the car’s brisk acceleration. The electronically limited top speed is 250 km/h (155.34 mph). Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 5.8 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in a calculated 5.5 seconds. The weight-to-power ratio of 5 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 3.8 kg/Nm further emphasize the car’s performance capabilities.

Design & Features

The SEAT Leon III SC Cupra is a three-door coupe with seating for five passengers. Its design emphasizes sporty aesthetics, with a lower ride height, aggressive front bumper, rear spoiler, and distinctive alloy wheels. The interior features sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and aluminum pedals, creating a driver-focused environment. The Cupra model also included features like a start/stop system to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. Safety features, standard for the era, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The trunk offers 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1150 liters (40.61 cu. ft.) when folded down. The car’s dimensions are 4236 mm (166.77 in.) in length, 1810 mm (71.26 in.) in width, and 1423 mm (56.02 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2596 mm (102.2 in.).

Technical Specifications