The SEAT Leon III SC Cupra 2.0 TSI (280 Hp) DSG start/stop is a high-performance variant of the third-generation SEAT Leon Sport Coupé (SC). Introduced for the 2014 and 2015 model years, this vehicle represents SEAT’s foray into a more focused, driver-oriented compact car. While SEAT is a Spanish automobile manufacturer, it is a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, and the Leon shares its platform with other VW Group vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, and Škoda Octavia. The Cupra trim level, historically signifying SEAT’s performance models, was reintroduced with the third-generation Leon, offering a compelling blend of practicality, style, and engaging driving dynamics, primarily targeted at the European market.
SEAT Leon III SC Cupra: Overview and Market Positioning
The Leon III SC Cupra occupied a niche within the European hot hatch segment, competing with vehicles like the Ford Focus ST, Renault Mégane RS, and Volkswagen Golf GTI. Unlike its five-door Leon counterpart, the SC (Sport Coupé) featured a three-door body style, emphasizing a sportier aesthetic and appealing to buyers prioritizing style and a more direct driving experience. The 2.0 TSI engine, coupled with the DSG dual-clutch transmission and start/stop technology, aimed to deliver both exhilarating performance and reasonable fuel efficiency. It was not officially sold in the United States, but its engineering and components are found in various VW Group vehicles available in North America.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Leon III SC Cupra lies the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated CJXA, produces 280 horsepower at 5,600-6,500 rpm and 350 Newton-meters (258.15 lb-ft) of torque between 1,700 and 5,600 rpm. The high specific output of 141.1 horsepower per liter underscores the engine’s sophisticated design and forced induction. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission, known for its rapid and seamless gear changes. This combination allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 5.7 seconds, and a calculated 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds. The electronically limited top speed is 250 km/h (155.34 mph). The inclusion of a start/stop system contributes to improved fuel economy in urban driving conditions.
Design & Features
The Leon III SC Cupra distinguishes itself from the standard Leon SC through a series of sporty design cues. These include a more aggressive front bumper with larger air intakes, a rear diffuser with quad exhaust outlets, and distinctive alloy wheels (7.5J x 18 or 8J x 19). The interior features sport seats with enhanced bolstering, aluminum pedals, and Cupra-specific trim elements. The three-door coupe body style provides a sleek profile, while the interior offers seating for five passengers. Practicality is maintained with a trunk (boot) space ranging from 380 liters (13.42 cu ft) with the rear seats up to 1150 liters (40.61 cu ft) with them folded down. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a comprehensive airbag system, reflecting contemporary safety standards. The vehicle’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.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III SC |
| Type (Engine) | Cupra 2.0 TSI (280 Hp) DSG start/stop |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2-8.3 l/100 km (28.7 – 28.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4-6.5 l/100 km (36.8 – 36.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 149 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 | 4.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 280 Hp @ 5600-6500 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1700-5600 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CJXA |
| 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1320 kg (2910.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1890 kg (4166.74 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (min) | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (max) | 1150 l (40.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4236 mm (166.77 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1975 mm (77.76 in.) |
| Height | 1423 mm (56.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2596 mm (102.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1536 mm (60.47 in.) |
| Rear track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | 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 |
| Tires size | 225/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 8J x 19 |
The SEAT Leon III SC Cupra 2.0 TSI (280 Hp) DSG start/stop represents a compelling offering in the compact performance car segment, blending sporty styling, engaging dynamics, and practical features. While not available in the US market, it showcases SEAT’s engineering capabilities and its position within the broader Volkswagen Group portfolio.
