The SEAT Leon III SC Cupra 2.0 TSI (300 Hp) is a performance-oriented hatchback produced by the Spanish automaker SEAT between 2017 and 2018. This model represents a facelift of the third-generation Leon, specifically the three-door (SC – SportCoupe) variant, and is positioned as the flagship performance version within the Leon lineup. While SEAT vehicles are not officially sold in the United States, the Leon is a popular model in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. The Cupra trim level signifies SEAT’s high-performance sub-brand, offering enhanced power, sporty styling, and upgraded components compared to standard Leon models.
SEAT Leon III SC Cupra: A Performance Hatchback
The Leon III SC Cupra 2.0 TSI (300 Hp) was designed to appeal to driving enthusiasts seeking a practical yet engaging vehicle. The three-door configuration emphasizes a sportier aesthetic, while the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers substantial performance. The facelifted model, introduced in 2016 and produced through 2018, incorporated styling updates and technological enhancements to further refine the Leon’s appeal. It’s important to note that the “SC” designation denotes the shorter wheelbase and three-door layout, differentiating it from the five-door Leon hatchback.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Leon III SC Cupra 2.0 TSI (300 Hp) lies a 2.0-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the EA888 / CJXC. This engine produces a maximum power output of 300 horsepower at 5,500-6,200 rpm, and 380 Nm (280.27 lb.-ft.) of torque available from 1,800-5,500 rpm. The engine utilizes direct injection and multi-port manifold injection, coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler, to optimize performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. This powertrain configuration allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 5.7 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 5.4 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). The engine’s specific output is 151.2 horsepower per liter, showcasing its high-performance nature. The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio is 4.3 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 3.4 kg/Nm, further highlighting its dynamic capabilities.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III SC Cupra 2.0 TSI (300 Hp) is a three-door hatchback, offering a more compact and sporty profile compared to the five-door version. The facelifted model features revised front and rear styling, including redesigned headlights, a new front grille, and updated bumpers. The Cupra trim level adds distinctive styling elements, such as a rear spoiler, sporty side skirts, and unique alloy wheel designs (7.5J x 18 or 8J x 19). The interior is equipped with sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and aluminum pedals. Standard safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a comprehensive airbag system. The vehicle offers a practical cargo capacity of 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 1150 liters (40.61 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. The car also includes a Start & Stop system to improve fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III SC (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | Cupra 2.0 TSI (300 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 158 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 | 4.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 300 Hp @ 5500-6200 rpm |
| 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 | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1870 kg (4122.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 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 | 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) | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| 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 |
