The SEAT Leon III SC (SportCoupe) facelift, produced from 2016 to 2018, represents a significant iteration of SEAT’s popular compact hatchback. While SEAT is a Spanish automobile manufacturer, it operates as part of the Volkswagen Group, and the Leon shares its platform with models like the Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3. The “SC” designation denotes the three-door body style, offering a sportier aesthetic compared to the five-door Leon. The FR trim level, combined with the 1.4 TSI engine and DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmission, positions this Leon as a performance-oriented variant aimed at drivers seeking a balance of efficiency and driving enjoyment. This model was primarily sold in European markets, where the three-door hatchback remains a more popular body style than in the United States.
SEAT Leon III SC FR 1.4 TSI: A Detailed Overview
The facelifted Leon III SC brought with it revised styling cues, updated technology, and refined engine options. The FR trim, signifying “Formula Racing,” adds sporty visual enhancements and a more dynamic driving experience. The 1.4 TSI engine, a mainstay of the Volkswagen Group’s engine lineup, provides a compelling blend of power and fuel economy. The inclusion of the DSG transmission further enhances the driving experience with its quick and seamless gear changes.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Leon SC FR 1.4 TSI lies a 1.4-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated CZEA, produces 150 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-3500 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is turbocharged with an intercooler, contributing to its responsive performance and efficiency. The power-to-weight ratio of 7.8 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 4.7 kg/Nm highlight the car’s agility. The engine’s displacement of 1395 cm³ (85.13 cu. in.) and a compression ratio of 10:1 are typical for a modern turbocharged gasoline engine. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 7.9 seconds and a 0-60 mph time of 7.5 seconds, with a maximum speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions are 114 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III SC is a three-door hatchback, offering a more coupe-like profile than its five-door counterpart. Its dimensions are 4246 mm (167.17 in.) in length, 1810 mm (71.26 in.) in width, and 1431 mm (56.34 in.) in height. The FR trim level includes distinctive styling elements such as sportier bumpers, side skirts, and alloy wheels (available in 16, 17, or 18-inch sizes). Inside, the Leon SC offers seating for five passengers, although rear passenger space is somewhat limited due to the sloping roofline. The trunk provides a minimum capacity of 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.).
The 2016 facelift brought improvements to the interior, including updated infotainment systems and higher-quality materials. Standard safety features typically included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and the car benefits from electric power steering and a McPherson strut front suspension paired with a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. The DSG 7-speed automatic transmission provides smooth and efficient gear changes, enhancing the overall driving experience. The car’s kerb weight is 1168 kg (2575 lbs), with a maximum weight of 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs) and a maximum load capacity of 602 kg (1327.18 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III SC (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 | 3 |
| 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 | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| 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 | 1168 kg (2575 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 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 | 4246 mm (167.17 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1431 mm (56.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2599 mm (102.32 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 (turning diameter) | 10.2 m (33.46 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
The SEAT Leon III SC FR 1.4 TSI DSG represents a well-rounded package for drivers seeking a stylish, efficient, and engaging compact hatchback. Its combination of a turbocharged engine, responsive transmission, and sporty styling makes it a compelling option within its segment.
