The SEAT Leon IV 1.5 TSI (130 Hp) is a compact hatchback that formed a crucial part of SEAT’s lineup in Europe from 2020 to 2023. Representing the fourth generation of the Leon, this model aimed to blend practicality, efficiency, and a degree of sporty handling within the competitive C-segment. While SEAT vehicles are not officially sold in the United States, the Leon is a significant vehicle in the European market, often compared to models like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus. The 1.5 TSI variant, powered by a turbocharged gasoline engine, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance between performance and fuel economy.
SEAT Leon IV 1.5 TSI: Overview and Market Position
The Leon IV, launched in late 2020, marked a significant step forward for SEAT in terms of technology and design. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB Evo platform, it shared its underpinnings with other popular models like the VW Golf, Audi A3, and Skoda Octavia. This platform allowed for advancements in safety, connectivity, and driving dynamics. The 1.5 TSI version specifically targeted buyers looking for a refined and efficient daily driver, offering a compelling alternative to diesel-powered vehicles that were becoming less popular in Europe due to tightening emissions regulations. The Leon IV aimed to appeal to a younger demographic with its modern styling and tech-focused interior.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the SEAT Leon IV 1.5 TSI is a 1.5-liter, inline-four cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine, designated DPBA, produces 130 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1400 and 4000 rpm. The engine features direct fuel injection and an intercooler to optimize performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. This configuration allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.4 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 8.9 seconds. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 213 km/h (132.35 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 9.4 kg/Hp, and a power per liter output of 86.8 Hp/l. The inclusion of a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter demonstrates SEAT’s commitment to reducing emissions, meeting the stringent EURO 6 DG emission standard.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon IV 1.5 TSI is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. Its exterior design is characterized by sharp lines, a distinctive front grille, and full LED headlights. The interior boasts a modern and minimalist aesthetic, with a focus on technology and driver connectivity. Key features include a digital instrument cluster, a central touchscreen infotainment system, and a range of driver-assistance systems. The hatchback configuration provides 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.) of trunk space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1301 liters (45.94 cu. ft.) when the seats are folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4368 mm (171.97 in.) in length, 1800 mm (70.87 in.) in width, and 1456 mm (57.32 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2686 mm (105.75 in.). Safety features, typical of modern vehicles, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a comprehensive suite of airbags.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon IV |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TSI (130 Hp) |
| Start of production | November, 2020 |
| End of production | November, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.4-6.1 l/100 km (43.6 – 38.6 US mpg, 52.3 – 46.3 UK mpg, 18.5 – 16.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 122 – 137 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 213 km/h (132.35 mph) |
| Emission standard | EURO 6 DG |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1400-4000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1400-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DPBA |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.9 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1227 kg (2705.07 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 593 kg (1307.34 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1301 l (45.94 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4368 mm (171.97 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Height | 1456 mm (57.32 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2686 mm (105.75 in.) |
| Front track | 1545 mm (60.83 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1516 mm (59.69 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.5 m (34.45 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 | Semi-independent, coil spring, Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 288 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 272 mm |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 91H; 205/55 R16 91V; 225/45 R17 91W; 205/50R17 93V; 225/40 R18 92Y |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15; 6; 5J x 16; 7J x 16; 7; 5J x 17; 7; 5J x 18 |
The SEAT Leon IV 1.5 TSI (130 Hp) represented a well-rounded package for European drivers, offering a blend of efficiency, practicality, and modern technology. While not available in the US market, it exemplifies the standards of the compact hatchback segment in Europe.
