Seat Leon III ST 1.6 TDI (105 Hp) startstop

The Seat Leon III ST 1.6 TDI (105 Hp) start/stop represents a significant offering from the Spanish automaker, Seat, within the highly competitive European compact segment. Launched as part of the third-generation Leon lineup, the ST variant — an abbreviation for Sport Tourer, commonly known as a station wagon or estate in the US — was introduced in 2014 and produced through 2015. While Seat, a brand under the Volkswagen Group umbrella, is not typically sold in the United States, this particular model exemplifies the sophisticated engineering and practical design philosophies prevalent in its primary European market. It was engineered to deliver a compelling balance of fuel efficiency, utility, and driving dynamics, catering to families and individuals seeking a versatile yet economical daily driver.

Engineering and Performance of the Seat Leon III ST 1.6 TDI (105 Hp) start/stop

At the heart of the Seat Leon III ST 1.6 TDI (105 Hp) start/stop lies a robust and efficient 1.6-liter (1598 cm³ or 97.52 cu. in.) turbocharged diesel engine, designated with the internal code CLHA. This inline four-cylinder powertrain is configured in a front, transverse layout, driving the front wheels through a 5-speed manual transmission. Diesel engines, particularly of this displacement, have historically been a cornerstone of the European automotive market due to their superior fuel economy and strong torque delivery, making them ideal for both urban commutes and long-distance travel across the continent.

The engine generates a respectable 105 horsepower at a broad range of 3000-4000 rpm, translating to a power output of 65.7 HP per liter. More impressively for a diesel, it produces a substantial 250 Newton-meters (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque, available from a low 1500 rpm and sustained up to 2750 rpm. This wide torque band ensures responsive acceleration and effortless cruising, particularly beneficial when the vehicle is loaded with passengers or cargo. The engine’s architecture includes a Commonrail fuel injection system and a turbocharger with an intercooler, technologies designed to optimize combustion efficiency and power output while minimizing emissions.

Performance figures for the Seat Leon III ST 1.6 TDI (105 Hp) start/stop underscore its practical orientation rather than outright speed. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a calculated 10.5 seconds, with 0 to 100 km/h taking 11.1 seconds. The top speed is rated at 191 km/h (118.68 mph). These figures position it as a competent and capable vehicle for everyday driving, capable of merging onto highways and maintaining speed with ease. Its weight-to-power ratio stands at 12.7 kg/Hp (78.9 Hp/tonne), while the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.3 kg/Nm (187.8 Nm/tonne), indicating a well-balanced power-to-weight characteristic for its segment.

A key feature enhancing its efficiency is the standard Start & Stop System, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary and restarts it instantaneously when the driver intends to move. This system, coupled with a particulate filter, significantly contributes to the vehicle’s impressive fuel economy and reduced environmental impact. The combined fuel consumption is rated at an outstanding 3.8 liters per 100 kilometers, which translates to approximately 61.9 US mpg. Urban consumption is 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg), and extra-urban consumption is even lower at 3.3 l/100 km (71.3 US mpg). Furthermore, the car boasts CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km, adhering to the Euro 5 emission standard, a testament to its environmentally conscious engineering.

Design, Utility, and Features

The Seat Leon III ST 1.6 TDI (105 Hp) start/stop distinguishes itself with a sleek and dynamic design that belies its practical station wagon body type. Seat designers successfully integrated the brand’s sharp, angular aesthetic, giving the Leon ST a sporty yet sophisticated presence. The five-door, five-seat configuration provides ample passenger space and easy access, making it a highly functional family vehicle. Its dimensions—a length of 4535 mm (178.54 in.), width of 1816 mm (71.5 in.), and height of 1451 mm (57.13 in.)—position it as a compact station wagon, ideal for navigating crowded European city streets while offering substantial interior volume.

The “ST” designation truly shines in terms of cargo utility. The minimum trunk (boot) space is an impressive 587 liters (20.73 cu. ft.), which can be expanded to a cavernous 1470 liters (51.91 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. This adaptability makes the Leon ST an excellent choice for hauling luggage, sports equipment, or even small furniture, providing a level of practicality that rivals larger SUVs, but within a more fuel-efficient and maneuverable package. The long wheelbase of 2636 mm (103.78 in.) contributes to both interior roominess and stable handling characteristics.

In terms of features, the 2014-2015 Seat Leon III ST, while not explicitly detailing every amenity in the provided data, would have included a range of modern conveniences and safety systems standard for its era and segment. Assisting systems like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) are foundational for vehicle safety, providing critical control during emergency braking maneuvers. Steering is managed by a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive feedback to the driver. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 1331 kg (2934.35 lbs.) and a maximum permissible weight of 1860 kg (4100.6 lbs.), allowing for a substantial maximum load of 529 kg (1166.25 lbs.), underscore its robust construction and capability to carry significant weight without compromising stability.

The interior design of the Leon III generation was known for its ergonomic layout, quality materials, and user-friendly infotainment systems, though specific details are not provided. Given its production years, features like touchscreen displays, Bluetooth connectivity, and various driver-assistance technologies would have been available, either as standard or optional equipment, aligning with the expectations of European consumers for a modern compact car. The overall design language, both inside and out, reflects Seat’s commitment to offering vehicles that are not only practical and efficient but also aesthetically pleasing and enjoyable to drive.

Technical Specifications