The Seat Leon III ST 1.6 TDI (110 Hp) ECOMOTIVE represents a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and dynamic styling within the European compact car segment. Produced by the Spanish automaker Seat, a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, this particular variant of the third-generation Leon ST (Sport Tourer, or station wagon) was manufactured between 2014 and 2016. While Seat vehicles are not officially sold in the United States, the brand holds a significant position in its primary European markets, offering a sportier, more design-focused alternative to its Volkswagen and Skoda siblings. The Leon ST was designed to cater to families and individuals requiring greater cargo capacity than the standard hatchback, without sacrificing the agile driving characteristics for which the Leon model line is known. The ECOMOTIVE designation further underscores its primary mission: to deliver exceptional fuel economy and reduced environmental impact, making it an attractive proposition in regions where diesel powertrains and efficiency are highly valued.
Engine & Performance: The Seat Leon III ST 1.6 TDI (110 Hp) ECOMOTIVE
At the heart of the Seat Leon III ST 1.6 TDI (110 Hp) ECOMOTIVE lies a highly efficient 1.6-liter (1598 cm3 or 97.52 cu. in.) inline four-cylinder diesel engine. This powertrain, part of Volkswagen Group’s widely recognized TDI (Turbocharged Direct Injection) family, is engineered for a balance of robust performance and impressive fuel economy. It generates a respectable 110 horsepower (Hp) delivered across a broad range from 3200 to 4000 revolutions per minute (rpm), making it responsive in various driving conditions. Crucially, the engine produces a substantial 184.39 lb.-ft. (250 Nm) of torque, available from a low 1500 rpm up to 3000 rpm. This wide torque band ensures strong pulling power and effortless cruising, particularly beneficial for a station wagon often laden with passengers and cargo.
The engine’s configuration features a front, transverse layout, driving the front wheels through a precise 6-speed manual transmission. This setup contributes to the vehicle’s engaging driving dynamics and efficiency. Fuel delivery is managed by a sophisticated Commonrail Diesel Injection system, working in conjunction with a turbocharger and intercooler to optimize combustion and boost power output. With a compression ratio of 16.2:1 and four valves per cylinder, the engine operates with high thermal efficiency. Furthermore, in line with European emissions standards, this ECOMOTIVE variant includes a particulate filter and meets the Euro 5 emission standard, reflecting its commitment to minimizing environmental impact with a CO2 emission rating of just 87 g/km.
Performance figures for the Leon III ST 1.6 TDI ECOMOTIVE highlight its practical capabilities rather than outright speed. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 10.1 seconds, with a maximum speed of 123.65 mph (199 km/h). However, its true strength lies in its fuel efficiency. The combined fuel consumption is an outstanding 71.3 US mpg (3.3 l/100 km), breaking down to 60.3 US mpg (3.9 l/100 km) in urban driving and an exceptional 75.9 US mpg (3.1 l/100 km) on the extra-urban cycle. These figures position the Leon ST ECOMOTIVE as one of the most economical vehicles in its class during its production years, offering significant cost savings for drivers covering long distances. The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio stands at 11.6 kg/Hp, or 85.9 Hp/tonne, while the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.1 kg/Nm, or 195.3 Nm/tonne, further illustrating its balanced engineering for efficiency and usability.
Design & Features
The Seat Leon III ST embraces a station wagon (or estate) body type, distinguished by its extended roofline and generous cargo area, making it a highly versatile vehicle for European families and active lifestyles. Measuring 178.54 inches (4535 mm) in length, 71.5 inches (1816 mm) in width, and 57.13 inches (1451 mm) in height, the Leon ST maintains a compact footprint for urban maneuverability while maximizing interior space. Its wheelbase of 103.78 inches (2636 mm) contributes to both stable handling and a comfortable ride for its five occupants across five doors.
From a design perspective, the third-generation Leon ST adopted Seat’s contemporary aesthetic, characterized by sharp lines, angular headlights, and a distinctive grille that imbues the car with a sporty and dynamic presence. Despite its practical orientation as a station wagon, the Leon ST avoided the often-conservative styling associated with the segment, instead offering a more youthful and assertive look. The exterior design seamlessly integrates the extended rear section, ensuring that the additional cargo volume does not detract from the vehicle’s overall visual appeal.
Inside, the Leon III ST prioritizes ergonomics and functionality, typical of Volkswagen Group vehicles of the era. While specific interior features beyond the seating capacity are not detailed in the provided data, one can infer a cabin designed for user-friendliness and comfort. The standard 5-seat configuration provides ample room for passengers, while the true highlight is its cargo capacity. The trunk offers a substantial minimum volume of 20.73 cubic feet (587 liters), which expands dramatically to a cavernous 51.91 cubic feet (1470 liters) with the rear seats folded down. This flexibility makes the Leon ST an ideal choice for hauling luggage, sports equipment, or larger items, addressing the core needs of station wagon buyers.
In terms of safety and driving aids, the Leon III ST 1.6 TDI ECOMOTIVE includes an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard, enhancing control during emergency braking maneuvers. The vehicle employs a precise rack and pinion steering system, contributing to its responsive handling and driver engagement. With a kerb weight of 2821.92 lbs (1280 kg) and a maximum permissible weight of 3858.09 lbs (1750 kg), the vehicle is engineered for robust performance even when fully loaded, with a maximum load capacity of 1036.17 lbs (470 kg). The front and rear track dimensions (60.98 inches front, 59.84 inches rear) further contribute to its stable road holding, reinforcing its credentials as a well-engineered and practical family vehicle for the European market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III ST |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (110 Hp) ECOMOTIVE |
| Start of production | 2014 year |
| End of production | 2016 year |
