The SEAT Leon III ST (facelift 2016) 1.5 EcoTSI, equipped with a 150 horsepower engine and a dual-clutch gearbox (DSG), represents a significant iteration in SEAT’s compact estate car lineup. Introduced in 2018 and continuing through 2020, this model is a key example of SEAT’s focus on blending practicality, efficiency, and a sporty driving experience. While SEAT is not officially sold in the United States, the Leon has been a popular choice in Europe, particularly in markets like Spain, Germany, and the United Kingdom, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf Estate, Skoda Octavia Combi, and Ford Focus Wagon. The “ST” designation signifies the “Sport Tourer” or estate body style, offering increased cargo capacity compared to the hatchback version.
SEAT Leon III ST 1.5 EcoTSI: Overview
The Leon III ST facelift, launched in 2016, brought updated styling, enhanced technology, and refined engine options to the Leon range. The 1.5 EcoTSI variant specifically targeted buyers seeking a balance between fuel economy and performance. This engine, part of the EA211evo family, utilizes direct injection and turbocharging to deliver a responsive and efficient driving experience. The inclusion of a DSG transmission further enhances both performance and fuel efficiency by providing quick and seamless gear changes. The facelifted model also incorporated improvements to the interior, including updated infotainment systems and materials.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the SEAT Leon III ST 1.5 EcoTSI lies a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-3500 rpm. The engine’s specific output is 100.1 horsepower per liter, demonstrating its efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission, enabling quick and precise gear changes. This combination allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.3 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 214 km/h (132.97 mph). The engine incorporates a particulate filter to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 6 AG standards. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.2-5.3 liters per 100 kilometers (45.2-44.4 US mpg) in combined driving, with CO2 emissions ranging from 118-120 g/km.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III ST is a five-door, five-seat station wagon (estate) characterized by its sleek and modern design. The facelifted model features a revised front grille, redesigned headlights with LED technology, and a refreshed rear bumper. The interior is designed with a driver-focused layout, featuring a comfortable and ergonomic cabin. Key features include a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration, climate control, and a range of driver-assistance systems. Safety features include ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. The ST body style provides a generous 587 liters (20.73 cu. ft.) of trunk space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1470 liters (51.91 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4548 mm (179.06 in.) in length, 1816 mm (71.5 in.) in width, and 1439 mm (56.65 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2634 mm (103.7 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III ST (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 EcoTSI (150 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.5-6.6 l/100 km (36.2 – 35.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4-4.5 l/100 km (53.5 – 52.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2-5.3 l/100 km (45.2 – 44.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 118-120 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 214 km/h (132.97 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 AG |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA211evo / DADA, DPCA |
| 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 | 10.5:1 |
| 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 | 1219 kg (2687.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 621 kg (1369.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 587 l (20.73 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1470 l (51.91 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4548 mm (179.06 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Height | 1439 mm (56.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2634 mm (103.7 in.) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
The SEAT Leon III ST 1.5 EcoTSI DSG represents a well-rounded package for those seeking a practical, efficient, and enjoyable driving experience in the compact estate segment. Its combination of a responsive engine, smooth transmission, and spacious interior makes it a compelling option within its class.
