The SEAT Leon III ST (facelift 2016) 1.5 TSI (150 Hp) DSG is a compact station wagon (estate) produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT from 2018 to 2020. As part of the third generation of the Leon, the ST variant – signifying “Sport Tourer” – offered increased practicality and cargo space compared to the hatchback model. While SEAT vehicles are not officially sold in the United States, the Leon is a popular model in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf Estate, Ford Focus Wagon, and Skoda Octavia Combi. The facelifted version introduced in 2016 brought styling updates and technological enhancements to the range, solidifying the Leon’s position as a well-rounded and competitive offering in the European C-segment.
SEAT Leon III ST 1.5 TSI: Overview and Market Position
The Leon III ST 1.5 TSI represents a key iteration within the Leon lineup, focusing on a balance between fuel efficiency and performance. The 1.5 TSI engine, coupled with the dual-clutch DSG transmission, was designed to appeal to drivers seeking a practical and enjoyable driving experience. In the European market, the station wagon body style is highly favored for its versatility, making the Leon ST a significant model for SEAT. It caters to families and individuals needing ample cargo capacity without sacrificing the sporty character associated with the Leon nameplate. The facelifted model further refined the design and incorporated updated safety features, enhancing its overall appeal.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Leon III ST 1.5 TSI is a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated EA211evo. This engine 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 equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to optimize performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission. This combination allows for quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to 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 215 km/h (133.59 mph). Fuel economy figures are rated at 5.1-5.3 l/100 km (46.1-44.4 US mpg) combined, with CO2 emissions ranging from 115-120 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III ST (facelift 2016) boasts a sleek and modern station wagon design. The body style provides a generous 587 liters (20.73 cu. ft.) of trunk space, expandable to 1470 liters (51.91 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle features five doors and can comfortably accommodate five passengers. The facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior, including redesigned headlights, a revised front grille, and updated taillights. Inside, the cabin is characterized by a driver-focused layout with quality materials and a range of technology features. Standard equipment typically includes air conditioning, an infotainment system with touchscreen display, and various driver-assistance systems such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). Safety features were a key focus of the facelift, with enhancements to the vehicle’s active and passive safety systems. The kerb weight of the vehicle is 1219 kg (2687.43 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III ST (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TSI (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) | 6.4-6.6 l/100 km (36.8 – 35.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3-4.5 l/100 km (54.7 – 52.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1-5.3 l/100 km (46.1 – 44.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 115-120 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 | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| 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 |
| Kerb Weight | 1219 kg (2687.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 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) |
| Length | 4549 mm (179.09 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Height | 1454 mm (57.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission DSG |
The SEAT Leon III ST 1.5 TSI (150 Hp) DSG offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a practical, efficient, and stylish station wagon. Its blend of performance, fuel economy, and modern features made it a strong contender in the competitive C-segment.
