The SEAT Leon III ST (facelift 2016) 2.0 TDI is a compact station wagon (estate) produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT from 2018 to 2020. As part of the Leon Mk3 generation, 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 2.0 TDI variant, equipped with a diesel engine and Dual Shift Gearbox (DSG), was a significant offering in European markets prioritizing fuel efficiency and torque.
SEAT Leon III ST 2.0 TDI: Overview
The facelifted Leon III ST, introduced in 2016, brought styling updates and technological enhancements to the range. The 2.0 TDI model, producing 184 horsepower, was positioned as a performance-oriented diesel option, appealing to drivers seeking a balance between economy and driving enjoyment. This model aimed to provide a refined driving experience with its efficient engine, responsive DSG transmission, and practical station wagon body style. It represented SEAT’s commitment to offering a compelling alternative in the competitive European compact car segment.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the SEAT Leon III ST 2.0 TDI is a 1,968 cc (120.09 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the DJG model. This engine delivers a maximum power output of 184 horsepower at 3,500-4,000 rpm and a substantial 380 Nm (280.27 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,750 and 3,250 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler contribute to enhanced performance and efficiency. Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a seven-speed Dual Shift Gearbox (DSG), providing quick and smooth gear changes. This powertrain combination allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 7.9 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 7.5 seconds, with a maximum speed of 226 km/h (140.43 mph). The engine’s specific output is 93.5 horsepower per liter, demonstrating its efficiency. The weight-to-power ratio is 7.5 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 3.6 kg/Nm, further highlighting the engine’s performance characteristics.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III ST is a five-door, five-seat station wagon. The facelifted model features revised front and rear styling, including redesigned headlights and taillights, as well as a refreshed front grille. The ST body style provides a significantly larger cargo capacity compared to the hatchback version. With the rear seats up, the trunk offers 587 liters (20.73 cu. ft.) of space, expanding to 1,470 liters (51.91 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. The interior is designed with a focus on practicality and driver comfort, featuring quality materials and a user-friendly layout. Standard and optional features included climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system, and various driver-assistance systems. Safety features, crucial in modern vehicles, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a comprehensive airbag system. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4,549 mm (179.09 in.) in length, 1,816 mm (71.5 in.) in width, and 1,454 mm (57.24 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2,636 mm (103.78 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III ST (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (184 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) | 5.2-5.3 l/100 km (45.2 – 44.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9-4.0 l/100 km (60.3 – 58.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4-4.5 l/100 km (53.5 – 52.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 115-117 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 226 km/h (140.43 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 AG |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 3500-4000 rpm |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1750-3250 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DJG |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1380 kg (3042.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2010 kg (4431.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 587 l (20.73 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1470 l (51.91 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 720 kg (1587.33 lbs.) |
| Length | 4549 mm (179.09 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1975 mm (77.76 in.) |
| Height | 1454 mm (57.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17 |
The SEAT Leon III ST 2.0 TDI (facelift 2016) represented a well-rounded package for European drivers seeking a practical, efficient, and enjoyable compact station wagon. Its combination of a powerful diesel engine, responsive DSG transmission, and spacious interior made it a competitive offering in its segment.
