Seat Leon III ST 1.2 TSI (110 Hp) startstop DSG

The Seat Leon III ST 1.2 TSI (110 Hp) start/stop DSG, produced between May 2014 and 2016, represents a crucial offering in the European C-segment compact family car market. As part of the third generation of the Seat Leon, a model renowned for its dynamic styling and engaging driving characteristics, the ST (Sport Tourer) variant extended its appeal by adding significant practicality in a station wagon body style. Seat, a Spanish automaker under the Volkswagen Group umbrella, positions itself with a focus on youthful design, sportiness, and advanced technology, often at a competitive price point. The Leon III ST exemplifies this philosophy, offering a versatile package that blends utility with the brand’s distinctive flair. While not officially sold in the United States, this particular configuration of the Leon was a popular choice across Europe, catering to buyers who sought a fuel-efficient, yet capable, family vehicle with ample cargo space and modern features, all wrapped in an aesthetically pleasing design that stood out from its more conservative German counterparts within the VW Group.

Engine & Performance: The Seat Leon III ST 1.2 TSI (110 Hp) start/stop DSG Powertrain

At the heart of the 2014-2016 Seat Leon III ST 1.2 TSI (110 Hp) start/stop DSG lies a sophisticated 1.2-liter turbocharged inline-four petrol engine, designated with the model code CYVB. This compact powerhouse delivers a respectable 110 horsepower, available across a broad rev range from 4600 to 5600 rpm, translating to a power-per-liter output of 91.9 Hp/l. More significantly for daily driving and efficiency, the engine generates a robust 175 Nm (129.07 lb.-ft.) of torque, accessible from a remarkably low 1400 rpm and sustained up to 4000 rpm. This wide torque band is a hallmark of modern turbocharged engines, providing excellent responsiveness and reducing the need for frequent downshifts, making for a relaxed yet capable driving experience in urban and highway conditions alike.

The engine’s architecture features a front, transverse layout, with four cylinders and four valves per cylinder, a bore of 71 mm (2.8 in.) and a piston stroke of 75.6 mm (2.98 in.). A compression ratio of 10.5:1, combined with a direct injection fuel system and an intercooled turbocharger, ensures efficient combustion and optimal power delivery. This advanced setup contributes to the vehicle’s impressive fuel economy figures: a combined 47 US mpg (5 liters per 100 km), with urban consumption at 40.6 US mpg (5.8 l/100 km) and extra-urban at 52.3 US mpg (4.5 l/100 km). These figures highlight the engineering focus on minimizing fuel consumption, a critical factor in the European market.

Further enhancing efficiency is the standard Start & Stop System, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary and restarts it seamlessly when the driver intends to move. This system, coupled with the Euro 6 emission standard compliance, underscores the vehicle’s environmental credentials, with CO2 emissions rated at 115 g/km. Power is routed to the front wheels via a smooth and quick-shifting 7-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission. This dual-clutch unit offers the convenience of an automatic with the efficiency and responsiveness typically associated with manual gearboxes, providing swift acceleration and helping maintain the engine in its optimal operating range for both performance and fuel economy.

In terms of outright performance, the Leon III ST 1.2 TSI accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 9.8 seconds (0-100 km/h in 10.3 seconds), and can reach a maximum speed of 118.68 mph (191 km/h). These figures demonstrate that while the focus is on efficiency and practicality, the vehicle still offers ample performance for everyday driving, including comfortable cruising on highways. With a weight-to-power ratio of 11.6 kg/Hp (85.9 Hp/tonne) and a weight-to-torque ratio of 7.3 kg/Nm (136.7 Nm/tonne), the powertrain is well-matched to the vehicle’s kerb weight of 2821.92 lbs. (1280 kg), providing a balanced and engaging driving dynamic that Seat models are known for.

Design & Features: Practicality Meets Dynamic Styling

The Seat Leon III ST, or Sport Tourer, is a testament to the brand’s ability to infuse practicality with a distinctly dynamic and appealing design. Its station wagon (estate) body type is characterized by sharp lines, taut surfaces, and a purposeful stance, differentiating it from more staid competitors in the compact segment. With five doors and seating for five occupants, the Leon ST offers excellent accessibility and passenger comfort, making it an ideal choice for families or individuals requiring versatile space.

Dimensionally, the vehicle measures 178.54 inches (4535 mm) in length, 71.5 inches (1816 mm) in width, and 57.13 inches (1451 mm) in height. A wheelbase of 103.78 inches (2636 mm) contributes to a stable ride and generous interior room, particularly for rear passengers. The front track of 60.98 inches (1549 mm) and rear track of 59.84 inches (1520 mm) further enhance its road-holding capabilities and balanced proportions. These dimensions strike a fine balance, providing ample interior space while remaining maneuverable enough for urban environments, a crucial consideration in European markets.

The true highlight of the ST variant is its cargo capacity. The trunk (boot) space offers a substantial 20.73 cu. ft. (587 liters) with the rear seats in place, expanding to an impressive 51.91 cu. ft. (1470 liters) when the rear seats are folded down. This expansive and flexible cargo area makes the Leon ST highly capable for carrying luggage, sports equipment, or larger items, significantly enhancing its utility over the hatchback version. The maximum load capacity of 1256.63 lbs. (570 kg) and a maximum gross weight of 4078.55 lbs. (1850 kg) further underscore its practical capabilities.

Beyond its spacious interior, the Leon III ST comes equipped with essential features for its time. The front-wheel-drive architecture, combined with a responsive steering rack and pinion system, ensures agile handling and precise control. Safety is addressed with standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), providing crucial stopping power and stability in emergency braking situations. The inclusion of the Start & Stop System, as previously discussed, is not just an engine feature but also a convenience that contributes to a more refined and economical driving experience. The overall design philosophy of the Leon III ST successfully merges the practical requirements of a family wagon with the dynamic aesthetic and driving engagement expected from the Seat brand, creating a compelling package for its target demographic.

Technical Specifications