Seat Leon III ST 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) ACT startstop

The **Seat Leon III ST 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) ACT start/stop** represents a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and advanced efficiency technologies within the compact station wagon segment. Produced by SEAT, the Spanish automotive manufacturer part of the Volkswagen Group, this particular variant of the third-generation Leon ST (Sport Tourer) was available from 2014 to 2016. While SEAT vehicles are not typically sold in the United States, the Leon ST was a popular and critically acclaimed model in its primary European market, lauded for its sharp design, dynamic driving characteristics, and versatile interior. This specific model, featuring the innovative 1.4-liter TSI engine with Active Cylinder Technology (ACT) and a start/stop system, showcased SEAT’s commitment to delivering a spirited driving experience alongside impressive fuel economy and reduced emissions, aligning perfectly with the evolving demands of the European automotive landscape during its production run. Its architecture, shared with other successful Volkswagen Group platforms, ensured a robust foundation for both performance and safety.

Engine and Performance: The Heart of the Seat Leon III ST 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) ACT Start/Stop

At the core of the **Seat Leon III ST 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) ACT start/stop** lies a sophisticated powertrain designed to strike an optimal balance between power delivery and fuel efficiency. The 1.4-liter TSI (Turbocharged Stratified Injection) inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, identified by codes CZEA or CZDA, produces a robust 150 horsepower, peaking between 5000 and 6000 rpm. This impressive output for its displacement translates to a power per liter figure of 107.5 Hp/l, highlighting the engine’s advanced design. More critically for daily drivability, the engine delivers a substantial 184.39 lb.-ft. of torque across a broad and accessible band, from a low 1500 rpm up to 3500 rpm. This wide torque plateau ensures strong acceleration from low speeds and flexible in-gear performance, making it well-suited for both city driving and highway cruising.

A key technological highlight of this engine is the Active Cylinder Technology (ACT) system. This innovative feature allows the engine to seamlessly deactivate two of its four cylinders under light load conditions, such as cruising at a constant speed, significantly reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. When more power is required, the cylinders reactivate almost instantaneously and imperceptibly. Complementing ACT is the standard start/stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary in traffic and restarts it when the driver is ready to move, further contributing to efficiency, particularly in urban environments. The engine’s aspiration system, featuring a turbocharger and intercooler, ensures efficient air intake and combustion, while direct fuel injection optimizes fuel delivery for power and economy.

Mated to a precise 6-speed manual transmission, the front-wheel-drive powertrain delivers a commendable performance. The **Seat Leon III ST 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) ACT start/stop** can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.7 seconds and achieve a top speed of 133.59 mph. These figures underscore its capabilities as a genuinely sporty yet practical family vehicle. Fuel economy is a standout attribute, with a combined rating of 49 US mpg. Urban driving yields 39.9 US mpg, while extra-urban conditions see an impressive 54.7 US mpg. With CO2 emissions of just 112 g/km, the vehicle meets the stringent Euro 6 emission standard, reflecting its environmental consciousness. The weight-to-power ratio of 8.5 kg/Hp (117.6 Hp/tonne) and a weight-to-torque ratio of 5.1 kg/Nm (196.1 Nm/tonne) further illustrate the efficient engineering behind its dynamic capabilities.

Design and Features: Practicality Meets Modern European Aesthetics

The design of the **Seat Leon III ST 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) ACT start/stop** embodies SEAT’s contemporary design language, characterized by sharp lines, taut surfaces, and a distinctly sporty demeanor, even in its station wagon guise. The “ST” designation stands for Sport Tourer, emphasizing its dual nature of dynamic style and enhanced utility. With five doors and seating for five occupants, the Leon ST is a highly functional vehicle designed for European families and individuals who require significant cargo capacity without compromising on driving enjoyment or aesthetic appeal. Its exterior dimensions – a length of 178.54 inches, a width of 71.5 inches, and a height of 57.13 inches – position it firmly within the compact class, making it maneuverable in city traffic yet stable on the highway.

A major draw of the station wagon body type is its versatility, and the Leon ST excels in this regard. It offers a generous minimum trunk space of 20.73 cubic feet, which can be expanded dramatically to a cavernous 51.91 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This adaptability makes it suitable for a wide range of uses, from daily commutes and grocery runs to family vacations and hauling bulky items. The wheelbase of 103.78 inches contributes to both interior spaciousness and a composed ride. Inside, while specific features are not detailed, typical for a 2014-2016 model in this segment, it would have offered a well-appointed cabin with quality materials, ergonomic controls, and essential modern conveniences. SEAT, as part of the VW Group, benefits from access to proven technologies, ensuring a comfortable and functional environment for all occupants.

In terms of safety and driving dynamics, the Leon ST is built on a robust platform that provides a solid foundation. Standard assisting systems include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), a crucial safety feature for maintaining steering control during emergency braking. The steering system utilizes a rack and pinion setup, known for its direct feel and responsiveness, which complements the Leon’s sporty character. The drivetrain architecture, with the internal combustion engine driving the front wheels, is a common and efficient layout for compact vehicles, offering predictable handling and packaging advantages. The overall design aesthetic, combined with its practical features and efficient powertrain, made the **Seat Leon III ST 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) ACT start/stop** a highly competitive and desirable option in the European compact station wagon market, offering a compelling package of style, utility, and advanced engineering.

Technical Specifications