Seat Leon III ST Cupra 2.0 TSI (280 Hp) startstop

The Seat Leon III ST Cupra 2.0 TSI (280 Hp) start/stop, produced between 2014 and 2015, represents a compelling blend of practicality and high-performance engineering within the European automotive market. As a product of SEAT, a Spanish automaker known for its passion and sportiness under the Volkswagen Group umbrella, this particular model carved out a niche for itself as a “hot wagon” or performance estate. It combined the versatile body style of a station wagon (known as an estate in Europe) with the potent powertrain and dynamic chassis tuning characteristic of SEAT’s Cupra performance division. For buyers in its primary markets, the Leon III ST Cupra offered an enticing proposition: family-friendly cargo capacity and everyday usability without compromising on exhilarating driving dynamics and impressive straight-line speed.

Engine and Performance: The Heart of the {Seat Leon III ST Cupra 2.0 TSI (280 Hp) start/stop}

At the core of the Leon III ST Cupra’s formidable capabilities lies the acclaimed EA888 / CJXA engine, a 2.0-liter (1984 cm³ or 121.07 cu. in.) inline four-cylinder gasoline unit. This sophisticated powerplant is a testament to modern engineering, featuring a DOHC valvetrain with four valves per cylinder and an advanced fuel injection system that combines both direct injection and multi-port manifold injection. Such a dual-injection setup optimizes fuel delivery across the entire rev range, enhancing both power output and fuel efficiency. Further boosting its performance is a robust turbocharger paired with an intercooler, ensuring a dense charge of air for combustion even under demanding conditions.

This meticulously engineered engine generates a substantial 280 horsepower, available across a broad rev range from 5600 to 6500 rpm, translating to an impressive power output of 141.1 horsepower per liter. Equally critical for spirited driving is its torque delivery: a robust 350 Newton-meters (258.15 lb.-ft.) is on tap from a low 1700 rpm all the way up to 5600 rpm. This wide torque band provides exceptional responsiveness and flexibility, allowing for strong acceleration from virtually any speed without constant downshifting. The engine’s compression ratio stands at 9.3:1, a figure carefully chosen to balance performance with the demands of forced induction.

Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a precise 6-speed manual transmission, offering an engaging and direct connection between driver and machine. This front-wheel-drive architecture, combined with the Leon’s relatively light kerb weight of 3009.31 pounds (1365 kg), results in an impressive weight-to-power ratio of 4.9 kg per horsepower (205.1 Hp per tonne) and a weight-to-torque ratio of 3.9 kg per Newton-meter (256.4 Nm per tonne). These figures underscore the car’s athletic character.

The performance statistics speak for themselves: the Leon III ST Cupra accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 5.8 seconds, with 0-100 km/h achieved in 6.1 seconds. Its top speed is electronically limited to 155.34 mph (250 km/h), a common practice among European high-performance vehicles. Despite its potent performance, the vehicle incorporates an advanced Start & Stop System, contributing to improved fuel economy and reduced emissions, particularly in urban driving conditions. The fuel consumption figures, measured under the NEDC cycle, are commendable for a vehicle of this performance caliber: 26.4 US mpg in urban settings, an impressive 42 US mpg on the extra-urban cycle, and a combined average of 34.6 US mpg. With CO2 emissions of 158 g/km and adherence to the Euro 6 emission standard, the Leon III ST Cupra demonstrated a commitment to environmental responsibility alongside its performance prowess.

Design and Features: Sportiness Meets Practicality

The Seat Leon III ST Cupra 2.0 TSI (280 Hp) start/stop distinguishes itself with its station wagon body type, offering a compelling blend of sporty aesthetics and everyday utility. Measuring 178.86 inches (4543 mm) in length, 71.5 inches (1816 mm) in width (77.76 inches or 1975 mm including mirrors), and 56.34 inches (1431 mm) in height, the Leon ST Cupra maintains a sleek and muscular stance. Its wheelbase of 103.58 inches (2631 mm) contributes to both stable handling and a spacious cabin.

Inside, the vehicle comfortably accommodates five occupants across its five doors, making it a highly practical choice for families or individuals requiring significant cargo capacity. The true highlight of its practicality is the generous trunk space, which offers a minimum of 20.73 cubic feet (587 liters) with all seats in place. When the rear seats are folded down, this expands dramatically to a cavernous 51.91 cubic feet (1470 liters), allowing for the transport of larger items, sports equipment, or extensive luggage. Furthermore, a maximum roof load capacity of 165.35 lbs (75 kg) adds to its versatility.

Underneath its sculpted body, the Leon III ST Cupra features a sophisticated chassis designed to handle its power with confidence. The front suspension employs an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, providing precise steering and excellent roadholding. At the rear, an independent multi-link spring suspension with a stabilizer ensures superb grip and comfort, even during aggressive driving. Stopping power is equally impressive, with large 13.39-inch (340×30 mm) ventilated discs at the front and 12.20-inch (310×22 mm) ventilated discs at the rear, all supported by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety and control. The vehicle utilizes an electric power steering system with a rack and pinion setup, offering responsive feedback and a minimum turning circle of 34.45 feet (10.5 meters).

The sporty character is further emphasized by its wheel and tire choices: 225/40 R18 tires on 7.5J x 18 rims come standard, with an option for even larger 235/35 R19 tires on 8J x 19 rims, enhancing both grip and visual appeal. With a fuel tank capacity of 13.21 US gallons (50 liters), the Leon ST Cupra offers a respectable range between fill-ups, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer journeys. The combination of its potent engine, dynamic chassis, and practical station wagon body solidified its reputation as a true performance all-rounder in the European market.

Technical Specifications: Seat Leon III ST Cupra 2.0 TSI (280 Hp) start/stop