Seat Leon III ST (facelift ) 1.0 TSI (115 Hp) DSG

The Seat Leon III ST (facelift 2016) 1.0 TSI (115 Hp) DSG represents a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and dynamic styling from the Spanish automaker, SEAT. As part of the Volkswagen Group, SEAT is renowned for infusing a youthful, sporty character into its vehicles, primarily targeting European markets. This particular iteration, a third-generation Leon Sport Tourer (ST) with a mid-cycle refresh in 2016, showcases SEAT’s commitment to delivering versatile and well-engineered compact family vehicles. The “ST” designation signifies its station wagon body style, offering enhanced cargo capacity without sacrificing the agile driving dynamics for which the Leon is known. Equipped with a frugal yet spirited 1.0-liter TSI engine and a sophisticated DSG automatic transmission, this model was designed to navigate the demands of daily commuting and longer journeys with impressive fuel economy and a refined driving experience, catering to the discerning European consumer.

The Seat Leon III ST (facelift 2016) 1.0 TSI (115 Hp) DSG: A European Compact Standard

Introduced in 2016, the facelifted third-generation Seat Leon ST continued the model’s trajectory as a strong contender in the highly competitive European compact segment. While SEAT vehicles are not typically sold in the United States, their engineering prowess, shared with other Volkswagen Group brands like Audi and Volkswagen, is globally recognized. The Leon III ST, in particular, carved out a niche for itself by combining the practicality of a station wagon with SEAT’s distinctive sharp design language and engaging driving characteristics. The 2016 facelift brought subtle yet effective enhancements, including revised exterior styling elements, updated interior trim, and advancements in connectivity and driver assistance systems, ensuring the Leon remained fresh and competitive through its production run until 2020. This specific variant, featuring the 1.0 TSI engine paired with a DSG gearbox, highlights a strategic move towards smaller, turbocharged engines that deliver robust performance alongside exceptional fuel efficiency, a critical factor in European markets.

Powertrain and Performance Dynamics

At the heart of the Seat Leon III ST (facelift 2016) 1.0 TSI (115 Hp) DSG lies a highly efficient and surprisingly potent 1.0-liter (999 cm³ or 60.96 cu. in.) three-cylinder turbocharged engine, codenamed CHZD. This compact powerplant generates a respectable 115 horsepower, available across a broad range from 5000 to 5500 rpm, and an impressive 147.51 lb.-ft. (200 Nm) of torque, peaking between 2000 and 3500 rpm. The torque delivery, characteristic of turbocharged engines, ensures brisk acceleration and flexible in-gear performance, making it well-suited for both city driving and highway cruising. Power is efficiently managed through a 7-speed automatic DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmission, which is celebrated for its rapid, seamless gear changes and contribution to overall fuel economy. This sophisticated dual-clutch system enhances the driving experience by providing a direct connection between the engine and the wheels, minimizing power loss and maximizing responsiveness.

Performance figures for this powertrain are commendable for its class and engine size. The Leon ST 1.0 TSI accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 9.3 seconds, with a 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint taking 9.8 seconds. Its top speed reaches 125.52 mph (202 km/h), demonstrating its capability on open roads. Critically, the vehicle excels in fuel efficiency, boasting a combined fuel consumption of 53.5 US mpg (4.4 l/100 km). This exceptional economy is paired with low CO2 emissions of 102 g/km, adhering to the stringent Euro 6 emission standard, making it an environmentally conscious choice. The engine’s layout is front, transverse, driving the front wheels, a common and efficient architecture for compact vehicles. The lightweight construction, with a curb weight of 2610.27 lbs. (1184 kg), contributes to a favorable power-to-weight ratio of 10.3 kg/Hp (97.1 Hp/tonne), further enhancing its dynamic capabilities and efficiency.

Design, Features, and Practicality

The design of the Seat Leon III ST (facelift 2016) is a testament to SEAT’s “auto emoción” philosophy, blending sharp lines and athletic proportions with the inherent practicality of a station wagon. The exterior received subtle but effective updates during the facelift, including revised bumpers, updated lighting signatures, and new wheel designs, lending it a more contemporary and refined appearance. The five-door, five-seat station wagon body style, often referred to as an “estate” in Europe, maximizes utility, making it an ideal choice for families or individuals requiring significant cargo space. With a minimum trunk (boot) space of 20.73 cu. ft. (587 liters), the Leon ST offers ample room for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment, significantly more than its hatchback counterpart. The overall dimensions, including a length of 179.09 inches (4549 mm), a width of 71.5 inches (1816 mm), and a height of 57.24 inches (1454 mm), contribute to a spacious cabin and a substantial road presence, while a wheelbase of 103.78 inches (2636 mm) ensures stable handling.

Inside, the Leon ST offers a well-appointed and ergonomically designed cabin. While specific details of the facelifted interior features are not provided, typical enhancements in this segment would include updated infotainment systems with improved connectivity options, higher-quality materials, and additional comfort features. Safety is addressed with standard features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), providing crucial assistance during emergency braking. The vehicle’s driving dynamics are supported by an independent McPherson strut front suspension with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, paired with a semi-independent rear suspension with coil springs, striking a balance between comfort and agile handling. The steering system utilizes an electric power-assisted rack and pinion setup, offering precise control and ease of maneuverability, particularly in urban environments with a minimum turning circle of 33.79 ft. (10.3 m). Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and disc brakes at the rear, ensuring confident stopping power. The available tire sizes (195/65 R15 or 205/55 R16) and corresponding wheel rim sizes (15 or 16 inches) further contribute to the car’s balanced ride and handling characteristics.

Technical Specifications