The SEAT Leon III ST (facelift 2016) 1.5 TSI (150 Hp) is a compact station wagon that was produced from 2018 to 2020. As a model primarily sold within the European market, the Leon ST occupies a significant position in the competitive C-segment, offering a practical and stylish alternative to traditional hatchbacks and sedans. SEAT, a Spanish automobile manufacturer now owned by the Volkswagen Group, designed the Leon to appeal to buyers seeking a blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and versatility. The “ST” designation signifies the “Sport Tourer” or station wagon body style, emphasizing its increased cargo capacity and family-friendly nature. This facelifted version, introduced in 2016, brought updated styling, improved technology, and refined engine options, including the 1.5 TSI petrol engine detailed here.
SEAT Leon III ST 1.5 TSI: Overview
The Leon III ST represents the third generation of the Leon, a model that has been a cornerstone of SEAT’s lineup since its introduction in 1999. The ST variant, specifically, caters to customers who prioritize space and practicality without sacrificing driving enjoyment. The 1.5 TSI engine, a key feature of this model, is part of Volkswagen Group’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and responsiveness. This particular iteration of the Leon ST was not officially sold in the United States, but it exemplifies the European approach to compact car design – prioritizing fuel economy, nimble handling, and a well-appointed interior.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the SEAT Leon III ST 1.5 TSI is a 1.5-liter, inline-four cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-3500 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and an intercooled turbocharger to optimize performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. This configuration allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.2 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds. The engine’s relatively small displacement, combined with turbocharging, results in a power-to-liter ratio of 100.1 hp/l. The engine meets Euro 6 emission standards, incorporating a particulate filter to reduce harmful emissions. Maximum speed is electronically limited to 215 km/h (133.59 mph).
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III ST is a five-door, five-seat station wagon. Its exterior design is characterized by sharp lines, a sporty stance, and a distinctive front grille. The facelifted model features redesigned headlights and taillights, along with a revised front bumper, contributing to a more modern and aggressive appearance. Inside, the Leon ST offers a comfortable and well-equipped cabin. Key features include a user-friendly infotainment system, supportive seats, and a spacious interior for passengers. The station wagon body style provides a generous 587 liters (20.73 cu. ft.) of trunk space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1470 liters (51.91 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a robust chassis designed for responsive handling. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs) contributes to its agile driving dynamics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III ST (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TSI (150 Hp) |
| 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) | 6.4-6.7 l/100 km (36.8 – 35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1-4.5 l/100 km (57.4 – 52.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.0-5.3 l/100 km (47 – 44.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 113-120 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 125 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 208.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA211evo / DADA, DPCA |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.9 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 587 l (20.73 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1470 l (51.91 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4549 mm (179.09 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Height | 1454 mm (57.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
