The SEAT León III ST (facelift 2016) 1.6 TDI 4Drive is a compact station wagon produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT from 2018 to 2020. As a member of the third generation of the León, the ST (SportTourer) variant offered increased practicality and cargo space compared to the hatchback model. This particular version, equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged diesel engine and all-wheel drive (4Drive), was primarily aimed at the European market, where compact wagons remain a popular choice. While SEAT vehicles are not officially sold in the United States, the León represents a significant model in its segment, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf Estate and Skoda Octavia Combi.
SEAT León III ST 1.6 TDI 4Drive: Overview
The facelifted León III, introduced in 2016, brought styling updates and technological enhancements to the range. The 1.6 TDI 4Drive model specifically catered to buyers seeking fuel efficiency combined with enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The 4Drive system provides all-wheel drive capability, distributing power between the front and rear axles as needed. This model occupied a niche within the León lineup, offering a practical and economical option for families and individuals requiring a versatile vehicle.
Engine & Performance
The SEAT León III ST 1.6 TDI 4Drive is powered by a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated DDYA. This engine produces 115 horsepower at 3250-4000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-3250 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. The combination of a relatively small displacement engine and a turbocharger allows for a balance between fuel economy and usable power. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11.1 seconds and a top speed of 192 km/h (119.3 mph). Calculated 0-60 mph acceleration is 10.5 seconds. The weight-to-power ratio is 12.2 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.6 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonable level of performance for its class.
Design & Features
The SEAT León III ST is a five-door station wagon with a sleek and modern design. The facelifted model features revised front and rear styling, including updated headlights and taillights, as well as a redesigned front grille. The interior offers seating for five passengers and provides a comfortable and functional cabin environment. Key features include a spacious cargo area with a minimum capacity of 587 liters (20.73 cu. ft.), making it suitable for carrying luggage, groceries, or other items. The 4Drive system adds to the vehicle’s practicality by providing improved grip and stability on slippery surfaces. Standard safety features typically include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and electric power steering. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4549 mm (179.09 in) in length, 1816 mm (71.5 in) in width, and 1454 mm (57.24 in) in height. The wheelbase measures 2636 mm (103.78 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III ST (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (115 Hp) 4Drive |
| Start of production | 2018 year |
| End of production | 2020 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h / 119.3 mph |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp, 81.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 177.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3250-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3250 rpm / 184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3250 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DDYA |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 / 97.52 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm / 3.13 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm / 3.17 in. |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l / 4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt |
| Coolant | 8 l / 8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1407 kg / 3101.9 lbs |
| Max. weight | 2020 kg / 4453.34 lbs |
| Max load | 613 kg / 1351.43 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 587 l / 20.73 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l / 14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1800 kg / 3968.32 lbs |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg / 3306.93 lbs |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 740 kg / 1631.42 lbs |
| Length | 4549 mm / 179.09 in |
| Width | 1816 mm / 71.5 in |
| Width including mirrors | 1975 mm / 77.76 in |
| Height | 1454 mm / 57.24 in |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm / 103.78 in |
| Front track | 1549 mm / 60.98 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1520 mm / 59.84 in |
| Front overhang | 861 mm / 33.9 in |
| Rear overhang | 1052 mm / 41.42 in |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.3 m / 33.79 ft |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 288 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 253 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 91H; 205/55 R16 91V; 225/45 R17 91W; 205/50 R17 93V |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 16; 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17 |
The SEAT León III ST 1.6 TDI 4Drive represented a practical and efficient option for European buyers seeking a versatile compact station wagon. Its combination of a fuel-efficient diesel engine, all-wheel drive capability, and spacious interior made it a compelling choice in its segment.
