The SEAT Leon III ST Cupra 2.0 TSI (290 Hp) DSG, produced from 2018 to 2020, represents a performance-oriented variant of SEAT’s compact estate car. As part of the Leon III generation, which underwent a facelift in 2016, the Cupra model aimed to deliver a blend of practicality, sporty handling, and respectable power. While SEAT is a Spanish automobile manufacturer, it is a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group and the Leon has always been closely related to Volkswagen’s Golf and Škoda’s Octavia. The Leon ST (Station Wagon) body style, and particularly the Cupra trim, was primarily marketed in Europe, offering a compelling alternative to traditional hot hatches and performance saloons.
SEAT Leon III ST Cupra: A Performance Estate
The Leon III ST Cupra occupied a niche market segment, appealing to drivers seeking a versatile vehicle capable of both everyday duties and spirited driving. It distinguished itself from the standard Leon ST through its more powerful engine, upgraded brakes, sport-tuned suspension, and distinctive styling cues. The “Cupra” designation, historically used by SEAT for its performance models, signified a commitment to enhanced driving dynamics and a more aggressive aesthetic.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Leon III ST Cupra 2.0 TSI (290 Hp) DSG lies a 2.0-liter, turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, identified by the code DNUC, produces 290 horsepower at 5,400-6,500 rpm and 380 Nm (280.27 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,950 and 5,300 rpm. The engine features direct fuel injection and an intercooler to optimize performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), enabling rapid gear changes and contributing to the car’s brisk acceleration. The engine’s output translates to a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 6.3 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 6.0 seconds. The maximum speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). The engine’s specific output is notable, generating 146.2 horsepower per liter of displacement.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III ST Cupra is a five-door, five-seat station wagon (estate). The ST body style provides a significant advantage in terms of cargo capacity compared to the hatchback version. The Cupra trim level adds several visual enhancements, including a more aggressive front bumper, a rear spoiler, distinctive alloy wheels, and Cupra-specific badging. Inside, the Cupra features sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and aluminum pedals. Standard equipment included ABS (Anti-lock braking system), and electric power steering. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 1,401 kg (3,088.68 lbs) contributes to its agile handling. The trunk offers a minimum of 587 liters (20.73 cu. ft.) of storage space, expanding to 1,470 liters (51.91 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The car adheres to Euro 6 emission standards, incorporating a particulate filter to reduce harmful emissions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III ST (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | Cupra 2.0 TSI (290 Hp) DSG |
| 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) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.8 kg/Hp, 207 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 271.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 290 Hp @ 5400-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 146.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1950-5300 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 1950-5300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DNUC |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1401 kg (3088.68 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2020 kg (4453.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 619 kg (1364.66 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) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4548 mm (179.06 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1975 mm (77.76 in.) |
| Height | 1431 mm (56.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2631 mm (103.58 in.) |
| Front track | 1534-1549 mm (60.39 – 60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1501-1520 mm (59.09 – 59.84 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
The SEAT Leon III ST Cupra 2.0 TSI (290 Hp) DSG offered a compelling package for drivers seeking a practical, yet engaging, performance estate. Its combination of a potent turbocharged engine, responsive DSG transmission, and spacious interior made it a popular choice in the European market.
