The SEAT Toledo IV (NH) 1.6 TDI, produced from 2012 to 2015, represents a significant iteration in SEAT’s compact car lineup. Positioned as a practical and affordable hatchback, the Toledo aimed to bridge the gap between smaller city cars and larger family vehicles, primarily targeting the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding the Toledo provides insight into SEAT’s engineering and design philosophies during this period. The fourth generation Toledo distinguished itself with a focus on interior space and value, offering a compelling alternative to established competitors like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus.
SEAT Toledo IV (NH) 1.6 TDI: Overview and Market Position
The Toledo name has a long history within SEAT, dating back to the 1980s. The fourth generation, designated NH, marked a departure from previous iterations, adopting a more conventional hatchback body style. This shift was intended to broaden the car’s appeal and enhance its practicality. SEAT, as a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, leverages shared platforms and technologies. The Toledo IV is based on the Volkswagen Polo platform, benefiting from VW’s engineering expertise and component standardization. In Europe, the Toledo competed in the compact segment, emphasizing fuel efficiency, spaciousness, and a relatively low price point. It was marketed towards families and individuals seeking a versatile and economical vehicle for daily use.
Engine & Performance
The 1.6 TDI variant of the Toledo IV is powered by a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, identified by the codes CLNA and CAYC, produces 105 horsepower at 4400 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 2500 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. The diesel commonrail fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, contributing to both power output and reduced emissions. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.4 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 9.9 seconds. The top speed is rated at 190 km/h (118.06 mph). The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 16.5:1 is typical for diesel engines, maximizing combustion efficiency. The power-to-weight ratio is 12 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 5.1 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The SEAT Toledo IV (NH) is a five-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. Its design prioritizes practicality and interior space. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4482 mm (176.46 in) in length, 1706 mm (67.17 in) in width, and 1461 mm (57.52 in) in height – provide a generous cabin and a substantial trunk capacity of 550 liters (19.42 cu. ft.). The Toledo IV features a relatively simple and functional interior design, focusing on durability and ease of use. Standard features typically included power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Safety features, common for vehicles of this era, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and front airbags. The suspension system consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and a coil spring arrangement at the rear, providing a comfortable ride. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance. Wheel sizes ranged from 15 to 16 inches, with tire sizes of 185/60 R15 and 215/45 R16 being common.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Toledo |
| Generation | Toledo IV (NH) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (105 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 2012 |
| End of production | June, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CLNA, CAYC |
| 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 | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| 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 | 1265 kg (2788.85 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1725 kg (3802.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4482 mm (176.46 in.) |
| Width | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Height | 1461 mm (57.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2602 mm (102.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1463 mm (57.6 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/60 R15; 215/45 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
The SEAT Toledo IV (NH) 1.6 TDI, while not a performance car, offered a compelling package of practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability. Its position in the European market as a versatile hatchback made it a popular choice for those seeking a sensible and economical vehicle.
