The SEAT Toledo IV (NH) 1.6 TDI, produced from 2013 to 2015, represents a significant iteration in SEAT’s compact car lineup. While not officially sold in the United States, the Toledo held a prominent position in the European market as a practical and affordable compact hatchback, offering a blend of space, efficiency, and value. It served as a key model for SEAT, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile vehicle for daily commuting and family use. The “NH” designation refers to the fourth generation of the Toledo, which adopted a more conventional hatchback design compared to the earlier, more notchback-styled models.
SEAT Toledo IV (NH) 1.6 TDI: Overview and Market Position
The Toledo IV aimed to bridge the gap between smaller city cars and larger family vehicles. It competed with models like the Volkswagen Golf, Skoda Octavia, and Ford Focus, offering a compelling alternative with its spacious interior and competitive pricing. The 1.6 TDI variant, equipped with a diesel engine and a dual-clutch gearbox (DSG), was a popular choice for European drivers prioritizing fuel economy and low running costs. The Toledo’s design focused on practicality, offering a generous boot space and comfortable seating for five passengers.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the SEAT Toledo IV 1.6 TDI is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the CAYB. This engine produces 90 horsepower at 4,200 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,500 and 2,500 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), providing smooth and rapid gear changes. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.2 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 11.6 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 184 km/h (114.33 mph). The engine’s relatively modest power output is offset by its strong low-end torque, making it well-suited for everyday driving conditions. The weight-to-power ratio is 14.3 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.6 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The SEAT Toledo IV (NH) is a five-door hatchback, characterized by its clean lines and functional design. It offers a spacious interior for its class, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The trunk capacity is a notable 550 liters (19.42 cu. ft.), making it one of the most practical vehicles in its segment. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Safety features, crucial in modern vehicles, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and driver/passenger airbags. The Toledo’s suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and a coil spring arrangement at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. Steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance. The vehicle rides on either 15-inch or 16-inch wheel rims, fitted with tires sized 185/60 R15 or 215/45 R16 respectively.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Toledo |
| Generation | Toledo IV (NH) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (90 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | June, 2013 |
| End of production | June, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| CO2 emissions | 118 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 56.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CAYB |
| 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 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 | 1285 kg (2832.94 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 | 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 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 1.6 TDI, while not available in the US market, represents a well-rounded and practical compact hatchback that was popular in Europe. Its combination of fuel efficiency, spaciousness, and affordability made it a compelling choice for a wide range of buyers. The vehicle’s design and features reflect the priorities of the European automotive market during its production years, emphasizing practicality and value.
