SEAT León

          The SEAT León (Spanish pronunciation: [ˈse.at leˈon]) is a small family car built by the Spanish car manufacturer SEAT since October 1998.^[1]

The two León generations have been built upon two differing variants of theVolkswagen Group A platform, and they share many components with theVolkswagen Golf, Volkswagen Jetta, Audi TT, Audi A3 and Škoda Octavia.

First generation (Typ 1M; 1999–2006)[edit source]

SEAT León Mk1 (1M)

Production	1999 – May 2006
Assembly	Martorell, Spain Brussels, Belgium
Platform	Volkswagen Group A4 (PQ34)
Engine	Petrol engines: 1.4 L I4 16v, 1.6 L I4 8v, 1.6 L I4 16v, 1.8 L I4 20v, 1.8 L I4 20v Turbo, 2.8 L VR6 24v Diesel engines: 1.9 L I4 SDI, 1.9 L I4 TDI, 1.9 L I4 TDI PD
Transmission	4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual
Wheelbase	2,513 mm (98.9 in)
Length	4,183 mm (164.7 in)
Width	1,742 mm (68.6 in)
Height	1,439 mm (56.7 in)
Kerb weight	1,210–1,628 kg (2,700–3,590 lb)
Related	Audi A3 Mk1 Audi TT Mk1 Volkswagen Golf Mk4 Volkswagen Bora Volkswagen New Beetle SEAT Toledo Mk2 Škoda Octavia Mk1
Designer(s)	Giorgetto Giugiaro

SEAT León Mk1, side view

The initial SEAT León (Volkswagen Group Typ 1M), launched in 1999,^[2]available only as hatchback, and the related saloon version was known as the SEAT Toledo. It was based on theVolkswagen Group A4 (PQ34) platformand, as such, shared many components in common with other VW Group models such as the Volkswagen Golf Mk4, Bora and Audi A3. As SEAT's first C-segment model as part of the VW Group, the León Mk1 was marketed as a sportier and cheaper variant of the Golf. To reinforce the sporty image, the vehicle had slightly more aggressive looks. The more expensive versions were equipped with relatively more powerful internal combustion engines, along with firmer suspension to improve handling. In the interior, the dashboardwas derived from that of the first-generation Audi A3.^[3]

SEAT León Mk1 interior

Available engines were the 1.4 litre16 valve petrol engine which produced a 55 kilowatts (75 PS; 74 bhp), a 1.6 litre 8 valve petrol engine 74 kilowatts (101 PS; 99 bhp) (replaced later with a 16 valve 77 kilowatts (105 PS; 103 bhp) unit), and included two variants of the Volkswagen Group's 20 valveturbocharged 1.8 litre powerplant, (with some countries also getting the 2.8 litreVR6 engine delivering 150 kilowatts (204 PS; 201 bhp). The original "León 20VT" (which later became known as the "Cupra" and then the "FR") had a 1.8 litre Turbo with 132 kilowatts (179 PS; 177 bhp), and the "León Cupra R" 154 kilowatts (209 PS; 207 bhp), later becoming 165 kilowatts (224 PS; 221 bhp).

In some countries, there was also a "Cupra 4"; equipped with a 2.8 litre VR6 delivering 150 kilowatts (204 PS; 201 bhp) and equipped with four-wheel drive(4WD), based on the same Haldex Traction multi-plate clutch as the Volkswagen Golf 4motion.^[4]

SEAT León Mk1 TDI, rear view

A range of Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) diesel engines was available, including a 110 kilowatts (150 PS; 148 bhp) version of Volkswagen Group's 1.9 TDI engine, originally sold as a "Cupra 4 TDI", with 4WD, that was sold for one year only, and only in certain countries, then passed to "Evolution" series, then "Top Sport", and later rebranded as the "FR" ('Formula Racing'). In other countries the model was badged "Cupra" and then "FR" before a limited number of cars were fitted with the bodykit from the petrol powered "Cupra R" and named the "FR+". Lesser diesel versions were available with 66 kilowatts (90 PS; 89 bhp), 81 kilowatts (110 PS; 109 bhp) and 96 kilowatts (131 PS; 129 bhp) outputs.

SEAT León Mk1 instrument panel

All engines over 96 kilowatts (131 PS; 129 bhp) have a standard six-speed manual transmission. Rear suspension was by semi-independent torsion beam for most variants, whilst high-end and 4WD models were fitted with a multi-link independent rear suspension. All versions came with disc brakes on all four roadwheels (the front ventilated, and in some cars the rear too).

SEAT León Mk1 ABT

In Mexico, the León became a very popular car with upper class young people.^{[citation needed]} The only problem the León has suffered in Mexico is the fact that the sport tuned suspension of the León is not designed to withstand the constant road imperfections such as potholes and speed bumps that abound in Mexican roads.

In Switzerland, there was another official version tuned by Abt Sportsline of the León called "SEAT León Cupra 4 Kompressor". This version had the same 4WD and 2.8 litre VR6 but with 206 kilowatts (280 PS; 276 bhp) and 323 newton metres (238 lbf·ft) of torque.^[5][6][7]

SEAT León Mk1 Mossos d'Esquadrapolice car

Factory production of the Typ 1M ended in May 2006.^[1] However, the appreciation for the SEAT León Cupra R Mk1's appeal remained clear - still up to the 'best hot hatchback of all time' poll conducted in 2010 by the British magazineAutocar, in which its readers honoured the Cupra R with the seventh position in the top ten list of hatchbacks of all time in their preferences.^[8]

Awards[edit source]

SEAT León Mk1 TDI engine compartment

• 'Carro do Ano' (Car of the Year) award in 2001, in Portugal;^[9]
• 'Most Satisfactory Car of the Year 2007' in Poland, by the Polish magazine Auto Swiat.

Engine choices[edit source]

The Typ 1M SEAT León was available with the following internal combustion engines, with most being shared from other marques of the Volkswagen Group:^[1]

engine designation	displacement, configuration, valvetrain, fuel system	max. motive power at rpm	max. torque at rpm	engine ID code(s)	dates
petrol engines all multi-point electronic indirect fuel injection
1.4 16v	1390 cc inline-4 DOHC 16v	55 kW (75 PS; 74 bhp) @ 5,000	126 N·m (93 lbf·ft) @ 3,800	AHW; APE; AUA; AXP; BCA	11/99– 10/05
1.6	1595 cc inline-4 SOHC 8v	74 kW (101 PS; 99 bhp) @ 5,600	145 N·m (107 lbf·ft) @ 3,800	AEH; AKL	08/99– 10/05
1.6	1595 cc inline-4 SOHC 8v	75 kW (102 PS; 101 bhp) @ 5,600	148 N·m (109 lbf·ft) @ 3,800	BFQ	10/05– 06/06
1.6 16v	1598 cc inline-4 DOHC 16v	77 kW (105 PS; 103 bhp) @ 5,700	148 N·m (109 lbf·ft) @ 4,500	AUS; AZD; BCB	06/00– 06/06
1.8 20v	1781 cc inline-4 DOHC 20v	92 kW (125 PS; 123 bhp) @ 6,000	170 N·m (125 lbf·ft) @ 4,200	AGN; APG	11/99– 10/05
1.8 20vT Cupra	1781 cc inline-4 DOHC 20v Turbo	132 kW (179 PS; 177 bhp) @ 5,500	235 N·m (173 lbf·ft) @ 1,950–5,000	AJQ; APP; ARY; AUQ	08/99– 10/05
1.8 20vT Cupra R	1781 cc inline-4 DOHC 20v Turbo	154 kW (209 PS; 207 bhp)	270 N·m (199 lbf·ft)	AMK	05/02– 05/03
1.8 20vT Cupra R	1781 cc inline-4 DOHC 20v Turbo	165 kW (224 PS; 221 bhp) @ 5,900	280 N·m (207 lbf·ft) @ 2,200–5,500	BAM	05/03– 06/06
2.8 VR6 24v Cupra 4	2792 cc 15° VR6 DOHC 24v	150 kW (204 PS; 201 bhp) @ 6,200	265 N·m (195 lbf·ft) @ 3,400	AUE; BDE	10/00– 04/04
diesel engines all direct injected
1.9 SDI	1896 cc inline-4 SOHC 8v, VP37 distributor-type injection pump	50 kW (68 PS; 67 bhp) @ 4,000	133 N·m (98 lbf·ft) @ 1,800	AQM	06/00– 10/03
1.9 TDI	1896 cc inline-4 SOHC 8v, VP37 distributor-type injection pump	66 kW (90 PS; 89 bhp) @ 3,750	210 N·m (155 lbf·ft) @ 1,900	AGR; ALH	11/99– 10/05
1.9 TDI	1896 cc inline-4 SOHC 8v, Pumpe Düse Unit Injectors (PD)	74 kW (101 PS; 99 bhp) @ 4,000	240 N·m (177 lbf·ft) @ 1,800–2,400	AXR	10/05– 06/06
1.9 TDI	1896 cc inline-4 SOHC 8v, VP37 distributor-type injection pump	81 kW (110 PS; 109 bhp) @ 4,150	235 N·m (173 lbf·ft) @ 1,900	AHF; ASV	10/99– 10/05
1.9 TDI	1896 cc inline-4 SOHC 8v, Pumpe Düse unit injectors (PD)	96 kW (131 PS; 129 bhp) @ 4,000	310 N·m (229 lbf·ft) @ 1,900	ASZ	05/03– 06/06
1.9 TDI	1896 cc inline-4 SOHC 8v, Pumpe Düse unit injectors (PD)	110 kW (150 PS; 148 bhp) @ 4,000	320 N·m (236 lbf·ft) @ 1,900	ARL	09/00– 12/05

Second generation (Typ 1P; 2005–2012)[edit source]

SEAT León Mk2 (1P)

Production	May 2005 – 2012 (2009 facelift)
Assembly	Martorell, Spain
Platform	Volkswagen Group A5 (PQ35)
Engine	Petrol engines: 1.2 L I4 16v TFSI, 1.4 L I4 16v, 1.4 L I4 16v TFSI, 1.6 L I4 8v, 1.8 L I4 16v TFSI, 2.0 L I4 16v FSI, 2.0 L I4 16v TFSI; LPG engines: 1.6 LPG Diesel engines: 1.6 L I4 TDI (planned for 2010) 1.9 L I4 TDI, 2.0 L I4 TDI
Transmission	5-speed manual 6-speed manual 6-speed Direct-Shift Gearbox 7-speed Direct-Shift Gearbox
Wheelbase	2,578 mm (101.5 in)
Length	4,315 mm (169.9 in)
Width	1,768 mm (69.6 in)
Height	1,459 mm (57.4 in)
Kerb weight	1,176–1,375 kg (2,590–3,030 lb)
Related	Audi A3 Mk2 Audi TT Mk2 Volkswagen Golf Mk5 Volkswagen Golf Mk6 Volkswagen Golf Plus Volkswagen Jetta Mk5 SEAT Toledo Mk3 SEAT Altea Škoda Octavia Mk2
Designer(s)	Walter de Silva

SEAT León Mk2

SEAT León Cupra

The second generation León, Typ 1P, was released in 2005, with factory production commencing May 2005.^[1] It is based on the Volkswagen Group A5 (PQ35) platform, most notably used by the Volkswagen Golf Mk5. It is built in Spain, and has a sharper exterior look with vertically parked windscreen wipers, and the external rear door handles more integrated, in a similar style to that seen on recent Alfa Romeomodels. Design was handled by Walter de'Silva, and the car uses the same design style that started with the SEAT Altea.

The base model on offer is the new 16 valve 1.2 litre TSI petrol engine with 77 kilowatts (105 PS; 103 bhp).^[10] In some markets (e.g. Greece and Italy), the León is available with a 1.4 litre MPI engine producing 63 kilowatts (86 PS; 84 bhp). The sportier variants begin with the 110 kilowatts (150 PS; 148 bhp) 2.0 litre Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) and the popular 103 kilowatts (140 PS; 138 bhp) 2.0 litre Turbocharged Direct Injection(TDI) diesel engine. Both are fitted with a standard six-speed manual transmission, with the six-speed or seven-speed Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) available as an option. A 136 kilowatts (185 PS; 182 bhp) variant of the 2.0 TFSI unique to the León was later introduced, but despite a low list price and rapid performance – attracted only minimal attention and average reviews, so this was later discontinued to make way for the sportier FR variants.

The first real sporty León within the new range is the León FR with twin-exhaust pipes to left rear, sport seats and gear stick with FR logo to distinguish it from lesser models, was introduced in June 2006, when it finally received the 147 kilowatts (200 PS; 197 bhp) 2.0 TFSI engine from the Volkswagen Golf Mk5 GTI, as well as a 125 kilowatts (170 PS; 168 bhp) variant of the 2.0 TDI unit featured in the Golf and Audi A3. Further standard equipment includes climate control air conditioning.

Next in the range is the 2.0 TFSI Cupra model. It features a 177 kilowatts (241 PS; 237 bhp) engine, and a 0-100 kilometres per hour (62.1 mph) time of 6.4 seconds. The Cupra comes with standard 18" 5 twin-spoke alloys, red brake calipers, and the standard Cupra oval exhaust, as well as new, unique paint finishes and bolstered sport seats complete with the Cupra logo. Also standard are drilled-aluminium sports pedals.

SEAT León Mk2 pre-facelift interior

SEAT León Mk2 pre-facelift instrument panel

At the top of the range is the 2.0 TFSI Cupra R. This uses the same 195 kilowatts (265 PS; 261 bhp) engine found in the Audi S3, Golf R and Scirocco R. Capable of 0–100 kilometres per hour (62.1 mph) in 6.2 seconds and a top speed limited to 250 kilometres per hour (155 mph).

From 2008, the K1 variant of the León Cupra was introduced in the UK, featuring extensively re-worked front and rear bumpers, side skirts, a more pronounced tailgate spoiler. It also gained a unique chrome-tipped, centrally-mounted, oval exhaust. The K1 is considered to be a limited edition model, as production was only for the year 2008–2009 and it only being available in the UK.

In 2009, the SEAT León Cupra was turned into a race car in the 'SEAT Cupra race' mobile game for Apple iPhone/iPod touch available through the iTunes' App store.^[11]

Awards[edit source]

SEAT León Mk2 Cupra police car

• 'Red dot' award in 2006 ^[12]
• 'Best Car of the Year 2009' for the import compact car segment in Germany, by the German magazine Auto-motor-und-sport^[13]
• 'Firmenauto des Jahres 2006', by the German magazine Firmenauto ^[14]
• 'Car of the Year 2006' in Denmark ^[15]
• 'Diesel Car of the Year 2006' in Scotland (for the 170 hp 2.0 TDI Leon FR) ^[16]
• ‘Auto 1’ of the Year 2006 in Spain, by the ‘Auto Bild’ magazine
• 'University Car of the Year 2007' in Spain, by Spanish university students ^[17]
• 'Hellenic Car of the Year 2007' ^[18]
• 'GTI of the Year 2006–2007' in Greece for the SEAT León Cupra, by the Greek magazine 4-Trohoi ^[19]

Special editions[edit source]

Copa Edition[edit source]

Mexican orange SEAT León Copa Edition

In 2008, SEAT Deutschland announced the production of 55 units of the SEAT León Copa Edition.^[20] This limited edition is powered with 2.0 TFSI engine improved to 210 kilowatts(286 PS; 282 bhp) of maximum power, and 360 newton metres (266 lbf·ft). Maximum speed is 255 kilometres per hour (158.4 mph) and 0-100 km/h (62.1 mph) time is 5.9 seconds.^[21]The suspension is an Eibach^{[disambiguation needed]} derived from the León Supercopa, and thebrakes have been improved to cope with the enhanced performance from the uprated engine. In addition, the car includes xenon HID headlights, 18 inch wheels and a spoiler with larger air intakes.^[22] The car colour is white with black stripes.

SEAT México announced the production of 100 units of the Copa Edition in orange colour with black stripes in September 2008.^[23] The Mexican version has a sunroof, whilst the European León Copa does not.

Streetcopa and World Champion Edition[edit source]

At the 2008 Geneva Auto Show, the León Streetcopa limited edition was released. It was a similar edition of León Copa Edition with some changes, designed for the Swiss market and limited to 200 units.^[24][25] Lately, after SEAT won World Touring Car Championship, SEAT Schweiz released a facelifted version called León World Champion Edition, also limited to 200 units.^[26]

SEAT León Mk2 Cupra facelift

Cupra 310 Limited Edition[edit source]

SEAT Nederland announces the production of León Cupra 310 Limited Edition, with 2.0 TFSI engine upgraded to 228 kilowatts (310 PS; 306 bhp) of maximum power and 425 newton metres (313 lbf·ft).^[27] The production has limited to 100 units.^[28]

SEAT León Cupra Pies Descalzos

It comes only in Candy white or Infiri black. The Cupra 310 Limited Edition features beside the OEM Cupra equipment an engine management remapping by Abt Sportsline, black Orion-alloy wheels, an alarm system, bluetooth connectivity and special 310 Limited Edition badges on the sides and the rear hatch. There are also stainless decals inside the front door frames displaying the 310 Ltd logo. A badge on the dashboard displays the serial number, and the car is delivered with a key ring to match. Full factory warranty is retained with the power increase that increases the top speed to 259 kilometres per hour (160.9 mph).

Cupra Pies Descalzos[edit source]

In 2007, SEAT prepared a sole car customized by Shakira. This car was auctioned, and the benefits went to the charity through Pies Descalzos Foundation. Mechanically, it is the same car as the León Cupra.

León Twin Drive concepts[edit source]

SEAT has produced two versions of the Twin Drive prototype. Initially announced in May 2009^[29] as a diesel/battery hybrid, the León Twin Drive Ecomotive is a series plug-in hybrid, powered by an electric motor, through lithium-ion batteries chargeable at a regular electrical socket, in combination with a diesel-powered internal combustion engine.^[30] The Twin Drive Ecomotive project is a first step towards a 100% electric car and is planned to go for production in 2014.^[31]

The Twin Drive Ecomotive as a plug-in hybrid vehicle powered through the combination of both a diesel engine and an electric motor.^[32]The vehicle's electric motor has an output of 35 KW and a self-imposed top speed of 100 km/h, and resumes power from Li-ion batteries placed at the rear of the vehicle, giving it a range of about 50 km for short urban circuits, while for longer trips the environmentally friendly tuned combustion engine is used. Quick battery recharging process from the mains through regular power sockets features.^[33]

In 2011, a revised version of the Twin Drive was shown to the press, with a 1.4TSI petrol engine producing 113 bhp (84 kW; 115 PS) in addition to a 40 bhp (30 kW; 41 PS) generator and an electric motor of 113 bhp (84 kW; 115 PS), producing a combined limited output of 161 bhp (120 kW; 163 PS) and emitting a low 39g/km of CO2, with production now estimated in 2015.^[34]

Engine specifications[edit source]

The Typ 1P SEAT León is available with the following internal combustion engines, and like the previous generation, many are shared from other marques of the Volkswagen Group:^[1]

all available internal combustion engines are inline four cylinder (I4) four-stroke designs
engine designation / model	engine displacement	valvetrain, fuel system	max. motive power at rpm	max. torque at rpm	engine ID code(s)	dates
petrol engines all fuel injected
1.2 TSI	1197 cc	8v SOHC Fuel Stratified Injection	77 kW (105 PS; 103 bhp) @ 5,000 rpm	175 N·m (129 lbf·ft) @ 1,550–5100 rpm	CBZ	2010– present
1.4	1390 cc	16v DOHC multi-point fuel injection	63 kW (86 PS; 84 bhp) @ 5,000 rpm	130 N·m (96 lbf·ft) @ 3,600 rpm	BXW/CGG	2007– present
1.4 TSI	1390 cc	16v DOHC Fuel Stratified Injection	92 kW (125 PS; 123 bhp) @ 5,600 rpm	200 N·m (148 lbf·ft) @ 1,500–4,000 rpm	CAXC	2007– present
1.6	1595 cc	8v SOHC multi-point fuel injection	75 kW (102 PS; 101 bhp) @ 5,600 rpm	148 N·m (109 lbf·ft) @ 3,800 rpm	BSE/ BSF/CCSA	2005– present
1.8 TSI	1798 cc	16v DOHC Fuel Stratified Injection	118 kW (160 PS; 158 bhp) @ 4,500–6,200 rpm	250 N·m (184 lbf·ft) @ 1,500–4,500 rpm	BZB/ CDAA	2007– present
2.0 FSI	1984 cc	16v DOHC Fuel Stratified Injection	110 kW (150 PS; 148 bhp) @ 6,000 rpm	200 N·m (148 lbf·ft) @ 3,500 rpm	BLR/BLY BVY/BVZ	2005– 2009
2.0 TFSI	1984 cc	16v DOHC Fuel Stratified Injection	136 kW (185 PS; 182 bhp) @ 5,100–6,000 rpm	270 N·m (199 lbf·ft) @ 1,800–5,000 rpm	BWA	2005– 2006
2.0 TFSI (TSI) FR	1984 cc	16v DOHC Fuel Stratified Injection	147 kW (200 PS; 197 bhp) @ 5,100–6,000 rpm	280 N·m (207 lbf·ft) @ 1,800–5,000 rpm	BWA	2006– 2009
2.0 TSI FR	1984 cc	16v DOHC Fuel Stratified Injection	154 kW (209 PS; 207 bhp) @ 5,300–6,200 rpm	280 N·m (207 lbf·ft) @ 1,700–5,200 rpm	CCZB/ CAWB	2009– present
2.0 TSI Cupra	1984 cc	16v DOHC Fuel Stratified Injection	177 kW (241 PS; 237 bhp) @ 5,700–6,300 rpm	320 N·m (236 lbf·ft) @ 2,200–5,500 rpm	BWJ	2006– present
2.0 TSI Cupra R	1984 cc	16v DOHC Fuel Stratified Injection	195 kW (265 PS; 261 bhp) @ 6,000 rpm	350 N·m (258 lbf·ft) @ 2,500–5,000 rpm	CDLA	2009– present
2.0 TFSI Copa Edition	1984 cc	16v DOHC Fuel Stratified Injection	210 kW (286 PS; 282 bhp) @ 6,000 rpm	360 N·m (266 lbf·ft) @ 2,500 rpm	N/A (EA113)	2008– present
2.0 TFSI Cupra 310 Limited Edition	1984 cc	16v DOHC Fuel Stratified Injection	228 kW (310 PS; 306 bhp) @ 6,000 rpm	425 N·m (313 lbf·ft) @ 3,000–5,000 rpm	N/A (EA113)	2008– 2009
Liquefied Petroleum Gas engines (LPG)
1.6 LPG	1595 cc		75 kW (102 PS; 101 bhp) @ 5,600 rpm	148 N·m (109 lbf·ft) @ 3,800 rpm	CHG	2009– present
diesel engines all Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI)
1.6 TDI DPF	1598 cc	16v DOHC common rail	77 kW (105 PS; 103 bhp) @ 4,400 rpm	250 N·m (184 lbf·ft) @ 1,500–2,500 rpm	CAYC	planned for 2010
1.9 TDI	1896 cc	8v SOHC Pumpe Düse Unit Injector	66 kW (90 PS; 89 bhp) @ 4,000 rpm	210 N·m (155 lbf·ft) @ 1,800–2,500 rpm	BXF	2007– present
1.9 TDI	1896 cc	8v SOHC Pumpe Düse Unit Injector	77 kW (105 PS; 103 bhp) @ 4,000 rpm	250 N·m (184 lbf·ft) @ 1,900 rpm	BKC/BLS BXE	2005– present
2.0 TDI	1968 cc	16v DOHC Pumpe Düse Unit Injector	100 kW (136 PS; 134 bhp) @ 4,000 rpm	320 N·m (236 lbf·ft) @ 1,750–2,500 rpm	AZV	2005– 2007
2.0 TDI	1968 cc	16v DOHC Pumpe Düse Unit Injector	103 kW (140 PS; 138 bhp) @ 4,000 rpm	320 N·m (236 lbf·ft) @ 1,750–2,500 rpm	BKD	2005– present
2.0 TDI DPF	1968 cc	8v SOHC Pumpe Düse Unit Injector	103 kW (140 PS; 138 bhp) @ 4,000 rpm	320 N·m (236 lbf·ft) @ 1,750–2,500 rpm	BMM	2006– present
2.0 TDI DPF	1968 cc	16v DOHC common rail	103 kW (140 PS; 138 bhp) @ 4,200 rpm	320 N·m (236 lbf·ft) @ 1,750–2,500 rpm	CBDB	planned for 2010
2.0 TDI DPF FR	1968 cc	16v DOHC Pumpe Düse Unit Injector	125 kW (170 PS; 168 bhp) @ 4,200 rpm	350 N·m (258 lbf·ft) @ 1,750–2,500 rpm	BMN	2006– 2009
2.0 TDI DPF FR	1968 cc	16v DOHC common rail	125 kW (170 PS; 168 bhp) @ 4,200 rpm	350 N·m (258 lbf·ft) @ 1,750–2,500 rpm	CEGA	2009– present

A flexible-fuel vehicle model is also on offer under the label "MultiFuel", featuring the 1.6 MPI E85 102 bhp engine.^[35]

See also[edit source]

• Driver Steering Recommendation

Third generation (Typ 5F; 2012–)[edit source]

SEAT León Mk3

Production	2012–
Platform	Volkswagen Group MQB
Engine	1.2 L I4 t/c petrol 1.4 L I4 t/c petrol 1.8 L I4 t/c petrol 1.6 L I4 t/c diesel 2.0 L I4 t/c diesel
Transmission	5-speed manual 6-speed manual 6-speed automatic 7-speed automatic
Wheelbase	2,636 mm (103.8 in)
Length	4,265 mm (167.9 in)
Related	Audi A3 Mk3 Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Škoda Octavia Mk3

SEAT León Mk3 rear view

SEAT León Mk3 interior

The third generation of the León is based on the Volkswagen Group's latest MQB platform.^[36]

Compared to the previous generation, the León Mk3 is shorter by 5 cm (2 in) and lighter by up to 90 kilograms; however, because of its extended by 5.8 cm (2.3 in) wheelbase it has a roomier cabin, with greater shoulder room for the front and rear passengers, more rear legroom and 380 litres (13 cu ft) of boot space.

It features new safety equipment, such as driver knee airbag, and a number of new safety systems, including a multi-collision braking system to automatically brake the car after an accident in order to avoid a second collision, a lane-keeping assistant, anddriver fatigue detection.

At the interior, there is a driver-oriented centre console hosting a 5.8-inch touch-screen infotainment display with a proximity sensor, also used in theVolkswagen Golf, as well as ambient lighting.

A new feature available for the first time in its class are the optional full-LED headlamps combined with a full beam assistant, offering numerous advantages as the improved illumination with a close to the daylight colour temperature, the low energy consumption and their extended life cycle.

The car has also a new "SEAT Drive Profile" system which allows the driver to choose between four different driving settings: eco, normal, sport, and an individual setting. This system controls the behavior of the engine, steering, and DSG gearbox. Additionally, the 1.8 TSI 180PS and 2.0 TDI 184PS engine-equipped models will vary their engine sound via a sound actuator, as well as their interior ambient lighting between white (normal, eco and individual) and red (sport).^[37]

SEAT announced in early 2012 that the range will include for the first time three-door and estate models in addition to a five-door.^[38]

Safety[edit source]

In 2012, the SEAT León Mk3 was tested for its safety performance under the Euro NCAP assessment scheme and it achieved a 5-star overall rating:^[39]

Test	Score	Points
Overall:		N/A
Adult occupant:	91%	30
Child occupant:	88%	40
Pedestrian:	70%	25
Safety assist:	71%	5

Awards[edit source]

• Euro NCAP advanced reward for SEAT’s Multi Collision Brake system ^[40]
• Euro NCAP advanced reward for SEAT’s Lane Assist system ^[41]

Engine specifications[edit source]

The Typ 5F SEAT León is available with the following internal combustion engines all featuring direct injection and turbocharging, and like the previous generations they are shared with other marques of the Volkswagen Group:^[1][42][43]

all available internal combustion engines are inline four cylinder (I4) four-stroke designs
engine designation / model	engine displacement	valvetrain, fuel system	max. motive power at rpm	max. torque at rpm	engine ID code(s)	dates
petrol engines all Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection (TSI)
1.2 TSI	1197 cc	16v Fuel Stratified Injection	63 kW (86 PS; 84 bhp) @ 4,300-5,300 rpm	160 N·m (118 lbf·ft) @ 1,400-3,500 rpm		2012– present
1.2 TSI	1197 cc	16v Fuel Stratified Injection	77 kW (105 PS; 103 bhp) @ 4,500-5,500 rpm	175 N·m (129 lbf·ft) @ 1,400-4,000 rpm		2012– present
1.4 TSI	1395 cc	16v Fuel Stratified Injection	90 kW (122 PS; 121 bhp) @ 5,000-6,000 rpm	250 N·m (184 lbf·ft) @ 1,400-4,000 rpm		2012– present
1.4 TSI	1395 cc	16v Fuel Stratified Injection	103 kW (140 PS; 138 bhp) @ 4,500-6,000 rpm	250 N·m (184 lbf·ft) @ 1,500-3,500 rpm		2012– present
1.8 TSI		Fuel Stratified Injection	132 kW (179 PS; 177 bhp)	250 N·m (184 lbf·ft)		planned for 2013
diesel engines all Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI)
1.6 TDI	1598 cc	16v	66 kW (90 PS; 89 bhp) @ 2,750-4,800 rpm	230 N·m (170 lbf·ft) @ 1,400-2,750 rpm		2012– present
1.6 TDI	1598 cc	16v	77 kW (105 PS; 103 bhp) @ 3,000-4,000 rpm	250 N·m (184 lbf·ft) @ 1,500-2,750 rpm		2012– present
2.0 TDI	1968 cc	16v	110 kW (150 PS; 148 bhp) @ 3,500-4,000 rpm	320 N·m (236 lbf·ft) @ 1,750-3,000 rpm		2012– present
2.0 TDI			135 kW (184 PS; 181 bhp)	380 N·m (280 lbf·ft)		planned for 2013

SEAT León in motorsport[edit source]

See also: SEAT León Supercopa

SEAT León Mk1 race car

The first generation SEAT León Cupra R was the basis of a one-make trophy, the SEAT León Supercopa. It operated in Spain, UK, Germany and Turkey from 2003. The car was developed bySEAT Sport and power was raised to 184 kilowatts (250 PS; 247 bhp). An "International Masters" final, featuring the best four drivers from each national series, was introduced in October 2005, as a support race for the Spanish GT Championship's final round at Montmeló. ATDI-powered version has raced in the ECTS, an Italian-based endurance series for touring cars.

SEAT León Mk2 WTCC race car

During 2005, SEAT introduced the second generation León into the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) to replace the Toledo Cupra which it had raced in the early rounds of the title. The car features several modifications, including a racing engine that develops over 191 kW (260 PS; 256 bhp), a Hewlandsequential-shift gearbox (unrelated to the DSG), and an aerodynamic package for increased downforce (with its hatchback shape, the León is disavantaged against conventional three-boxsaloons). Minimum weight is 1,140 kilograms (2,513.3 lb) with driver. SEAT Sport, in partnership with Oreca, runs six cars in the WTCC. Two other cars are run by SEAT Sport UK (Northern South) based in Northampton, UK in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC). A further two cars are run by SEAT Sport Italia in the Italia Superturismo Championship.

In 2006, the Supercopa León was replaced by the new shape León. The car is potentially faster than the WTCC version, as it features aturbocharged 2.0 litre engine, with over 221 kW (300 PS; 296 bhp), increased torque, the DSG gearbox, better aerodynamics (it includes the WTCC car's front and rear spoilers, plus a venturi tunnel under the car, instead of a flat bottom), and 18 inch wheels, instead of the mandatory 17 inch wheels from the WTCC.

For 2007, the SEAT Cupra Championship in the UK (part of the TOCA Package) will run both 'New León' Cupra Race cars with 221 kilowatts (300 PS; 296 bhp), as well as the Mk1 León Cupra R race car with 184 kilowatts (250 PS; 247 bhp).

The SEAT León Eurocup began in 2008 as a support series for the World Touring Car Championship.

In 2008, Yvan Muller won the FIA World Touring Car Championship for Drivers at the wheel of a León TDI, and SEAT won the Manufacturers' title.

In 2009, Gabriele Tarquini became the Drivers' Champion with the León TDI, and SEAT won the Manufacturers' title for a second consecutive year.

Summary[edit source]

Year	Championship	Result
2006	British Touring Car Championship	1 (Manufacturers)
2006	Italian Superturismo Championship	1 (Drivers)
2007	British Touring Car Championship	1 (Teams)
2007	Danish Touringcar Championship	1
2008	World Touring Car Championship	1
2009	World Touring Car Championship	1
2012	Russian Touring Car Championship	3

Sales and production figures[edit source]

Since its launch in 1999, more than 1 million SEAT León cars have been produced and sold in its three generations up to the present, made in SEAT's Martorell plant and other Volkswagen Group's factories.

In the year 2011, the total annual retail sales number of SEAT León cars was 77,075 vehicles,^[44] while the annual production of vehicles came up to 80,736 units.

The total production per year of SEAT León cars, manufactured in SEAT and other Volkswagen Group's plants, is shown in the following table :

model	1999 [45]	2000 [46]	2001 [47]	2002 [48]	2003 [49]	2004 [50]	2005 [51]	2006 [52]	2007 [53]	2008 [54]	2009 [55]	2010 [56]	2011 [57]
SEAT León Total annual production	6,080	93,123	91,939	93,606	96,536	90,850	98,130	126,511	120,630	96,761	66,368	79,462	80,736

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