Seat Leon I (1M) 1.9 TDI (150 Hp)


Overall Rating

8.2 / 10
Safety 4.0 / 5
Engine 4.5 / 5
Value 4.5 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Seat Leon:

The SEAT León , also spelled Leon in some other languages, is a small family car built by the Spanish car manufacturer SEAT since October 1999. It is named after the city of León.
The first two León generations used two differing variants of the Volkswagen Group A platform, and shared many components with other Volkswagen Group cars. The third and fourth generation use the Volkswagen Group MQB platform, also used by the Audi A3 Mk3 and Mk4, Volkswagen Golf Mk7 and Mk8 and Škoda Octavia Mk3 and Mk4....(Read more on Wikipedia)

I (1M) Overview:

Seat Leon (I (1M)). With 320 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~7.2 l/100km). With a weight of 1356 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 9.1 s). The top speed reaches 211 km/h. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

1.9 TDI (150 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

Very strong for a diesel, offering impressive acceleration and torque.

Fuel Economy

Still very economical despite the higher power output.

Best Use Case: Highway cruising / Spirited daily driving

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Wide range of capable engines, from economical diesels to potent hot hatches.
  • • Engaging and sporty driving dynamics, especially in FR and Cupra trims.
  • • Distinctive and attractive styling that has aged well.
  • • Good value for money on the used car market.
  • • Practical hatchback body style with decent interior space.

Cons:

  • • Interior quality, while robust, can feel dated compared to newer rivals.
  • • Some petrol engines can be thirsty, particularly the V6 and higher-output 1.8T models.
  • • Rear legroom is adequate but not class-leading.
  • • Ride can be firm on sportier trims, impacting comfort on rough roads.
  • • Potential for common VW Group issues like coil pack failures on 1.8T engines.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(IV: October, 2020 - July, 2024).

General:
Brand:Seat
Model:Leon
Generation:I (1M)
Modification (Engine):1.9 TDI (150 Hp)
Start of production:September, 2000
End of production:May, 2005
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Hatchback
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:150 Hp @ 4000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:79.1 Hp/l [185mm less]
Torque:320 Nm @ 1900 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:ARL More details about the engine ARL
Engine displacement:1896
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Pump-nozzle (Unit Injector)
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Valvetrain:OHC
Engine oil capacity:4.5 l
Coolant:6 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:79.5 mm mm
Piston Stroke:95.5 mm mm
Compression ratio:18.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:7.2 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:4.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:5.4 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:9.1 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:9.1 sec
Maximum speed:211 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:9 kg/Hp, 110.6 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.2 kg/Nm, 236 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:8.6 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1356
Max. weight:1811
Max load:455
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:656 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:340 l
Fuel tank capacity:55 l
Size:
Length:4183 mm mm [185mm less]
Width:1742 mm mm [58mm less]
Height:1439 mm mm [17mm less]
Wheelbase:2513 mm mm [173mm less]
Front track:1513 mm
Rear (Back) track:1494 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size205/55 R16
Front suspensionWishbone
Rear suspensionSeveral levers and rods

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