Seat Leon SC (2014)

"We have given the three-door Leon SC a highly distinctive character - just deleting two doors would not have been enough for us. That is why we opted for the shorter wheelbase - although it is only 35 millimetres, the visual effect is very powerful. The result is a big difference in the expression of dynamics," says Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos, Head of SEAT Design. "The SEAT design language has been perfected in the new Leon. This is most evident in the characteristic lines - it is a car that has personality."

Compared with the five-door Leon, the wheelbase of the new Leon SC is shorter by 35 millimetres. At the same time, the distinctive window graphic, which sees the lower rear edge pulled downward, has the visual effect of stretching the car's 4.23-metre overall length. This gives the Leon SC a look that is sporty and powerful, yet very compact. All the exterior lines have an intense three-dimensionality that makes the design even more characteristic and generates a fine interplay between light and shade.

The front end of the new SEAT Leon SC is characterized by an emotional design. All lines stretch toward a single imaginary point that lies in front of the vehicle. The clear and stable geometric form of the triangle is a fundamental element of the SEAT design language and is evident in many places throughout the new Leon SC, such as the headlamp design. The lamps are perfectly integrated into the sculptural form of the Leon SC - their sharp line a typical SEAT feature.

The optional full-LED version with its powerful illumination makes the Leon SC a technology pioneer. The innovative full-LED headlamps, which are available for the first time in the compact segment, consume less energy and have an extremely long lifecycle. Their colour temperature of 5,500 Kelvin is similar to that of daylight, putting less strain on the eyes.

The side profile of the new SEAT Leon SC displays a balanced relationship between metal and glass surfaces - vertically, this is around 2/3 to 1/3. This emphasizes the solidity and underscores the car's firm stance. The characteristic, interrupted "Línea Dinámica" runs rearward over the wheel arches. The precisely sculpted "blisters" on the sides are not completely straight, running instead in a very slight arc to increase the tension. The expansive rear windscreen, with its coupé-like sweep, is 19 degrees more angled than on the five-door variant and takes the form of an up-turned, stylised pentagon - a further characteristic feature of the new SEAT Leon SC.

The new SEAT logo symbolises the core values of the brand - purist design and a high standard of workmanship. The new Leon SC is among the first SEAT models to bear the new logo - on the front, on the wheels, at the rear and on the steering wheel.

The Interior - elegant and light

The dynamic aesthetic of the exterior continues into the interior of the new SEAT Leon SC - it looks uncluttered, bright and clean. The materials are of the finest quality and the craftsmanship first class.

Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos, Head of SEAT Design says of the interior: "We used ergonomics as the benchmark in designing the light and elegant interior, orientating our thinking around the precision of an aircraft cockpit. The driver of the Leon SC has no unnecessary distraction and can concentrate fully on driving."

The space for the driver and front-seat passenger has a clear and harmonious design. All switches, buttons and levers are where he/she would intuitively expect to find them. The broad centre console with its clear driver focus is particularly distinctive. The instrument panel is extremely elegant, with its two-tone design making it appear almost to float.

Fine details highlight the very high level of workmanship in the new Leon SC - details such as the large air vents, the easy-to-understand air conditioning controls and the three-dimensional trim elements. All surfaces have a soft-touch finish for a satisfying tactile experience. In some versions, the premium feel is further enhanced through fine chrome and leather applications.

The large instrument dials are easy to read, with the driver information system standard as of the Reference line. The display is located directly in the driver's line of sight and provides information on average fuel consumption, range and speed. Depending on the version, it also provides data from the navigation system, the driver assistance systems or from a mobile phone connected via Bluetooth.

The beautifully crafted steering wheel, featuring the new SEAT logo on the airbag cover, is available with optional multi-function controls.

Certain versions of the new SEAT Leon SC are equipped with premium ambient lighting. In the FR, LEDs in the door panels enhance the contours of the interior design and bring even greater refinement to the interior. The ambient lighting offers occupants improved orientation, as well as an even more pleasant feeling of space.

On-board storage

In designing the new SEAT Leon SC, a great deal of emphasis was laid on functionality and flexibility. There are no fewer than a dozen storage trays and cubbies plus five closed storage bins located in the doors, the centre console and in front of and between the front seats.

The front storage cubby in the centre console is very spacious. Keys, mobile phones or other everyday articles can be stored here quickly and safely. This is also the location for the optional connections (aux-in, USB, SD and iPod cable) that enable multimedia devices to be connected to the vehicle network.

Seats and luggage compartment

The newly designed driver and front passenger seats in the Leon SC are low-slung and sporty and extremely comfortable for people of all sizes. The seats guarantee the very best grip under dynamic driving conditions and are extremely comfortable over long distances. This was achieved through ergonomic design of the foam contours, as well as further improvement to the spring and damping characteristics of the cold-cure foam cushion elements. A large selection of premium fabrics, leather and Alcantara upholstery ensures that all individual desires are fulfilled.

Weight was saved during the development of the standard-fit driver and passenger side airbags, which are now installed without plastic housings. Instead, the folded airbags are now integrated into the seat backs. The weight saving of around 25 percent is paired with a significant improvement in protection.

The equipment variants Reference (in the version for fleet customers) and Style can be optionally fitted with a lumbar support for the driver, an additional comfort element for long-distance driving that comes as standard in the FR. Height adjustment for the driver's seat is always standard, while it is delivered as an option for the passenger seat in Reference and as standard with Style and FR.

Access to the rear is easy, thanks to the wide-opening doors and the easy-to-reach lever which releases the seat-back to fold forward. As well as folding the seat-back forward, the lever allows the entire seat to slide towards the dashboard, giving a wide aperture through which rear passengers can enter.

Once installed in the rear of the new SEAT Leon SC, shoulder, knee and head room are extremely generous. The comfortable rear bench is equipped with three head restraints. In the interests of the very youngest passengers, standard equipment includes Isofix and Top Tether anchors for child seats. Thanks to systematic lightweight design, the rear bench back rest is more than 15 percent lighter than in the previous model - without any sacrifice in comfort.

The luggage compartment of the new Leon SC has a capacity of 380 litres, which is exactly the same as for the five-door variant. The rear bench back rest is extremely straightforward to fold forward - and comes with a 60:40 split as of the Reference line. Once folded forward, the load floor is almost completely flat and measures 1530 millimetres in length.

The Bodyshell - systematic lightweight design

Its low kerb weight is one of the great strengths of the new SEAT Leon SC. In its base version, the compact three-door weights just 1.093 kilograms, an incredibly competitive figure.

"Systematic lightweight design is a clear strength of the new Leon SC, too. The low vehicle weight aids dynamics and efficiency to the same degree," says Dr. Matthias Rabe, Vice President of Research and Development for SEAT S.A. "The extremely stiff body shell also forms the basis for excellent overall quality."

High-strength and ultra-high-strength steels

A body shell that offers optimum safety and the best possible comfort has to be solid. An intelligent structure guarantees that the vehicle remains lightweight and efficient. Lightweight solidity - SEAT set itself this challenge and equipped the new Leon SC with a state-of-the-art body-in-white.

With an eye on optimum value for money, costly materials like magnesium and carbon fibre were avoided - instead, the bodyshell features a high proportion of high-strength and ultra-high-strength steels. The hot-formed, hi-tech steels alone reduce weight by 18 kilograms, while ensuring increased passenger cell stiffness.

The excellent bodyshell stiffness lays the groundwork for the high production quality, for the precise handling and for the quiet passenger cabin, virtually undisturbed by unpleasant frequencies. Thanks to careful insulation, the interior of the new SEAT Leon SC is as quiet as that of a car from the next class up. Its aerodynamic refinements include under body cladding and the airflow through the engine bay.

In the five-door version of the new Leon, the body-in-white alone is lighter by 25 kilograms compared with the preceding model. And in the three-door sports coupé, too, systematic lightweight design extends across every one of the vehicle's sub-assemblies - many parts in the engines, running gear and interior also contribute to weight reduction.

Climate control

One example of the many lightweight design initiatives is the all-new air conditioning. With its highly efficient cold circulation system and quiet operation, it sets the benchmark in efficiency and comfort. Ideal air distribution was as much the focus of development work as was fast and even windscreen de-icing in frosty temperatures.

The significant weight saving of 2.7 kilograms was achieved through optimisation of the design and packaging.

The Drive - Efficient dynamics

The Leon SC comes with an extensive engine line-up. SEAT is sending the new sports coupé into battle with powerful and fuel-efficient TDI and TSI power units ranging from 1.2 to 2.0 litres displacement. All engines feature direct injection with turbo-charging and have been optimised for low internal friction and rapid warm-up.

"Our engines use state-of-the-art efficiency technologies and have outstanding fuel consumption figures," says Dr. Matthias Rabe, Vice President of Research and Development for SEAT S.A. "We are vigorously pursuing our strategy of offering performance and driving fun combined with optimum resource conservation."

TDI engines

The diesel line-up offered in the SEAT Leon SC covers a broad performance spectrum ranging from 66 kW (90 PS) to 135 kW (184 PS). The state-of-the-art TDI power units are notable for their excellent fuel consumption and low CO2 figures.

The 1.6 TDI with 77 kW (105 PS) generates 250 Nm of torque from a displacement of 1,598 cm3. In the version with the start/stop and recuperation system, it consumes just 3.8 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres in the NEDC, which equates to 99 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

The 2.0 TDI with the start/stop system makes do with an average of just 4.1 litres of fuel per 100 km. With 110 kW (150 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, the TDI engine with a displacement of 1,968 cm3 provides the new SEAT Leon with ample propulsion.

The diesel range is further enhanced by the 1.6 TDI with 66 kW (90 PS) and a respectable 230 Nm of torque; it consumes 4.1 litres per 100 km and emits 108 grams of CO2 per km. The highlight of the TDI line-up is the 2.0 TDI with 135 kW (184 PS) and 380 Nm of torque, which is available exclusively in the new FR.

TSI engines

When it comes to petrol engines, too, the new SEAT Leon SC has an extensive range, with a power unit available to suit every requirement.

The 1.2 TSI comes in a choice of two versions with 63 kW (86 PS) and 77 kW (105 PS). In both power variants, NEDC fuel consumption stands at 5.2 litres per 100 km, equating to 119 grams of CO2 per km. In the version with start/stop and recuperation, the 77 kW engine consumes just 4.8 litres per 100 km (CO2: 112g/ km).

The 1.4 TSI with 90 kW (122 PS) is a state-of-the-art unit delivering 200 Nm of torque. The engine comes with start/stop and recuperation as standard and consumes just 5.2 litres of Super grade petrol per 100 kilometres in the NEDC, equating to 120 grams of CO2 per km.

The TSI range is further enhanced by a 1.4 TSI with 103 kW (140 PS) and a maximum torque of 250 Nm. Its average fuel consumption stands at 5.2 litres per 100 kilometres, with a CO2 figure of just 119 grams per km.

The peak of the petrol line-up is marked by a 1.8 TSI delivering 132 kW (180 PS) and 250 Newton metres, which will celebrate its premiere in the new FR.

Start/stop and recuperation system

In the new SEAT Leon SC, the start/stop system deactivates the engine when the car is at a standstill with the gear stick in neutral and the clutch disengaged. On re-engaging gear, a powerful starter motor restarts the engine - quietly, smoothly and quickly.

The start/stop system, which can be deactivated by the driver at any time, also works perfectly with the DSG transmission. Thanks to a very powerful battery with an excellent cycle life, the system remains active even under extremely cold weather conditions. The start/stop system offers fuel savings of up to four percent.

A further efficiency measure in the new SEAT Leon SC is the recuperation system. It uses intelligent voltage regulation in the alternator to recover energy under braking and trailing throttle conditions. This is temporarily stored in the battery, flowing back into the vehicle electric system when the car subsequently accelerates. This takes the load off the alternator by enabling it to run from time-to-time on a lower voltage or to be switched off entirely. It draws less power from the engine, resulting in lower fuel consumption.

Transmissions

When it comes to transferring power to the wheels, the transmissions on offer vary in accordance with the engine from a five or six-speed manual to the compact and lightweight DSG dual-clutch gearbox. It changes its six or seven gears in a matter of milliseconds and is incredibly efficient. Certain variants come with a freewheeling function, which reduces real-life fuel consumption even further.

The Chassis - refined dynamics

The chassis plays a major role in the enhanced dynamics of the new SEAT Leon SC. The suspension smoothes out all manner of uneven surfaces, while the steering has refined, calm directionality and a fine level of feedback. The compact three-door uses an all-new vehicle architecture that has been developed from scratch. Its engines are all angled at 12 degrees to the rear. This and the compact engine layout enabled engineers to move the front axle forward by 40 millimetres. The results are a comparatively long wheelbase and a well-balanced distribution of axle load - factors that have a major impact on the comfort and sporty handling of the new SEAT Leon SC.

Speaking on the suspension set-up, Dr. Matthias Rabe, Vice-President of Research and Development for SEAT S.A. says, "A great deal of detail refinement went into combining the distinctive sporty character and precise handling with a considerable improvement in comfort."

At the front are Macpherson struts on a sub frame. The compact sports coupé responds quickly and precisely to steering input, mastering all manner of bends and corners with relaxed stability. The ratio of the new speed-sensitive electromechanical power steering is sporty and direct. It makes a significant contribution to the efficiency of the new Leon SC because it consumes no energy during straight-line driving. The turning circle measures just 10.2 metres.

On engine versions up to 110 kW (150 PS), the rear of the new SEAT Leon SC is equipped with a torsion bar suspension. The more powerful variants use a multi-link set-up that handles longitudinal and transverse forces independently from one another. Shock absorbers and coil springs are mounted separately to deliver a particularly refined response. An electronic transverse differential lock applies tiny braking impulses to the lighter inside front wheel to make handling at the cornering limits safer and even more fluid. The ESP electronic stability program has been perfectly adapted, while the braking system on the new SEAT Leon is also a match for even the toughest conditions.

SEAT Drive Profile

The character of the FR version of the new SEAT Leon SC can be individualised to suit both mood and situation: The SEAT Drive Profile enables the driver to vary the characteristics of the power steering, throttle control and DSG transmission in three modes - eco, comfort and sport, plus an additional individual setting. The SEAT Drive Profile in the Leon SC FR with the 1.8 TSI (180 PS) and 2.0 TDI (184 PS) also influences the engine sound, which is modulated via a sound actuator, as well as the interior ambient lighting - depending on driving style, the LEDs switch between white (comfort, eco, individual) and red (sport).

Technologies - Innovative solutions

Packed into the new SEAT Leon SC are a whole host of innovations. It combines dynamic design with state-of-the-art technologies. The optional full-LED headlamps are a true first in the compact class, while the up-to-the-minute operating system SEAT Easy Connect works with a touch-screen measuring up to 5.8 inches.

"With the new Leon SC, we have developed a compact sports coupé that fulfils both the emotional and the rational demands of our customers in equal measure," says Dr. Matthias Rabe, Vice-President of Research and Development for SEAT S.A.

Full-LED headlamps

The SEAT Leon SC is a true pioneer. It is making innovative, full-LED headlights available in the compact class for the very first time. Alongside their distinctive design, LED headlamps have numerous other benefits. For example, they illuminate the road ahead with a colour temperature of 5,300 Kelvin. Because this is very close to daylight, it is extremely gentle on the eyes. And, when it comes to efficiency, the LEDs emit their light with minimal energy consumption - dipped beam, for instance, consumes just 20 watts per unit.

The distinctive contour of the position lights and daytime running lights on the new SEAT Leon SC is created by two white LEDs per unit. Nine yellow LEDs on each side create the turn indicator lights, which are also integrated into the headlamp units. Each dipped beam is made up of six modules. When full beam is switched on, an additional three powerful spot modules are activated on each side, while the dipped beam is raised to match.

Intelligent sensors ensure that oncoming traffic is not dazzled. In addition to all this, the new full-LED headlamps are completely maintenance free and designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle.

The functions of the full-LED headlamps include a motorway light - the light angle is raised slightly as soon as the Leon SC drives at speeds of more than 110 km/h for longer than 30 seconds. This improves road illumination without disturbing other vehicles.

SEAT Easy Connect - The latest generation in infotainment

The new SEAT Leon SC is coming to market with a wide selection of state-of-the-art infotainment solutions. The foundation for this is the SEAT Easy Connect operating system, which enables the control of entertainment and communication functions, in addition to numerous vehicle functions, via a cockpit touch-screen. Measuring up to 5.8 inches, the touch-screen and its associated buttons and rotary controls are located centrally in a convenient position between the central air vents. It is easy to read and to reach for both driver and front seat passenger.

For the first time, SEAT is using a touch-sensitive screen with proximity sensor (5.8-inch screen). As soon as the driver's or passenger's finger approaches the touch-screen, the system automatically switches from display to operating mode. In operating mode, the elements that can be activated via the touch-screen are brought to the fore, making intuitive use (Smartphone-style swipe and zoom gestures) even easier. The display mode, on the other hand, is distinguished by its extremely clear and uncluttered presentation. The graphics of both modes are a perfect match for the sporty aesthetic of the SEAT design.

Media System Touch (5-inch)

The entry level is the Media System Touch with a 5-inch touch-screen, radio with SD-card slot and four speakers. External devices for playing individual play lists can be connected via USB or aux-in points. Arranged evenly on the left and right of the touch-screen are six buttons that activate the functions "Radio", "Media", "Car", "Setup", "Sound" and "Mute". The Media System Touch is standard equipment with the Reference equipment line.

Media System Touch Colour (5-inch)

In the Style and FR, the Media System Colour with SD-card slot, CD drive (MP3 capable) and six speakers is part of the standard equipment. It connects to external devices via Bluetooth, USB or aux-in. Its colour, 5-inch touch-screen also serves to control vehicle functions.

Media System Plus (5.8-inch)

The Media System Plus comes with a 5.8-inch touch-screen with three-dimensional graphics, as well as an optional DAB tuner for digital radio reception and voice control. The system delivers sound to eight speakers. Evenly arranged to the left and right of the touch-screen are eight buttons. In addition to those provided with the 5-inch systems and depending on equipment, they provide access to the functions "Phone" and "Voice". The connector unit for SD cards, USB and iPod is located in the glove compartment. The high-resolution screen offers a wide array of colours.

Navi System (5.8-inch)

The top solution is the same as Media System Plus, but incorporates the voice-controlled navigation system. Route guidance information is also displayed on the colour screen between the speedometer and rev counter, directly in the driver's line of sight.

SEAT sound system

The optional SEAT sound system with 135-watt output and ten speakers offers clear and powerful sound at all five seats. A large proportion of this impressive listening experience is attributable to the centre speaker integrated into the dashboard and the large 35-watt subwoofer in the luggage compartment.

The Driver Assistance Systems - Reliable and alert

SEAT engineers have compiled an impressive package of the very latest driver assistance systems for the new Leon SC. They include drowsiness detection and the two camera-based systems, Full Beam Assist and lane-keeping assistant Heading Control.

A further important safety system that is standard in the new SEAT Leon SC is the multi-collision brake, which helps to avoid secondary collisions in the case of an accident.

Drowsiness detection

The system, which is optional on the "Reference", analyses the driver's characteristic steering input and continuously evaluates permanent signals like steering angle or steering speed. The drowsiness detection system registers when the driver's concentration is failing and emits an acoustic warning signal supplemented by a display symbol that recommends taking a break.

Should the driver elect not to take a break within the subsequent 15 minutes, the warning is repeated. Independently of this, the activated system advises the driver to take a break after four hours of uninterrupted driving.

Full Beam Assist

A camera system integrated into the base of the rear-view mirror controls the Full Beam Assist (upwards of 60 km/h), switching automatically between full and dipped beam. It identifies oncoming traffic and vehicles driving in front, as well as illuminated residential areas, thus ensuring that other road users are not dazzled.

Lane-keeping assistant (Heading Control)

The camera-based lane-keeping assistant Heading Control makes slight adjustments to the electromechanical steering before the driver deviates from course and crosses a lane marking.