The Seat Leon TGI is currently
available with a 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol four, but the automaker has just
unveiled a brand new mill that’s using compressed natural gas (CNG). Called the Leon TGI Evo, it has a
turbocharged 1.5-liter, four-cylinder, direct-injected unit, which is based on
the petrol TSI engine of the same capacity.
Seat says that it has Miller cycle combustion,
new-gen variable turbine geometry turbocharging system and an advanced
stop/start system. Joining them are new segments in the chrome-nickel covered
pistons, reinforced valve seats that increase wear resistance and raised valves
that improve gas circulation.
All of these work together to help the engine meet
the demands of running on CNG. The total output is 130 PS and
200 Nm of torque and the engine is paired to either a six-speed
manual or a dual-clutch seven-speed gearbox.
The new Leon TGI Evo has three CNG tanks with a
larger capacity than before. The range of the car in CNG mode is 500 km, to which an additional 150 km can be added by switching to
petrol.
Seat didn’t announce any pricing details, equipment
or market availability of the Leon TGI Evo yet, but said that it will be
available in the FR, Xcellence and Style grades.
