Get Driving -> Start and driving Guide for Seat Leon 4 Door Fourth Generation (2021-2026)

Driving

Switching the ignition on/off

enough charge in the battery). If the driver

locks the vehicle or manually turns off the

light, the side light goes out.

Driving

If you only want to switch on the ignition

(without starting the engine), briefly press the

start button once without pressing the brake

Start and driving

Switching off the ignition when leaving the

vehicle, with hybrid drive

pedal or the clutch pedal

.

›››

The    push-button text flashes

like a heartbeat when the system is ready for

the ignition to be turned on or off.

Starting and stopping the

engine

When the ignition is not switched off in E-

MODE operating mode, a certain amount of

time after the journey is complete it switches

off automatically to prevent draining the 12-

volt vehicle battery.

Ignition and start button

Automatic ignition disconnection

When the vehicle detects that there is no

driver once the engine has stopped, after a

certain time the ignition is switched off auto-

matically. If at that time the dipped beam

headlights are on, the side lights will stay on

for approx. 30 minutes. The side lights can be

turned off by blocking the vehicle

“My Beat” function

For vehicles with a convenience key there is

the “My Beat” function. This feature provides

an additional indication of the vehicle ignition

system.

page 101, or manually page 119.

›››

When entering the vehicle, the start button

Fig. 163 flashes to draw attention to it.

›››

Automatic deactivation of the ignition on

vehicles with the Start-Stop system

When the ignition is on/off, the engine start

button flashes. With the ignition is switched

off, the start button goes off after a few sec-

onds.

Fig. 163 In the lower part of the centre con-

sole: start button.

The ignition is switched off automatically

when the vehicle is stopped and the auto-

matic engine shutdown is active, if:

The engine can be started with a start button

(Press & Drive). For this there must be a valid

key inside the passenger compartment.

With the engine running, the start button light

stays on, indicating that the engine is running.

The time elapsed between the moment the

user starts the engine with the start button

and the lighting changes from flashing to

fixed will depend on specific engine size

characteristics. When the start button is used

to stop the engine, the button starts flashing

again.

●

The driver's seat belt is not fastened,

the driver does not step on any pedal,

the driver door is opened.

Opening the driver's door when exiting the

vehicle activates the electronic lock on the

steering column if the ignition is disabled.

After automatically turning off the ignition, if

the dipped beam  is on, the side light re-

mains on for approx. 30 minutes (if there is

216

Start and driving

In vehicles with the Start-Stop system, the

“My Beat” function also offers additional in-

formation:

the  button remains fixed indicat-

ing that the engine is running.

take into account the instructions on the

screen of the dash panel.

●

Once the engine starts, release the start-up

button.

●

If the vehicle is stationary for a long time

with the engine off and the ignition on, the

12-volt vehicle battery might be dis-

charged and it might not be possible to

start the engine.

●

When the engine stops during the Stop

●

If the engine does not start, stop and wait

for around 1 minute to try again. If necessary,

phase, the light of the start button stays on,

as the Start-Stop system remains active even

though the engine is off.

perform an emergency start page 219.

›››

●

In vehicles with diesel engines, wait until

●

When the engine cannot be started again

Diesel engines can take a few seconds longer

than usual to start on cold days. During pre-

heating, the warning lamp  remains lit. To

avoid unnecessary discharging of the bat-

tery, do not use any other major electrical

equipment while the glow plugs are pre-

heating.

the warning light  page 217 goes off

›››

with the Start-Stop system, page 223, and

›››

before starting the engine.

needs to be started manually, the start but-

ton flashes to indicate this situation.

●

If during the STOP phase you press the

   button, the ignition is switch-

ed off and the push-button flashes.

WARNING

●

If the indication is displayed on the in-

When switching on the ignition, do not

press the brake or clutch pedal, otherwise

the engine could start immediately.

strument panel display “Start-Stop system

deactivated: Start the engine manually”;

the    button will flash.

The preheating time depends on the coolant

and exterior temperatures. With the engine at

operating temperature, or at outside temper-

atures above +8°C, the warning lamp  will

light up for about one second. This means

that you can start the engine almost immedi-

ately.

WARNING

If vehicle keys are used negligently or with-

out due care, this may cause accidents and

serious injury.

Starting the engine

●

Vehicles with manual transmission: put the

gear lever in neutral, press the clutch pedal

and keep it pressed in this position until the

engine starts.

●

Never leave any key inside the vehicle

Starting a diesel engine after having run

out of fuel

when you leave it. Otherwise, a child or un-

authorised person could lock the vehicle,

start the engine or connect the ignition and

operate any of the electrical equipment.

●

Vehicles with automatic transmission: press

If the fuel tank of a diesel vehicle was run until

completely empty, after refuelling it can last

longer than normal to start the engine, even

up to a minute. This is because the fuel sys-

tem must eliminate air first.

the brake pedal and keep it pressed in this

position until the engine starts.

Note

●

Press the starter button Fig. 163; do not

›››

»

●

Before leaving the vehicle, always dis-

press the accelerator. There needs to be a

valid key inside the vehicle for the engine to

start. After starting the engine, the lighting of

connect the ignition and, if appropriate,

217

Driving

gearbox, activate the parking lock by press-

ing button P.

WARNING

For the sake of the environment

Do not keep the engine running in confined

spaces, as there is a risk of poisoning.

Do not warm-up the engine by running the

engine with the vehicle stationary. Start off

immediately, driving gently. This helps the

engine reach operating temperature faster

and reduces emissions.

●

Apply the electronic parking brake.

Briefly press the start-up button Fig. 163.

›››

●

The exhaust gases contain carbon mon-

oxide, an odourless and colourless poison-

ous gas that can cause loss of conscious-

ness and death.

Car wash function (hybrid vehicles)

When the ignition is turned off with gear N ac-

tivated, the vehicle can roll for the next 30 mi-

nutes. After that time, if the vehicle is stopped

the parking lock P activates automatically.

The corresponding warning message is dis-

played on the instrument cluster display one

minute before this happens.

Note

WARNING

●

Electrical components with a high power

consumption are switched off temporarily

when the engine starts.

Do not get out of the vehicle with the en-

gine running, especially if a gear is engag-

ed. The vehicle could then suddenly move

or something strange could happen that

would cause damage, fire or serious injury.

●

When starting with a cold engine, noise

levels may briefly increase. This is quite

normal, and no cause for concern.

WARNING

●

When the outside temperature is below

+5 °C (+41 °F), if the engine is diesel, some

smoke may appear under the vehicle when

the fuel-operated auxiliary heater is on.

Never switch off the engine while the vehi-

cle is moving. This could cause loss of con-

trol of the vehicle, accidents and serious in-

jury.

WARNING

Never use cold start sprays, they could ex-

plode or cause the engine to run at high

revs. Doing this risks injury.

●

In vehicles with a natural gas engine

●

(CNG), by default, the engine starts with

gas, with the exception of the following ca-

ses:

The airbags and belt tensioners do not

work when the ignition is switched off.

CAUTION

●

The brake servo does not work with the

●

The starter motor or the engine may be

–

Coolant temperature below -15°C.

After refuelling CNG.

engine off. Therefore, you need to press the

break pedal harder to brake the vehicle.

damaged if you try to restart the engine im-

mediately after switching it off.

●

Power steering does not work when the

●

When the engine is cold, you should

engine is not running. You need more

strength to steer when the engine is switch-

ed off.

avoid high engine speeds, driving at full

throttle and over-loading the engine, as

this could cause engine damage.

Turning off the engine

●

If the ignition is switched off, the steering

●

Bring the vehicle to a full stop

.

›››

column could be locked, making it impossi-

ble to control the vehicle.

With manual transmission, press the clutch

all the way down. If fitted with an automatic

218

Start and driving

Electronic immobilizer

Emergency starting function

WARNING

Always take the key with you when you

leave the vehicle. This is particularly impor-

tant if there are children in the vehicle, as

they might otherwise be able to start the

engine or use power-operated equipment

(e.g. the electric windows), which could

cause injuries.

The electronic immobiliser prevents unau-

thorised persons from driving the vehicle.

In the key there is a chip that automatically

deactivates the electronic immobiliser.

The electronic immobiliser is automatically

activated when the key is outside the vehicle.

If the following message is shown on the in-

strument panel display: SAFE, the vehicle

cannot be started.

CAUTION

●

If the vehicle is stopped and the Start-

Stop system switches off the engine, the ig-

nition remains switched on. Make sure that

the ignition is switched off before leaving

the vehicle, otherwise the battery could

discharge.

The engine can only be started using a genu-

ine SEAT key with its correct code.

Fig. 164 In the centre console: emergency

start.

Note

If no valid key is detected inside the vehicle,

an emergency start-up will be required. The

relevant message will appear in the dash

panel display. This may happen when, for ex-

ample, the vehicle key battery is very low:

●

If the engine has been driven at high

A perfect operation of the vehicle is ensur-

ed if genuine SEAT keys are used.

speed for a prolonged period of time, it

may overheat when switched off. To avoid

damage, allow the engine to run for ap-

proximately two minutes in neutral before

switching it off.

●

Immediately after pushing the start button,

place the key in the drink holder of the centre

Note

console Fig. 164, as close as possible to

›››

After the engine is switched off the radiator

fan may run on for up to 10 minutes, even if

the ignition is switched off. It is also possi-

ble that the fan turns itself on once more if

the coolant temperature increases due to

the heat accumulated in the engine com-

partment or due to its prolonged exposure

to solar radiation.

the Kessy logo.

●

The ignition connects and the engine starts

automatically.

219

Driving

●

Ignition is switched on

The high voltage battery has a sufficient

charge level.

Instructions for the driver on the in-

strument panel display

●

This driver message is displayed and a buz-

zer is sounded when the driver door is

opened with the ignition switched on.

●

There is no charging cable plugged in.

The temperature of the high-voltage bat-

Press the clutch

●

tery is within the operating range.

This message appears on vehicles with a

manual gearbox if the driver tries to start the

engine without having the clutch pedal

pressed. The engine will only start if you press

the clutch pedal.

●

There is a valid remote control key in the

vehicle.

Driving with electric drive

Switching on the drive system

Switching on the hybrid drive sys-

tem

●

Press the ignition and start button once.

The ignition must be switched on.

Press the brake

●

This message appears on vehicles with an

3 Valid for: hybrid vehicles

●

Press the brake pedal and keep it pressed.

automatic gearbox if the driver tries to start

the engine without having the brake pedal

pressed.

Switching on the hybrid drive activates the

vehicle's propulsion system. When the vehi-

cle’s drive system is switched on, the electric

drive is activated. The combustion engine

starts automatically when the charge level of

the high-voltage battery is not sufficient to

run with the electric drive, or if high drive

power is required.

Set the gear selector switch to position N or

activate the parking lock P.

●

Press the ignition and start button

Fig. 163 until indicator lamp  lights up

Press the brake to engage a gear

›››

●

This indication is displayed when starting or

on the instrument cluster. Do not press the

accelerator. Release the ignition and start

button when the indicator lamp  lights up

on the instrument cluster. The mark on the

power display changes from  to .

stopping the engine if the automatic trans-

mission selector lever is in position D or R and

the brake pedal is not depressed. The engine

can only be started and stopped in these po-

sitions.

To access driving with the electric drive in the

infotainment system:

●

If the indicator lamp  does not light up,

cancel and repeat the operation.

●

Move the selector lever to P; the

vehicle can move; the doors can only

be locked in P

 > Vehicle > Exterior > Electric

drive.

●

If the vehicle has been locked with the re-

mote control key, the ignition and start button

is deactivated. If you are inside the vehicle

and have to start the engine, first unlock the

vehicle or perform an emergency start

Requirements for switching on the drive

system

●

For safety reasons, this driver message ap-

pears and an audible warning sounds if the

parking lock button P is not pressed after

switching off the engine. Press the button P,

otherwise the vehicle could move.

The drive system can be switched on when

the following conditions are met:

page 219.

›››

220

Start and driving

Detecting the drive system

vehicle's drive system is no longer avail-

able. Park the vehicle in a safe place as

soon as possible. Seek professional as-

sistance.

Note

With the electric drive, the motor makes no

noticeable noise when the drive system is

switched on or while driving. Therefore, you

cannot defect that the vehicle's drive system

is on by engine noise. Instead, the following

characteristics show that the vehicle is ready

to drive:

A click is heard when the drive system is

turned on. This is completely normal and

does not mean there is a problem.

Drive: Fault! The electric drive is not

working properly. Visit a workshop



Vehicle sound

The warning lamp lights up yellow. There

is a fault in the vehicle’s drive system.

Drive slowly to a specialised workshop

to have the fault repaired.

3 Valid for: hybrid vehicles

●

The power display on the instrument cluster

displays  page 80.

The electric drive makes much less noise

than a combustion engine. In the versions for

some countries, artificial vehicle sound is

generated to allow the vehicle to be heard

better from the outside. At higher speeds,

when the noise produced by the tyres and

the wind increases, the vehicle's sound auto-

matically fades out.

›››

●

The display light on the instrument cluster is

Drive: Warning! Power is limited.

Check the manual

on, regardless of whether the vehicle’s exteri-

or lighting is on.

The warning lamp lights up yellow. Per-

formance limited. The high-voltage bat-

tery may not be sufficiently charged or

may have reached its operating temper-

ature limit, for example in very cold out-

side temperatures.

●

The indicator lamp on the instrument clus-

ter switches on .

●

An audio signal is heard.

Switching on the drive system in very low

outside temperatures

WARNING

During electric driving, the auditory per-

ception of the vehicle by other road users

may be much lower. This is especially true

in traffic-restricted areas and when ma-

noeuvring or reversing. Accident hazard!

Vehicle sound: Fault! Pedestrians

cannot hear the vehicle. Visit a work-

shop



If the outside temperature is very low (ap-

proximately -27°C (-16°F) or lower), the high-

voltage battery may freeze and stop working.

In this case it's not possible to switch on the

drive system.

The warning lamp lights up yellow. There

is a vehicle sound fault. Drive with utmost

care, as other road users may not be

able to hear the electric vehicle. Go im-

mediately to a specialised workshop to

have the fault repaired.

As soon as the temperature of the high-volt-

age has increase enough, the drive system

can be switched on again.

Troubleshooting

3 Valid for: hybrid vehicles

To ensure that the drive system can be

switched on, even in very low outside temper-

atures, SEAT recommends parking the vehicle

in a place protected from the cold.

 ^{Drive: Fault! Stop the vehicle safely}

The warning lamp lights up red. There is

a fault in the vehicle’s drive system. The

221

Driving

the extent possible, the vehicle's combustion

engine is not used.

In this operating mode, the electric motor and

the combustion engine share the work of

driving the vehicle.

Operating mode selection

All of the following conditions must be met for

E-MODE to be activated:

Operating mode selection

In hybrid operating mode, the power from the

battery charge is used optimally. If route

guidance is activated, the vehicle may auton-

omously recharge the high-voltage battery

using the combustion engine.

3 Valid for: hybrid vehicles

●

The high voltage battery has a sufficient

charge level.

The vehicle has different operating modes so

that it can always be optimally adjusted to

every situation while driving. Once the drive

system has been turned on, and provided

that all of the operating conditions required

for this purpose have been met, the E-MODE

operating mode is always activated in the

first instance for electric driving.

●

The vehicle speed is lower than 130 km/h

(80 mph).

Manual control of the battery charge

●

The high voltage battery temperature is

above -10°C.

Manual control of the battery charge is only

possible in Hybrid operating mode. The op-

tion selected by the user is only valid until the

ignition is switched off or the vehicle is switch-

ed to Hybrid mode or E-MODE.

If, while driving in E-MODE mode, the neces-

sary conditions are no longer met, the com-

bustion engine starts and electric driving is

suspended. In this case, the display  lights

up on the instrument cluster display.

Operating mode selection

●

Switch on the drive system page 220.

›››

Press the function button  and use the sym-

Press button  on the control panel of the

bols , and  to control the battery charge:

=

The combustion engine starts when a kick-

down occurs in E-MODE. However, E-MODE

remains activated.

upper centre console.



Pressing this symbol selects a higher

theoretical charge level. The vehicle

tries to reach that new theoretical high-

voltage battery charge level while driv-

ing. The vehicle is powered by the com-

bustion engine. If the combustion engine

has “excess” power, it is used to charge

the high-voltage battery. This option in-

creases fuel consumption. SEAT there-

fore recommends using the charging

●

Press the E-Mode or Hybrid function but-

ton in the infotainment system.

Hybrid  (use the battery's charge)¹⁾

Further information about the operating

mode can be found in .

This is the operating mode that allows you to

save most fuel.

E-MODE  (electric driving)¹⁾

The operating mode control unit tries to make

the most of the battery charge. For this pur-

pose, with active directions the navigation

data are also accessed.

In the E-MODE electric driving mode, the ve-

hicle basically drives in electric only mode. To

1)

The displayed symbol varies depending on the

active operating mode and the charge level of

the high-voltage battery.

222

Start and driving

WARNING

socket to charge the high-voltage bat-

Start-Stop system

tery, whenever possible page 308 .

›››

Switching to a different operating mode

while driving can distract you from traffic

conditions and cause accidents.

The high-voltage battery charge level is

kept at around the current level while

driving. If you accelerate harder or in-

crease the vehicle speed, the combus-

tion engine starts up. When permitted by

the driver’s demand for acceleration and

the vehicle speed, the vehicle switches

back to electric mode.

=

Control lamps

It lights up



Note

The Start-Stop system is available, the automatic en-

gine shutdown is active.

Information about the operating mode that

is currently active is displayed on the in-

strument cluster display, along with the

charge level of the high-voltage battery.

It lights up

.



Pressing this symbol selects a lower the-

oretical charge level. The vehicle only

uses the battery's charge when it is

above the selected theoretical charge

level. The rest is kept until the end of the

journey.

The Start-Stop system is not available or has been

disconnected.

Troubleshooting

Instructions for the driver on the instru-

ment panel display

^{The E-MODE operating mode is not}

available

Start-Stop system deactivated. Start

the engine manually

The Intelligent Hybrid App allows the user to

save electrical energy until reaching home

(charging point) with just “one click”. If this

option is not selected, the maximum amount

of electrical energy will be consumed until

the selected destination is reached. If the

user has no active route, the function will offer

the activation of a predictive route and BMA

mode from the widget itself with just one

click.

The indicator lamp lights up in white.

●

This indication for the driver shows that the

The E-MODE operating mode  (driving in

electric mode) cannot be used temporarily

because one or more conditions are not met.

Start-Stop system cannot start the engine

again.

Start-Stop system: Fault! Function

not available

●

The conditions must be met to use the E-

MODE operating mode page 222.

›››

●

There is a fault in the Start-Stop system.

Take the vehicle to a workshop to have the

fault repaired.

Show the active operating mode

The operating mode active at any given time

is displayed on the instrument cluster display,

e.g. .

Description and operation

The Start-Stop system helps you to save fuel

and reduce CO₂emissions.

»

223

Driving

●

In Start-Stop mode, the engine will automati-

cally switch off when the vehicle stops or is

stopping. The ignition remains switched on.

The engine automatically switches back on

when required.

stopping completely (approximately 7 or 2

km/h depending on the vehicle's gearbox).¹⁾

The engine has not yet reached the re-

quired temperature for the Start-Stop mode.

●

When you take your foot off the brake ped-

The temperature selected on the climate

control has not been reached.

al the engine will start up again. The warning

lamp will switch off. With the Auto Hold sys-

tem, the engine will not start if you remove

your foot from the brake pedal. The car starts

when you press the accelerator pedal.

●

The interior temperature is very high/low.

In this scenario, the light of the   

button stays lit.

●

Defrost function button activated

page 155.

›››

●

When the ignition is switched on, the Start-

Stop function is automatically activated.

Park assist is switched on.

Basic requirements for the Start-Stop

mode

●

The steering wheel is overly turned or is be-

ing turned.

Vehicles with a manual gearbox

●

The driver door must be closed.

●

If there is a danger of misting.

After engaging reverse gear.

In case of a very steep gradient.

●

When the vehicle or when it is stopped, put

The driver's seat belt must be fastened.

The bonnet must be closed.

it into neutral and release the clutch pedal.

The engine will switch off. The warning lamp

 will light up. The engine can be stopped

before stopping completely (approximately 7

km/h).

The engine has reached operating temper-

●

In a traffic jam after stopping for the fifth

ature.

time, the engine will not stop any more.

●

The reverse gear must not be engaged.

The vehicle must not be on a very steep

●

With ESC disabled.

●

When the clutch pedal is pressed the en-

gine will start up again. The warning lamp will

switch off.

After emergency braking or loss of adhe-

slope.

sion.

●

With a trailer attached.

The engine does not turn off for various

reasons

Vehicles with an automatic gearbox

In a traffic jam after stopping for the fifth

●

Brake until the vehicle has come to a stand-

time, the vehicle will not stop any more.

Before stopping the vehicle, the system veri-

fies whether certain conditions are met. The

engine does not switch off, in the following

situations for example:

still, and keep your foot on the brake pedal or

activate the Auto Hold system so that the ve-

hicle remains braked. The engine will switch

off. The warning lamp  will appear in the

display. The engine can be stopped before

●

When the battery charge level is low.

While the particle filter is regenerating (die-

sel engines).

1)

In the mHEV version (semi-hybrid), above 20

km/h.

224

Start and driving

. is displayed on the instrument cluster

screen; it is also displayed in the driver infor-

mation system, .

Additional information related to the auto-

matic gearbox

CAUTION

The Start-Stop system must always be

switched off when driving through flooded

areas page 238.

›››

The engine stops when the selector lever is in

positions D, N and S, as well as in Tiptronic

mode. When the parking lock button P is acti-

vated, the engine will also remain off when

you remove your foot from the brake. In order

to start the engine up again the accelerator

must be pressed, or another gear engaged or

the brake released.

The engine starts by itself

When stopped, the normal system mode may

be interrupted in the following situations. The

engine restarts by itself without involvement

from the driver.

Note

●

In vehicles with an automatic gearbox,

you can control whether the engine should

switch off or not by reducing or increasing

the brake force applied. While the vehicle

remains stopped, the engine will not stop if

the brake pedal is slightly pressed, in traffic

jams with frequent stopping and starting

for example. As soon as strong pressure is

applied to the brake pedal, the engine will

stop.

●

The interior temperature differs from the

If the selector lever is placed in R while stop-

ped, the engine will start up again.

temperature selected on the climate control.

●

Defrost function button activated

page 155.

›››

Additional information about vehicles with

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

●

The brake has been pressed several times

consecutively.

In vehicles with ACC function, the engine will

start up again in certain operating conditions

if the radar sensor detects that the vehicle

ahead drives off again.

●

When stopped, the brake pedal must be

kept pressed to ensure that the vehicle

does not move.

The battery is too low.

●

High power consumption.

●

The vehicle rolls forward or backward with

●

If the engine “stalls” with a manual gear-

the engine off.

box, it can be directly started up again by

immediately pressing the clutch pedal.

WARNING

●

ESC deactivated.

●

Never switch the engine off until the vehi-

●

With an automatic gearbox, if the lever is

cle is stationary. The operation of the brake

and steering will not be fully guaranteed.

More force will be needed to turn the steer-

ing wheel or to brake. You could suffer an

accident and even serious injuries.

The accelerator pedal (automatic trans-

placed in position D, N or S after engaging

reverse gear, 10 km/h (6 mph) in a forwards

direction must be reached for the system to

be in a status to stop the engine.

mission), or the clutch (manual transmission)

is pressed.

●

The steering wheel turns slightly (except

mHEV version).

●

To avoid injury, make sure that the Start-

Stop system is switched off when working

in the engine compartment page 226.

●

When the air conditioning is activated.

›››

225

Driving

Selecting reverse gear

Manually connecting and discon-

necting the Start-Stop system

Note

Engage reverse gear only when the vehicle is

stopped.

The system switches on every time the en-

gine is turned off voluntarily.

●

Press the clutch pedal and keep your foot

right down.

●

With the gearbox lever in neutral, push it

Manual gearbox

downwards, move it to the left as far as it will

go and then forwards to select reverse

Changing gears

R

Fig. 166

.

›››

●

Release the clutch.

Changing down gears

While driving, changing down a gear must al-

ways be done gradually, i.e. to the gear di-

rectly below and when the engine speed is

Fig. 165 On the Infotainment system screen.:

Start-Stop system connected.  View in the

main menu.  View with the Infotainment sys-

tem off.

not too high

. Changing down while by-

›››

passing one or various gears at high speeds

or at high engine speeds can damage the

clutch and the gearbox, even if the clutch

pedal remains depressed

.

›››

If you do not want to use the system, you can

disconnect it manually through the Infotain-

ment system:

Fig. 166 Gear shift pattern of a 6-speed man-

ual gearbox

WARNING

When the engine is running, the vehicle will

start to move as soon as a gear is engaged

and the clutch released. This also happens

if the electronic parking brake is switched

on.

●

Select  > Assistants > Smart Assistants.

The position of the gears is indicated on the

gearbox lever Fig. 166.

›››

When the symbol  appears orange

Fig. 165 the system is activated and will

›››

●

Press the clutch pedal and keep your foot

stop and start. When the symbol  appears

in white the system is disconnected.

right down.

●

Never engage reverse gear when the ve-

●

hicle is moving.

Move the gearbox lever to the required po-

sition.

●

Release the clutch.

226

Start and driving

Selector lever positions

●

WARNING

Never hold the vehicle “on the clutch” on

hills with the engine on.

If the gear is changed down inappropriate-

ly by selecting a gear that is too low, you

may lose control of the vehicle, causing an

accident and serious injuries.

Automatic gearbox/DSG au-

tomatic gearbox

CAUTION

When travelling at high speeds or at high

engine speeds, selecting a gear that is too

low can cause considerable damage to the

clutch and the gearbox. This can also oc-

cur if the clutch pedal is pressed and held

and it does not engage.

Introduction

Your vehicle is equipped with an electronical-

ly controlled manual gearbox. Torque be-

tween the engine and the gearbox is trans-

mitted via two independent clutches. They

replace the torque converter found on con-

ventional automatic gearboxes and allow for

smooth, uninterrupted acceleration of the ve-

hicle.

Fig. 167 In the centre console: selector lever.

The selector lever position is shown when the

corresponding sign lights up. The engaged

gear is also displayed on the screen on the

manual gearbox positions M, D, S and E

(when the ECO driving profile is selected

CAUTION

To prevent damage and avoid premature

wear, please observe the following:

●

Do not rest your hand on the gear lever

The Tiptronic system allows the driver to

change gears manually page 228,

Changing gear in Tiptronic mode.

page 234).

›››

while driving. The pressure applied by your

hand is transmitted to the gearbox selector

forks.

›››

– Parking lock



When the P button is pressed, the drive

●

Do not leave your foot on the clutch ped-

wheels are locked. Only press P when the ve-

al; although the pressure may seem insig-

nificant, it can cause the premature wear of

the clutch plate. Use the foot rest when you

do not need to change gear.

Control lamps

hicle is stationary

.

›››

To press the P button you must press the

brake pedal simultaneously.

It lights up green



●

Always ensure that the vehicle is com-

The brake is not pressed.

To select a gear range, press the brake pedal.

pletely stopped before engaging the re-

verse gear.

– Reverse gear



Reverse gear must be engaged only when

the vehicle is stationary and the engine is

●

Always press the clutch to the floor when

changing gears.

»

idling

.

›››

227

Driving

To engage reverse gear R, you must press the

brake pedal simultaneously. The reverse

lights switch on when the reverse gear R is

selected and the ignition is on.

WARNING

this case, you should seek professional as-

sistance.

●

Take care not to press the accelerator

pedal when the vehicle is stopped. The ve-

hicle could start moving immediately (in

some cases even if the parking brake is en-

gaged) resulting in the risk of an accident.

Note

●

If a gear has been selected, the vehicle

– Neutral



does not move forwards or back. Proceed

to the next mode:

In this position, the gear is in neutral.

●

Never move the lever to R position when

driving. Failure to follow this instruction

could result in an accident or failure.

Press the brake pedal to move the lever from

N to D/S when the vehicle is stationary or at

–

When the vehicle does not move in the

required direction, the system may not

have the gear range correctly engag-

ed. Press the brake pedal and engage

the gear range again.

●

With the lever in any position , the foot

speeds below 3 km/h (2 mph)

.

›››

brake must be pushed down whenever the

engine is running. This is because an auto-

matic gearbox still transmits power even at

idling speed.

– Permanent forward drive position



–

If the vehicle still does not move in the

required direction, there is a system

malfunction. Seek specialist assistance

and have the system checked.

The D/S position enables the gears to be op-

erated in normal mode (D) or sport mode (S).

To select Sport mode S, move the lever back-

wards. Pushing the lever again will select nor-

mal mode D. The selected driving mode is

displayed on the instrument panel screen.

●

While you are selecting a gear and the

vehicle is stopped with the engine running,

do not accelerate. Failure to follow this in-

struction could result in an accident.

●

As a driver you should never leave your

Changing gear in Tiptronic mode

In normal mode (D), the gearbox selects the

best gear ratio. This depends on the engine

load, the road speed and the dynamic gear

control programme (DCP).

vehicle if the engine is running and a gear is

engaged. Switch on the electronic parking

brake and select the parking lock (P).

Note

Sport mode (S) should be selected for a

sporty driving style. This setting makes use of

the engine's maximum power output. When

accelerating the gear shifts will be noticea-

ble.

●

If the lever is moved accidentally to N

when driving, release the accelerator and

let the engine speed drop to idling before

selecting gear range D or S again.

●

If the power supply is interrupted while

Under certain circumstances (e.g. on moun-

tain roads) it can be advantageous to switch

the P parking lock is active, it will not be

possible to move the lever. If this should

happen the manual release can be used. In

Fig. 168 Steering wheel: automatic transmis-

sion levers

tiptronic mode page 228, to adapt the

›››

gears to suit the road conditions.

228

Start and driving

Tiptronic gives the driver the option to

change gears manually.

Stopping on a downhill

●

Also, if a lower gear is selected, the sys-

tem will not change until it detects that the

engine will not reach its maximum RPM.

Always apply the brake pedal firmly to pre-

vent the vehicle from moving; if necessary,

apply the electronic parking brake

When you change to the Tiptronic pro-

gramme, the vehicle remains in the currently

selected gear. This is possible as long as the

system is not changing gear automatically

due to a traffic situation.

.

›››

Do not accelerate while a range of gears is

engaged to prevent the car from rolling

Driving with an automatic gearbox

downhill

.

›››

The gearbox changes gear ratios automati-

cally as the vehicle moves.

Using Tiptronic with the steering wheel

paddles

Starting off uphill with the Auto Hold func-

tion

The engine can only be started with the lever

in the N position and the P button must be lit

up (the parking lock remains active).

The gear shift paddles can be used when the

selector lever is in the D/S position.

●

Once you have engaged a gear, take your

foot off the brake pedal and gently press the

accelerator.

●

+

–

Press the gearshift paddle

to select a

Driving down hills

higher gear Fig. 168.

›››

Starting off uphill without the Auto Hold

function

Under certain circumstances it may be ad-

vantageous to use the Tiptronic mode to se-

lect the gear manually according to driving

●

Press the gearshift paddle

lower gear.

●

Pull on the electronic parking brake button.

Once you have engaged a gear, gently

●

To exit the Tiptronic mode, pull the right-

conditions

.

›››

hand gear shirt paddle towards the steering

wheel for approximately 1 second.

press the accelerator and pull on the elec-

tronic parking brake button.

Stop/Park

To park on flat ground, just press the P button

Fig. 167. On slopes the parking brake

To keep Tiptronic mode permanently switch-

ed on, move the selector lever to the S posi-

tion. If the selector lever is in position D and

the gear shift paddles are not operated for

some time, the Tiptronic mode will automati-

cally be switched off.

›››

Back-up programme

should first be applied and then press the P

button.

If all the positions of the lever are shown over

a light background on the instrument cluster,

there is a system fault and the automatic

gearbox will operate with the backup pro-

gramme. It is still possible to drive the vehicle,

however, at low speeds and within a selected

range of gears. Driving in reverse gear may

not be possible.

If the driver door is opened and the P button

has not been activated, the vehicle could

move. The following warning is displayed on

the instrument panel:  Gear change: se-

lector lever in the drive position!.

Additionally, a buzzer will sound.

CAUTION

●

When accelerating, if a higher gear is not

selected, it will automatically change

shortly before reaching the maximum per-

mitted RPM.

»

229

Driving

Parking lock manual release mechanism

Condition: the engine must have reached op-

erating temperature and the steering wheel

must not be turned.

WARNING

If, in the event of a power failure (e.g. the 12-

volt vehicle battery is drained), the vehicle

must be towed and the parking lock can be

released manually. In this case, you should

seek professional assistance.

Please note that if the road surface is slip-

pery or wet, the kick-down feature could

cause the driving wheels to spin, which

could result in skidding.

The engine speed for Launch-control is differ-

ent on petrol and diesel engines.

To use the Launch-control you must discon-

nect the traction control (TCS) or activate the

ESC Sport mode, using the Infotainment sys-

tem menu: press the function button  > As-

sistants > ESC menu. The warning lamp 

will remain on.

CAUTION

Kick-down

●

If you stop the vehicle on a gradient, do

The kick-down device provides maximum ac-

celeration when the gear selector lever is in

the positions D, S or in Tiptronic mode.

not attempt to stop it from rolling by de-

pressing the accelerator when a gear has

been selected. This could cause overheat-

ing and damage the automatic gearbox.

When the accelerator pedal is pressed right

down, the automatic gearbox will shift down

to a lower gear, depending on road speed

and engine speed. This takes advantage of

the maximum acceleration of the vehicle

●

Press the brake pedal with your left foot

and hold it down for at least one second.

●

If you allow the vehicle to roll with the

lever in position N and the engine off, the

automatic gearbox will be damaged due to

a lack of lubrication.

●

Set the selector lever to position S or Tip-

tronic, or select the sport driving profile from

the SEAT Drive Profile page 234.

›››

●

.

›››

In certain driving situations or traffic con-

●

ditions, the gears could overheat and be

damaged! If the warning lamp  lights up,

stop the vehicle as soon as you can and

With your right foot, press the accelerator

The upshift to the next higher gear is delayed

until the engine reaches maximum rpm.

down to the full throttle or kick-down position.

The engine speed will stabilise at about

3,200 rpm (petrol engine) or about

2,000 rpm (diesel engine).

wait for the gearbox to cool page 232.

›››

WARNING

●

If the gearbox operates with the backup

Observe the safety warnings

in Selec-

›››

programme, take the vehicle to a special-

ised workshop and have the fault repaired

without delay.

●

Take your left foot off the brake pedal. The

tor lever positions on page 228.

vehicle starts with maximum acceleration.

●

Never allow the brake to rub and do not

use the brake pedal too often or for long

periods, as the brakes can overheat. This

reduces the braking power, increases the

braking distance or even causes a brake

system fault.

WARNING

●

Always adapt your driving style to the

traffic conditions.

Launch-control program

●

Only use the Launch control programme

The Launch-control programme enables

maximum acceleration from a standstill.

when road and traffic conditions permit,

and make sure your manner of driving and

accelerating the vehicle does not

●

If you have to stop on a hill, keep the vehi-

cle’s brakes applied with the brake pedal or

parking brake.

230

Start and driving

The assistant attempts to maintain the speed

at which the vehicle was travelling when the

brake was applied, within logical limits. It may

be necessary to correct the speed by press-

ing the brake.

When driving with the selector lever in posi-

tion D without pressing the accelerator or

brake, the vehicle rolls (coasting). The gears

will automatically disengage and the vehicle

will roll freely, without the effect of the engine

brake.

inconvenience or endanger other road

users.

●

Make sure that the ESC remains switched

on. Please note that when the TCS and ESC

are deactivated, the wheels may start to

spin, causing the vehicle to lose grip. Risk

of accident!

The assistant can only change down as far

as 3rd gear. It is possible that on very steep

slopes you may have to switch to tiptronic

mode and thus manually change down to

2nd or 1st gear to take advantage of engine

braking and take the load off the brake sys-

tem.

Activation of the inertia mode

●

After moving off, you should activate the

TCS or deactivate the ESC “sport” mode

again using the Infotainment system: func-

tion button  > Assistants.

Condition: lever in position D, slopes of less

than 12 % and speeds between 20 and 130

km/h.

●

Gently take your foot off the accelerator.

Note

Downhill speed control is deactivated as

soon as the road levels out again or you press

the accelerator pedal.

The indication will be shown on the instru-

ment panel , the engaged gear and cur-

rent consumption will disappear and the

word “Inertia” will be displayed.

●

After using the Launch control pro-

gramme, the temperature in the gearbox

may have increased considerably. In this

case, the programme could be disabled for

several minutes. The programme can be

used again after the cooling phase.

On vehicles with a cruise control system

page 242, downhill speed control is acti-

›››

While the vehicle rolls, the engine runs at

idling speed.

vated when you set a cruising speed.

●

Accelerating with the launch control pro-

WARNING

gramme places a heavy load on all parts of

the vehicle. This can result in increased

wear and tear.

Activating the inertia disconnection

The downhill speed control cannot defy the

laws of physics. Therefore, speed cannot

be maintained constant in all situations. Al-

ways be prepared to use the brakes!

Condition: lever in position D, slopes of less

than 12 % and speeds between 40 and 160

km/h (it is deactivated when the lever is in po-

sition S).

downhill assistant

●

Gently take your foot off the accelerator.

Inertia mode and inertia discon-

nection

Downhill speed control is activated when the

lever is in the D/S position and the brake is

applied. An appropriate lower gear is engag-

ed.

Applying both the inertia mode (= prolonged

section with less energy) and inertia discon-

nection (= shorter section without the need

for fuel) facilitates improved fuel consumption

and emission balance. In the inertia

The inertia mode allows you to travel certain

distances without using the accelerator,

which saves fuel.

»

231

Driving

disconnection mode, the engine is not only

disconnected but also turns off.

 Gearbox: System fault! You may

continue driving.

Note

●

The operation of the inertia mode in com-

●

Have the fault corrected by a specialised

The indications  and  will be displayed on

the instrument cluster, the selected gear will

disappear, the RPM of the combustion engine

will drop to 0 and the text “coasting” will ap-

pear under current consumption.

bination with hybrid engines (MHEV and

PHEV) can cause the combustion engine to

switch off.

workshop without delay.

 Gearbox: System fault! You can

continue driving with restrictions.

Reverse gear disabled

●

The inertia mode will be automatically

disconnected on gradients steeper than

15%.

●

Take the vehicle to a specialised workshop

Stopping inertia mode

and have the fault repaired.

●

Press the brake or the accelerator pedal.

 Gearbox: System fault! You can

continue driving in D until switch-

ing off the engine

Indications on the instrument panel

display

To take advantage of the engine's inertia

mode, simply remove your foot from the ac-

celerator.

●

Clutch

Park the vehicle in a safe place. Seek spe-

If the vehicle has SEAT Drive Profile

cialist assistance.

 Clutch overheating! Please stop!

page 234, the inertia mode can be activa-

›››

●

The clutch has overheated and could be

 Gearbox: too hot. Adapt your

driving accordingly

ted in Normal, Eco and Individual modes. In

Eco mode, it is activated whenever the oper-

ating conditions are met, regardless of the

smoothness with which the foot is removed

from the accelerator.

damaged. Stop and wait for the gearbox to

cool with the engine idling and press the P

parking lock button. When the warning lamp

and the driver message turn off, go to a spe-

cialised workshop to get the fault repaired. If

they do not turn off, do not continue driving.

Seek specialist assistance.

●

Continue driving at moderate speeds.

When the warning lamp switches off, you can

continue driving in a normal manner.

 Gearbox: press the brake and en-

gage a gear again.

WARNING

●

If the inertia mode has been switched on,

●

If the warning was caused by the tempera-

take into account, when approaching an

obstacle, that the vehicle will not deceler-

ate in the usual manner: risk of accident!

Faults in the gearbox

ture of the gearbox, this driver message will

be displayed when the gearbox has cooled

again.

 Gearbox: Fault! Stop the vehicle

and place the lever in the position

P.

●

When using inertia mode while travelling

down hills, the vehicle can increase speed:

risk of accident!

●

There is a fault in the gearbox. Stop the ve-

●

If other users drive your vehicle, warn

hicle in a safe place and do not continue driv-

ing. Seek specialist assistance.

them about inertia mode.

232

Start and driving

WARNING

in the ignition, but more force must be ap-

plied.

Gear-change recommenda-

tion

The gear change recommendation is an

auxiliary function and in no case should be

a substitute for careful driving.

Progressive steering

Selecting the optimal gear

Depending on the vehicle’s features, it may or

may not incorporate a progressive steering

system.

●

Responsibility for selecting the correct

gear, depending on the circumstances,

rests solely with the driver.

Depending on the equipment on the instru-

ment panel screen, a recommendation is

shown with the gear that should be engaged

to optimise consumption.

In city traffic you do not need to turn so much

on parking, manoeuvring or in very tight turns.

For the sake of the environment

Selecting the correct gear can help to save

fuel.

On the road or on the motorway, progressive

steering transmits, for example, in bends, a

sportier, more direct and noticeably more dy-

namic driving sensation.

On vehicles with automatic transmission, it is

only displayed when driving in Tiptronic

mode page 228.

›››

Note

No recommendation will appear if the opti-

mal gear is engaged. The current gear will be

displayed.

The recommended gear indication turns off

when the clutch pedal is or when the vehi-

cle is no longer in Tiptronic mode.

Control lamp

Display

Meaning

It lights up red



Optimum gear.



Faulty steering.

Do not continue driving, stop the vehicle as soon as

possible and in a safe manner.

Take the vehicle to a specialised workshop and have

the fault repaired as soon as possible.

Steering

Changing to a higher gear is rec-

ommended.

  

  

Information relating to different ve-

hicle processes.

Changing to a lower gear is rec-

ommended.

»

Electro-mechanical power steering adapts

electronically to the speed of the car, torque

and steering angle.

Information regarding the “cleanliness” of

the particulate filter

When the exhaust system detects that the

particulate filter is close to saturation, this

system’s self-cleaning function recommends

the optimal gear for that function

Even if the power steering fails or the engine

is stopped, it is possible to continue to rotate

the steering wheel as long as the key remains

page 325.

›››

233

Driving

file is selected, the Start-stop function is acti-

vated.

●

Stop the vehicle at the next opportunity

It lights up yellow



and in a safe place.

Limited steering operation.

In vehicles with automatic transmission, the

gear change timing is changed to put the

changes at higher or lower revolutions. The

Eco profile activates the Inertia function,

thereby reducing consumption. The rest of

the driving profiles will activate the inertia use

function when the selector lever is not in the S

position, depending on how the accelerator

Drive carefully to a specialised workshop to have the

steering checked.

If the warning light does not come on again after re-

starting the engine and driving a short distance, it is

not necessary to check the steering.

SEAT Drive Profiles

Introduction

OR: The 12-volt battery was disconnected and re-

connected.

Drive a short distance at 15-20 km / h (9-12 mph).

The SEAT Drive Profile enables the driver to

choose between the Eco, Normal, Sport and

Individual profiles, which modify the behav-

iour of several vehicle functions, providing dif-

ferent driving experiences.

pedal is released page 231. When the ve-

›››

hicle is turned on again, the function is activa-

ted by default to reduce consumption.

It flashes yellow



The steering column is jammed.

When stopped, turn the steering wheel in both direc-

tions.

With manual transmission, the Eco profile

changes the gear change recommendations

to facilitate more efficient driving.

In models fitted with adaptive chassis control

(DCC)

a Comfort profile is also available.

OR: The steering column does not unlock or lock.

Turn off the ignition and turn it on again. Consider the

messages shown on the instrument panel display.

Do not continue driving if the steering column re-

mains locked after switching on the ignition. Seek

specialist assistance.

Dynamic chassis control (DCC)

The Individual profile can be configured ac-

cording to personal preferences. The other

profiles have a fixed configuration.

The DCC continuously adapts the damping

of the suspension system to the characteris-

tics of the road surface and the driving situa-

tion (speed, acceleration and steering wheel

angle) according to the selected driving pro-

file. The vehicle's dynamic behaviour is also

adapted to improve grip on curves and turn-

ing capacity. Within the Individual profile you

can also adjust the DCC level in a custom-

ised manner.

The control lamp should light up for a few

seconds when the ignition is switched on. It

should go out once the engine is started.

Description

Depending on the equipment fitted in the ve-

hicle, SEAT Drive Profile can operate on the

following functions:

WARNING

Never ignore the warning lamps or messag-

es.

Engine

In the event of a fault in the DCC, the follow-

ing message is displayed on the instrument

screen Fault: shock absorber regula-

tion

●

If the warning lamps and the correspond-

Depending on the profile selected, the engine

responds more quickly or smoothly to the ac-

celerator being pressed. When the Eco pro-

ing messages are ignored, the vehicle may

stall in traffic, causing serious damage or

accidents and injuries.

234

Start and driving

●

Steering

OR: Press the function button , slide your

Driving pro-

file

Characteristics

finger horizontally across the screen to SEAT

Drive Profile. Press on  to change the driv-

ing profile or double press on the icon to show

the available profiles.

The power steering varies its driving modes

and adapts to the profile selected, thus offer-

ing the best behaviour for each situation.

It allows you to personalise the

configuration. The functions that

can be adjusted depend on the

equipment fitted in the vehicle.



Individual

●

OR: When the infotainment system is off,

Air conditioning

pressing on the SEAT Drive Profile icon dis-

plays the available driving profiles.

The Climatronic can operate in Eco mode

with particularly limited consumption.

a)

Only for models fitted with adaptive chassis control

(DCC).

The icon of the selected profile is displayed

at all times in the upper central part of the in-

strument panel and on the Infotainment Sys-

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

Kick-down

Depending on the driving profile, the perform-

ance of the ACC varies, to allow more sporty

acceleration and braking or a more respect-

ful fuel consumption.

The kick-down feature allows maximum ac-

tem screen when it is turned off page 89.

›››

celeration page 230.

›››

If the Eco profile has been selected in the

SEAT Drive Profile, and the accelerator is

pressed beyond a hard point, the engine

power is automatically controlled to give

your vehicle maximum acceleration.

Driving pro-

Characteristics

file

PreCrash system

Places the vehicle in a low state

of consumption, facilitating a

fuel-saving driving style that is

The PreCrash system adapts according to

the selected configuration. The Sport driving

profile has specific settings to adapt to driv-



respectful to the environment.

WARNING

ing characteristics page 24.

›››

It permits more relaxed and

When operating SEAT Drive Profile, pay at-

tention to all traffic: doing otherwise could

cause an accident.

comfortable driving, for example

for long motorway journeys. Its

main characteristic is the soft



Convenience^a)

SEAT Drive Profile settings

suspension setting (DCC).

Note

There are several ways to select a driving

profile using the infotainment system:

Offers a balanced driving experi-

ence, suitable for everyday use.



Normal

●

When the engine is switched off it will

store the driving profile that was selected

when the ignition was turned off. When re-

started, the engine and the gearbox will

start in their Normal mode. To return the en-

gine and gear to your desired mode, rese-

lect the corresponding driving profile.

●

Press the function button  > Drive Profile,

available profiles will be displayed.

Provides a complete dynamic

performance in the vehicle, ena-

bling the user a more sporty driv-

ing style.



Sport

●

OR: Press the function button  > Vehicle

settings > SEAT Drive Profile, available pro-

files will be displayed.

»

235

Driving

●

Do not use full throttle.

Do not force the engine above two thirds of

Active cylinder management (ACT®)

●

Your speed and driving style must always

be adjusted to visibility, weather, and traf-

fic conditions.

Depending on vehicle equipment, the active

cylinder management (ACT®) may deacti-

vate some of the engine cylinders if the driv-

ing situation does not require too much pow-

er. The number of active cylinders can be

seen on the instrument panel display.

its maximum speed.

●

The Eco profile is not recommended

●

Do not tow a trailer.

when towing a vehicle.

Between 1000 and 1500 kilometres (600

to 1000 miles), gradually increase power

until reaching the maximum speed and high

engine speeds.

page 70.

›››

Driving tips

Foresight when driving

Running in new tyres and brake pads

Running in

If you think ahead when driving, you will need

to brake less and thus accelerate less. Take

advantage of the inertia of the vehicle when-

ever possible, with a gear engaged. This

takes advantage of the engine braking effect,

reducing wear on the brakes and tyres. Emis-

sions and fuel consumption will drop to zero.

●

Replacement of wheel rims and new tyres

Please observe the instructions for running-in

new components.

page 345.

›››

●

Information about brakes page 270.

›››

Running-in the engine

For the sake of the environment

A new engine must be driven through a run-in

period during its first 1500 kilometres (1000

miles). During its first few hours of running, the

internal friction in the engine is greater than

later on when all the moving parts have bed-

ded down.

If the engine is run in gently, the life of the

engine will be increased and the engine oil

consumption reduced.

Changing gear to save energy

An effective way of saving is to change in ad-

vance to a higher gear.

Manual transmission: shift up from first to

second gear as soon as possible. Choosing

the right gear enables fuel savings. Select the

highest possible gear appropriate for the

driving situation (the engine should continue

functioning with cyclical regularity).

Economical and environmentally

friendly driving

How the vehicle is driven for the first 1500 km

(1000 miles) influences the future engine per-

formance. Throughout the life of the vehicle, it

should be driven at a moderate speed (espe-

cially when the engine is cold) this will reduce

engine wear and increase its useful life. Never

drive at extremely low engine speeds. Always

engage a lower gear when the engine works

“irregularly”. For the first 1000 km or

Fuel consumption, environmental pollution

and wear to the engine, brakes and tyres all

depend largely on driving style. Consumption

can be reduced between 10-15% with an effi-

cient driving type. The following section gives

you some tips on lessening the impact on the

environment and reducing your operating

costs at the same time.

Automatic transmission: accelerate gradu-

ally and without reaching the “kick-down”

position.

600 miles, please note:

236

Start and driving

Avoid driving at high speed

engine can consume up to 10% more fuel

than necessary.

move it when not needed. At speeds of

100-120 km/h (62-75 mph), this will save 12%

of fuel.

Avoid travelling at your vehicle’s top speed,

whenever possible. Fuel consumption, emis-

sion of harmful gases and noise pollution

multiply as speed is increased. Driving at

moderate speeds will help to save fuel.

Avoid short journeys

Save electrical energy

The engine and catalytic converter need to

reach their optimal operating temperature

in order to minimise fuel consumption and

emissions.

The engine drives the alternator, thereby

generating electricity. This implies that any

increase in power consumption also increa-

ses fuel consumption! For this reason, switch

off any unneeded electrical devices. Devices

that use a lot of electricity include the blower

at a high setting, the rear window heating or

the seat heating.

Reduce idling time

In vehicles with the Start-Stop system idling is

automatically reduced. In vehicles without

the Start-Stop system it is worth switching off

the engine, for example, at level crossings

and at traffic lights that remain red for long

periods of time. When an engine has reached

operating temperature, and depending on

the cylinder capacity, keeping it switched off

for a minimum of about 5 seconds already

saves more than the amount of fuel necessa-

ry for restarting.

A cold engine consumes a disproportionate

amount of fuel. The engine reaches its work-

ing temperature after about four kilometres

(2.5 miles), when fuel consumption will return

to a normal level.

Plug-in hybrid drive: brake early and evenly

to take advantage of energy recovery.

Check tyre pressure

Always make sure the tyres are inflated to the

Note

correct pressures page 347 to save fuel. If

›››

●

If you have the Start-Stop system, it is

the pressure is below half bar, fuel consump-

tion may increase by 5%. Due to the greater

rolling resistance, under-inflation also increa-

ses tyre wear and impairs handling.

recommended that it should not be discon-

nected.

The engine takes a long time to warm up

when it is idling. Mechanical wear and pollu-

tant emissions are also especially high during

this initial warm-up phase. It is therefore best

to drive off immediately after starting the en-

gine. Avoid running the engine at high speed.

●

It is recommended that you close the

windows when driving at more than

60 km/h (37 mph).

Do not use winter tyres all year round as

they increase fuel consumption by up to 10%.

●

Do not drive with your foot resting on the

clutch pedal, as the pressure can make the

plate slip. This causes wear and can dam-

age the clutch plate.

Avoid carrying unnecessary loads

Given that every kilo of extra weight will in-

crease the fuel consumption, it is advisable

make sure that no unnecessary loads are be-

ing transported.

Regular maintenance

●

Do not ride the clutch on a hill, use the

Regular servicing helps in saving fuel even

before the engine is started. A well-serviced

engine gives you the benefit of improved fuel

efficiency as well as maximum reliability and

an enhanced resale value. A badly serviced

brake. The fuel consumption will be lower

and you will prevent the clutch plate from

being damaged.

»

Since the luggage rack increases the aero-

dynamic drag of the vehicle, you should re-

237

Driving -> Start and driving for Your Seat Leon 4 Door Fourth Generation (2021-2026)

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