Leon FR 1.4 TSI variants

[Daire92]

Hi all,
I just recently picked up my 2016 Leon FR 1.4 125bhp in Ireland. I absolutely love it but I have seen that the 1.4 tsi comes as a 150PS version in the FR in the UK where as we do not have that engine option at all over here as far as I can tell. Are these engines physically the same just with different tunes or is there a fundamental difference that would prevent me from safely reaching the 150PS power level with a remap?

 

[Mk3 Se]

Physically they will be the same engine but there are significant differences.

The 150 PS version is fitted with ACT which turns off cylinders when cruising on light throttle. It probably has a different turbo, injectors plus a myriad of other minor differences.

You could have your car re-mapped to produce more power but you would never make it into a UK spec FR.

Just remember that a re-map has the potential to affect your warranty and your insurers should be informed of any changes as they will affect cover.

Also remember that there is no guarantee a re-map is as good as a fancy web site claims. Buyer beware.

 

[slamka33]

For my understanding, they are different motors.
That one with 150PS, as mentioned Mk3_Se is with ACT, Active Cylinder Technology, when on light throtle. See this video how it works.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJ5opH5qgj0

Difference is not just in PS, you basically don't have to take care about PS, but what is more important is torque.
110PS = 200Nm torque
150PS = 250Nm torque

 

[unclelonghair]

The 125PS engine is the older chain driven engine, which was also available in twin charged form in a number of other VAG cars (140-180ish). The 150PS engine is a newer design, and is available in 140PS (without ACT) and 150PS with ACT. It has a cam belt, but it is supposed to last the life of the engine. The 125PS engine is supposed to remap quite well to 150ish.

 

[Peter55]

The 125PS engine is the older chain driven engine, which was also available in twin charged form in a number of other VAG cars (140-180ish). The 150PS engine is a newer design, and is available in 140PS (without ACT) and 150PS with ACT. It has a cam belt, but it is supposed to last the life of the engine. The 125PS engine is supposed to remap quite well to 150ish.

That's very good info, I've just ordered a 150 TSI, despite problems a few years ago with a Scirocco 160 TSI and a rattling Timing Chain, took a long time for VW to admit the fault.

 

[Daire92]

Excellent advice lads, I really appreciate it. Quite happy with the car as is. Got it on finance so I have the option to change in 3 years anyway so I think a Cupra could be next in line.

 

[philhoward]

Didn't have a timing chain issue with my twincharger Scirocco - just melting engines because VWUK specified the wrong spark plugs to be fitted at service time. Cost them an engine rebuild and about 8 sets of spark plugs on mine.

 

[Mk3 Se]

The 125PS engine is the older chain driven engine, which was also available in twin charged form in a number of other VAG cars (140-180ish). The 150PS engine is a newer design, and is available in 140PS (without ACT) and 150PS with ACT. It has a cam belt, but it is supposed to last the life of the engine. The 125PS engine is supposed to remap quite well to 150ish.

Not correct.

All the 1.2 and 1.4 Leons use the brand new belt drive cam engine regardless of BHP.

On the 1.4's its easy to spot this, the old chain cam engine was 1390cc, the belt drive is 1395cc.

The old engine had an iron block, the new one is all alloy.

The old engine has not been fitted to any Mk3 Leon variants.

The cam belt is not fitted for life. The official Seat change spec from an e-mail I received when I enquired is "we recommend the cam belt is first checked at 60,000 miles, and every 20,000
miles thereafter. If there is no damage at these points the cambelt will not need changing. If the belt is not changed, regardless of condition, it must be replaced at 120,000 miles or when the vehicle is 5 years old, whichever comes first."