The Volkswagen CFGC is a 1,395 cc, inline‑four turbo‑charged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing, delivering 92 kW (125 PS) and 200 Nm of torque. The compact design with integrated exhaust manifold enables rapid warm‑up and consistent low‑end response.
Fitted to models such as the Mk7 Golf, Polo GTI, and SEAT Ibiza Cupra, the CFGC was engineered for responsive ur…
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models meet Euro 6 .
The Volkswagen CFGC is a 1,395 cc inline‑four turbo‑charged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and performance variants (2012–2018). It combines direct fuel injection (TSI) with a BorgWarner turbocharger to deliver brisk low‑rpm torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances agility with everyday usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min, RON 98 recommended) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 80.0 mm | |
Power output | 92 kW (125 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,400–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high-pressure direct injection (up to 110 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual-circuit layout | |
Turbocharger | BorgWarner K03 with integrated exhaust manifold | |
Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC (maintenance-free design) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 112 kg |
The Volkswagen CFGC was used across Volkswagen's Mk7 and 6R platforms with transverse mounting and shared with SEAT and Škoda under MQB/MSB architectures. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Polo GTI and revised cooling in the Golf—and from 2015 the HPFP and cam follower were upgraded, creating service part distinctions. Partnerships enabled SEAT's Ibiza Cupra and Škoda's Fabia vRS to use the same engine block with different ECU tuning. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The CFGC offers responsive performance and is generally robust if maintained properly. Early models (2012–2014) are prone to HPFP and cam follower wear, but post-2015 revisions improved reliability. Using RON 98 fuel, VW 502 00 oil, and adhering to service intervals greatly enhances longevity.
Top issues include HPFP failure due to cam follower wear, intake valve carbon buildup (from direct injection), coolant flange leaks, and turbo oil coking. These are documented in VW service bulletins, especially SIB 2013‑12 for HPFP concerns.
The CFGC powered the Golf Mk7, Polo GTI (6R), and was also used by SEAT in the Ibiza Cupra and Škoda in the Fabia vRS. All are 1.4 TSI 125 PS applications with transverse mounting.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the CFGC platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.
Real-world consumption is ~7.2 L/100km (city) and ~5.0 L/100km (highway), or about 40 mpg UK combined. Aggressive driving reduces this significantly; expect 35–45 mpg (UK) depending on use. RON 98 fuel improves efficiency and engine protection.
Yes. The CFGC is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails (rare but possible), piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the chain is designed as maintenance-free and generally reliable if oil is changed regularly.
Volkswagen specifies 5W‑40 synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 or 504 00 standards. Using non-approved oil risks cam follower and HPFP wear. Change every 15,000 km or annually, whichever comes first.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
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Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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