The Volkswagen CGRA is a 1,395 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing. In standard form it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, with strong mid‑range responsiveness ideal for compact and family vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Mk7 Golf, Mk2 Jetta, and Mk3 Touran—including the 1.4 TSI 150 PS variants—the CGRA was engineered…
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2019 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market .
The Volkswagen CGRA is a 1,395 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engineered for compact and family vehicles (2012–2019). It combines direct injection (TSI) with variable valve timing to deliver responsive mid‑range torque and smooth high‑rpm power. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances performance with urban efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 80.0 mm | |
Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2019) | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled, dual‑circuit | |
Turbocharger | Single fixed‑geometry turbo (BorgWarner KP39) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 112 kg |
The Volkswagen CGRA was used across Volkswagen's Mk7/Mk2 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with SEAT and Škoda under the MQB architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Touran and modified exhaust routing in the Golf Variant—and from 2016 the EA211 evo update introduced updated PCV housings and injector seals, creating minor interchange limits. Partnerships enabled SEAT and Škoda to use identical CGRA units in Leon and Octavia. 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 CGRA is generally robust with strong mid-range torque. Its main concern is intake carbon buildup due to direct injection. With proper maintenance—especially using VW 502 00/504 00 oil, timely oil changes, and periodic intake cleaning—the engine can reliably exceed 200,000 km.
Top issues include carbon buildup on intake valves, PCV system failure, minor oil consumption in high-mileage units, and turbo wastegate rattle. These are documented in Volkswagen service bulletins, particularly SIB 2016‑03‑TSI‑1395 for intake and PCV concerns.
The CGRA powered the Golf VII, Jetta Mk2, Touran II, and was also used by SEAT (León Mk3) and Škoda (Octavia III) from 2012–2019. All are 1.4 TSI 150 PS variants under the EA211 family, meeting Euro 5 or Euro 6 depending on year.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the CGRA 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.
In a Golf VII 1.4 TSI 150 PS, real-world consumption is ~6.8 L/100km (city) and ~5.0 L/100km (highway), or about 46 mpg UK combined. With conservative driving, 48–52 mpg UK is achievable on mixed routes. Fuel quality and service history significantly affect results.
Yes. The CGRA 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 typically lasts the engine’s lifetime if oil is changed correctly.
Volkswagen specifies 5W‑30 or 5W‑40 synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 or 504 00 standards. Never use older 501 01 oils. Change every 15,000 km or annually to protect pistons, turbo, and timing components.
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.
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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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