The Volkswagen CMVA 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 92 kW (125 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, optimized for urban efficiency with responsive low‑end pull.
Fitted to models such as the Polo Mk5, Golf Mk7, and Škoda Fabia Mk3, the CMVA was engineered for compact vehicle applications prioritizing fu…
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2019 models meet Euro 6 .
The Volkswagen CMVA is a 1,395 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2012–2019). It combines gasoline direct injection with a single turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑rpm torque and efficient urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances everyday usability with regulatory compliance.
| 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 | 92 kW (125 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,400–4,000 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 | |
Turbocharger | Single IHI VF33 turbo (variable geometry) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted; tensioner‑prone in early builds) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 112 kg |
The Volkswagen CMVA was used across Volkswagen's Polo Mk5, Golf Mk7, and Škoda Fabia Mk3 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Golf and compact exhaust manifolds in the Polo—and from 2018 the Polo Mk6 transitioned to the 1.0 TSI, creating clear interchange limits. 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 CMVA offers good urban drivability and generally solid reliability, but early units (2012–2016) are prone to timing chain tensioner wear. Post-2016 revisions significantly improved durability. With regular oil changes using VW 502 00/504 00 oil and timely tensioner upgrades, well-maintained examples can exceed 200,000 km without major issues.
Key issues include timing chain tensioner wear (pre-2016), turbo actuator failure, high-pressure fuel pump wear, and plastic thermostat housing leaks. These are documented in Volkswagen service bulletins, particularly STB 2015‑12 for tensioner concerns. Most are manageable with proactive maintenance.
The CMVA powered the Polo Mk5 (2012–2017), Golf Mk7 (2013–2019), and Škoda Fabia Mk3 (2015–2019). It was shared within the Volkswagen Group but not used by Audi or SEAT in this configuration. All applications meet Euro 5 (2012–2014) or Euro 6 (2015–2019) emissions standards.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the CMVA 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 averages 6.0–6.8 L/100km (42–47 mpg UK) in mixed driving for the Polo 1.4 TSI. Highway cruising can achieve ~5.2 L/100km (54 mpg UK), while aggressive urban use may exceed 8.0 L/100km. Figures assume 95 RON fuel and standard driving conditions.
Yes. The CMVA is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails (rare but possible under extreme oil starvation), piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the front-mounted chain is robust and designed for the engine’s lifetime with proper oil maintenance.
Volkswagen specifies synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 or 504 00 standards (typically 5W‑30 or 5W‑40). This low-ash formulation protects turbo bearings and the timing chain. Oil changes every 15,000 km or annually are essential to prevent tensioner and turbo wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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