The Volkswagen CNRB is a 1,968 cc, inline‑four turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features common — rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), delivering 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque. The aluminium — silicon alloy block contributes to reduced weight while maintaining structural rigidity.
Fitted to models such as the Golf Mk6, Jetta, Passat B6/B7, and Tiguan, the CNRB was engineer…
All CNRB production years (2008–2015) meet Euro 5 emissions standards .
The Volkswagen CNRB is a 1,968 cc inline‑four turbocharged diesel engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2008–2015). It combines Bosch CP4.2 common‑rail injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances everyday drivability with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel (ULSD EN 590) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 16.2:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual-circuit thermal management | |
Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett or BorgWarner) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC (maintenance-free design) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 149 kg |
The Volkswagen CNRB was used across Volkswagen's A5/PQ35 and B6/B7 platforms with transverse and longitudinal mounting respectively and shared within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Tiguan and modified cooling in the Passat—and from 2012 the facelifted Golf Mk6 retained the same engine code but with updated emissions calibration, maintaining interchangeability. Partnerships enabled use in Škoda and SEAT models. 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
Yes, with caveats. The CNRB is robust when maintained properly. Early engines (2008–2010) had HPFP cam follower concerns, resolved by TSB 01‑11‑08. Post-2011 units are highly reliable. Use VW 507 00 oil, change every 15,000 km, and ensure EN 590 diesel to maximise longevity.
Top issues include HPFP cam follower wear (pre-2011), EGR cooler leaks, intake swirl flap failure, and DPF pressure sensor drift. HPFP and EGR concerns are addressed in TSBs; swirl flaps are a known design limitation in EA189 diesels.
Primarily the Golf Mk6, Jetta A5, Passat B6/B7, and Tiguan (2008–2015), all with 2.0 TDI 140 PS. Also used in Škoda Superb and SEAT Exeo under shared EA189 platform architecture with identical powertrain calibration.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the CNRB 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 figures: ~5.8 L/100km (city), ~4.2 L/100km (highway), or ~55 mpg UK combined in a Golf Mk6. Aggressive driving increases consumption; eco-driving can achieve high 50s mpg UK on mixed routes.
Yes. The CNRB is an interference design. If the timing chain fails (rare but possible), piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the chain is designed as lifetime; no scheduled replacement is required if oil is maintained.
Volkswagen specifies 5W‑30 synthetic oil meeting VW 507 00 standards. This low-SAPS oil protects the DPF, turbo, and HPFP cam follower. Never use older 505 01 or non-approved oils.
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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