The Volkswagen DAFA is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2019 and 2024. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing. In standard form it delivers 180 kW (245 PS) and 370 Nm of torque, enabling strong performance with refined drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Mk8 Golf R, Audi S3 (8Y), and Cupra León, the DAFA was engineered for high output with everyday usability. Emissions com…
All production years 2019–2024 meet Euro 6d emissions standards .
The Volkswagen DAFA is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engineered for high-performance hatchbacks and sedans (2019–2024). It combines direct injection (TSI) with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range torque and high-rev responsiveness. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances sporty performance with stringent emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min, RON 98 recommended) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
Power output | 180 kW (245 PS) @ 5,000–6,500 rpm | |
Torque | 370 Nm @ 1,600–5,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDEV6 direct injection (350 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual-circuit layout | |
Turbocharger | Twin‑scroll IHI IS38 | |
Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 162 kg |
The Volkswagen DAFA was used across Volkswagen Group's MQB Evo platform with transverse mounting and shared with Audi and Cupra. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Golf R Mk8, revised cooling in the Audi S3 8Y, and exhaust routing changes in the Cupra León—creating minor service part differences. 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 DAFA is robust when maintained properly. Early units (2019–late 2022) have a known HPFP/cam wear issue, but post-2022 revisions resolved this. With correct oil (VW 504 00/507 00 0W‑20), timely servicing, and quality fuel, it can exceed 200,000 km without major issues.
Top issues include HPFP cam lobe wear (early builds), GPF saturation from short trips, turbo wastegate rattle, and PCV diaphragm rupture in the valve cover. All are documented in VW service bulletins and repairable with OEM parts.
The DAFA powered the Mk8 Golf R (2020–2024), Audi S3 (8Y), Cupra León, and Škoda Octavia vRS Mk4. All are transverse MQB Evo-platform vehicles sharing the 245 PS 2.0 TSI configuration under Euro 6d compliance.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the DAFA 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 R Mk8, expect ~9.5 L/100km (city), ~6.5 L/100km (highway), or ~30 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically yields 27–32 mpg UK. Economy drops significantly with aggressive driving due to turbo boost and AWD system losses.
Yes. The DAFA is an interference design. If the timing chain fails (rare but possible), piston-to-valve contact will cause catastrophic engine damage. However, the chain is generally durable with proper oil maintenance.
Volkswagen specifies 0W‑20 synthetic oil meeting VW 504 00 or 507 00 standards. Never use 5W‑40 or non-approved oils, as they lack the low-viscosity properties needed for HPFP cam lobe protection and GPF compatibility.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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