The Volkswagen AGL is a 2,771 cc, VR6 petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2000. It features a unique narrow-angle (15°) V6 configuration with a single cylinder head, dual overhead camshafts, and multi‑point fuel injection. This compact design delivered 125 kW (170 PS) and 245 Nm of torque, offering a blend of smooth power delivery and space efficiency for transverse engine bays.
Fitted primarily to the Volkswagen Passat B5 (3B) and Corrado (53I), the AGL was engineered for refined, high-speed cruising and responsive acceleration. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic fuel injection and a three‑way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 2 standards across its production run.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the water pump, which is driven by the timing belt and located internally. This issue, addressed in Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletin 2002‑15, can lead to catastrophic engine overheating if the pump seizes or leaks. The pump was revised in later VR6 variants.
Volkswagen
Production years 1996–2000 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
The Volkswagen AGL is a 2,771 cc VR6 petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and coupes (1996-2000). It combines a unique 15° narrow-angle V6 layout with DOHC and multi-point injection to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritises refinement and performance within a compact package.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,771 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | VR6, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 90.3 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 245 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Toothed belt | |
| Oil type | VW 501 01 / 502 00 (SAE 10W-40 or 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 152 kg |
The VR6 layout provides smooth, turbine-like power delivery but requires strict adherence to 80,000 km timing belt replacement intervals, which also includes replacing the integrated water pump to prevent catastrophic failure. Use of VW 501 01/502 00 specification oil ensures optimal engine protection. The ignition system uses a distributorless coil-on-plug design; coils should be inspected for cracks at 100,000 km. The narrow engine bay can make spark plug access challenging on some models.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 501 01 or 502 00 specification oil (Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2002-15). ACEA A3 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all AGL engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is net power at the flywheel (Volkswagen Factory Specifications 1998).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (ETKA): Docs 07A 103 101, 07A 121 101
Volkswagen Service Manuals (VR6)
Volkswagen Technical Bulletins (TB-96-03, STB 2002-15)
The Volkswagen AGL was used across Volkswagen's Passat B5 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts for the Corrado variant-and no significant facelift revisions occurred during its production run, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the rear of the cylinder block, near the transmission flange (Volkswagen Service Manual VR6). The code "AGL" is clearly visible. Visual identification: Features a distinctive single, wide valve cover spanning both cylinder banks and a centrally mounted intake manifold. Differentiates from the ABV engine by its 125 kW power output and specific ECU software. All AGL engines share the same core architecture; parts compatibility is generally excellent across applications.
The AGL's primary reliability risk is failure of the internally mounted water pump, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal Volkswagen Group service data noted this as a critical failure point. Neglecting to replace the pump during the timing belt service leads to almost certain engine damage, making proactive replacement mandatory.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (1996-2000) and historical service records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN AGL.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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