The Volkswagen ANY – Petrol designation refers to a placeholder for various petrol engine families (e.g., EA211, EA888) used across the brand's global lineup. Specific displacement, layout, and technologies vary significantly by model and year, ranging from efficient turbocharged three-cylinders to performance-oriented four-cylinders featuring direct injection and variable valve timing.
Fitted to diverse platforms like the Polo, Golf, Tiguan, and Passat, these engines are engineered for a spectrum of driving characters, from urban economy to spirited performance. Emissions compliance is achieved through technologies like gasoline particulate filters (GPF) and precise engine management, meeting standards from Euro 5 to Euro 6d depending on the specific engine and production date.
A common, well-documented concern across several Volkswagen petrol engine families is carbon buildup on intake valves, particularly in direct-injection (TSI/TFSI) units. This issue, addressed in various service campaigns, stems from the fuel injection bypassing the intake ports, allowing oil vapours from the crankcase ventilation system to deposit carbon over time.

Volkswagen
Specific emissions compliance (Euro 5, 6, 6d) varies by exact engine code, model, and production date. Consult the vehicle's V5C logbook or official Volkswagen documentation for precise certification (VCA UK Type Approval #...).
The Volkswagen ANY – Petrol placeholder encompasses numerous engine families (e.g., EA211, EA888) for compact to mid-size vehicles (various years). It combines turbocharging with direct injection to deliver a balance of efficiency and performance. Designed to meet evolving emissions standards (Euro 5 to Euro 6d), specific configurations vary widely by application.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | Varies (e.g., 999 cc, 1,395 cc, 1,984 cc) | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Varies (e.g., Inline-3, Inline-4, DOHC) | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (most common) | |
| Bore × stroke | Varies by specific engine | |
| Power output | Varies widely (e.g., 66 kW to 228 kW / 90 PS to 310 PS) | |
| Torque | Varies widely (e.g., 160 Nm to 400 Nm) | |
| Fuel system | Direct Injection (TSI/TFSI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5, Euro 6, Euro 6d (depends on engine & year) | |
| Compression ratio | Varies (e.g., 10.0:1, 11.7:1) | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo (IHI, BorgWarner, etc.) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (most common) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 / 508 00 (spec varies) | |
| Dry weight | Not available (varies significantly) |
The turbocharged direct injection provides strong, responsive power but is susceptible to intake valve carbon buildup, requiring periodic cleaning (every 60,000–80,000 km) for optimal performance. Using the correct VW-specification oil (e.g., 504 00, 508 00) is critical for turbo and emissions system longevity. High-quality fuel helps minimize injector fouling. Some early EA888 Gen 3 engines had water pump/thermostat housing issues addressed under warranty.
Oil Specs: Requires specific VW oil norms (502 00, 504 00, or 508 00) depending on engine and model year (Volkswagen Owner's Manual).
Emissions: Euro standard certification is specific to each engine variant and model year (VCA Type Approval Database).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 or ISO 1585 standards. Peak figures require premium fuel (RON 95/98) (Volkswagen Group PT-2021).
Volkswagen Group ETKA Parts Catalogue
Volkswagen Technical Service Information Portal
Volkswagen Owner's Manual (Model Specific)
The Volkswagen ANY – Petrol engines power a vast range of Volkswagen models with both transverse and longitudinal mounting. This includes Golf, Polo, Tiguan, Passat, T-Roc, and Arteon. Engines received platform-specific ECU calibrations and ancillary adaptations. All variations are documented in official Volkswagen technical resources.
Locate the specific engine code on a sticker in the service book and stamped on the engine block (often near the cylinder head or on the flat surface by the oil filter). The 8th digit of the VIN often indicates engine displacement/family. Visually, EA211 engines typically have the exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head, while EA888 engines have a separate exhaust manifold. Always verify the exact engine code for parts and service, as specifications vary greatly even within the same model.
The primary reliability concern for many Volkswagen direct-injection petrol engines is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in vehicles driven primarily on short trips. Internal service data indicates this is a widespread maintenance item, while DVSA records show associated MOT failures for emissions or performance. Regular highway driving and adherence to service schedules help mitigate this issue.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2015-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN ANY.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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
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