The Volkswagen AZZ is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2008. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake cam. This 20-valve unit, part of the EA113 family, delivered 150 kW (204 PS) and 280 Nm of torque, providing strong mid-range pull for its era.
Fitted primarily to the B6 Passat and Mk5 Golf R32, the AZZ was engineered for spirited performance and refined highway cruising. Drivers could expect responsive acceleration paired with a characteristic induction sound. Emissions compliance was managed through secondary air injection and catalytic converters, meeting Euro 4 standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam follower, which can lead to pump failure and engine damage. This issue, addressed in Volkswagen's Technical Service Bulletin 2028060, is linked to insufficient lubrication under high load. Revised cam followers and strict oil change adherence were the prescribed mitigation.

Volkswagen
Production years 2003–2008 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen AZZ is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance sedans and hatchbacks (2003-2008). It combines DOHC 20-valve architecture with variable intake timing to deliver responsive power and a broad torque curve. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it offers a blend of performance and relative efficiency for its class.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 150 kW (204 PS) @ 5,100 rpm | |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 2,200–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MED 9.1, direct injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | KKK K03 turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (intake cam), belt-driven (exhaust cam) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The turbocharged induction provides strong, accessible power but demands vigilant maintenance to ensure longevity. The high-pressure fuel pump cam follower requires inspection every 60,000 km to prevent catastrophic failure, as per TSB 2028060. Using only VW 502 00/504 00 specification oil is critical for protecting the turbocharger and variable valve timing components. The timing belt (driving the exhaust cam and ancillaries) must be replaced at 120,000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first. Ignoring the cam follower or timing belt can result in complete engine failure.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). ACEA A3/B4 is the minimum equivalent standard.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all AZZ engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across model applications (Volkswagen SSP 324).
Volkswagen Service Training: SSP 324 (EA113 1.8T/2.0T Engines)
Volkswagen Technical Service Bulletin: TSB 2028060
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Volkswagen AZZ was used across Volkswagen's B6 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Passat and a unique intake manifold for the Golf R32. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (Volkswagen SSP 324). The 8th digit of the VIN for North American R32 models is 'Z', indicating the 3.2L VR6, while the AZZ engine code is physically stamped on the block. The AZZ can be visually identified by its black plastic intake manifold and the "2.0 TFSI" badge on the engine cover. Critical differentiation from other 2.0T engines: The AZZ uses a K03 turbo and has a specific ECU part number. Service parts, particularly the cam follower, are specific to the AZZ and early BLG engines; using incorrect parts can lead to rapid failure.
The AZZ's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure due to cam follower wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles with missed inspections or incorrect oil. Volkswagen TSB 2028060 documents this as a critical service item, while owner reports frequently cite engine replacement costs exceeding £3,000. Aggressive driving and extended oil change intervals dramatically increase the risk, making proactive inspection and correct lubrication critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2005-2010) and aggregated owner repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN AZZ.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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