The Volkswagen CASA is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), a single twin‑scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This powertrain, part of the EA111 family, was engineered for responsiveness, delivering up to 90 kW (122 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, with turbocharging providing strong low‑rpm pull for urban agility.
Fitted primarily to the Mk5 and Mk6 Polo, as well as the…
Production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen CASA is a 1,390 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for superminis and compact hatches (2008-2015). It combines gasoline direct injection (TSI) with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive acceleration and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances sporty performance with everyday fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 75.6 mm | |
Power output | 90 kW (122 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct Injection (TSI), Bosch MED 17.5 ECU | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single twin‑scroll (IHI or BorgWarner) | |
Timing system | Chain‑driven (maintenance‑free design) | |
Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑30 or 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | Approx. 107 kg |
The Volkswagen CASA was used across Volkswagen's Polo and Golf platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Scirocco for sportier dynamics-and shared its core architecture with the Seat Ibiza and Škoda Fabia. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CASA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using lower-grade fuel or exceeding service intervals. Internal Volkswagen data indicated a notable failure rate before 100,000 km under these conditions, while timing chain tensioner wear, though less common than in earlier EA111 engines, can still occur with poor maintenance. Fuel quality and strict adherence to oil change schedules are critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2010-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). 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 CASA engine is generally robust if maintained correctly. Its main weakness is the high-pressure fuel pump, which can fail prematurely with poor fuel or missed services. The timing chain is designed to last the engine's life but can rattle if oil changes are neglected. With strict adherence to service schedules and good fuel, it can be very reliable.
The most frequent issues are high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, carbon buildup on intake valves causing running problems, and occasional timing chain tensioner rattle. Coolant leaks from the plastic water pump housing are also common on higher-mileage engines. These are well-documented in Volkswagen service bulletins.
The CASA 1.4 TSI (90kW) was primarily used in the Volkswagen Polo (6R, 2009-2014), Golf Mk6 (2009-2013), and Scirocco Mk3 (2008-2015). It was also found in badge-engineered models like the Seat Ibiza (6J) and Škoda Fabia (5J) from the same era.
Yes, the CASA responds well to ECU remapping. A Stage 1 remap can safely increase power to around 140-150 PS and torque to 230-250 Nm, as the turbo and internals have headroom. Further gains require hardware upgrades like a larger intercooler. Always ensure supporting modifications and maintenance are up to date before tuning.
Official combined figures are around 5.5 L/100km (51 mpg UK) for a Polo. Real-world consumption typically ranges from 6.0-7.0 L/100km (40-47 mpg UK) in mixed driving, depending heavily on driving style. Highway cruising can yield figures closer to 5.0 L/100km (56 mpg UK).
Yes. The CASA, like virtually all modern engines, is an interference design. If the timing chain were to fail or jump significantly, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. This underscores the importance of using the correct oil and adhering to service intervals.
Volkswagen mandates oil meeting VW 502 00 or 504 00 specifications, typically SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40. The 504 00 spec is formulated for extended service intervals and is generally preferred. Using the correct, high-quality synthetic oil is non-negotiable for protecting the turbocharger and timing chain.
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