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 Scirocco and early Mk7 Golf, the CASA engine was designed for drivers seeking a blend of peppy performance and compact efficiency. Emissions compliance was managed through a three‑way catalytic converter and electronic engine management, meeting Euro 5 standards for its entire production run.
One documented concern involves potential high‑pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, noted in Volkswagen Group Service Technical Information Bulletin 2039846/1. This issue, often linked to fuel quality or extended service intervals, can cause sudden power loss or no‑start conditions. Volkswagen later issued updated pump designs and revised maintenance schedules to address the concern.
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 twin-scroll turbo provides immediate throttle response but demands high-quality fuel (95 RON minimum) to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves and injector clogging. Adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil changes using VW 504 00 spec oil is critical for turbo and chain longevity. The timing chain is designed as maintenance-free but can stretch if oil changes are neglected, leading to rattling or timing errors. The high-pressure fuel pump is a known wear item; using poor-quality fuel accelerates failure. Regular carbon cleaning of the intake system is recommended for high-mileage engines.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). 504 00 is preferred for extended intervals.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all CASA production years (2008-2015) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output requires 95 RON fuel (Volkswagen SSP 424).
Volkswagen Self-Study Programme (SSP): 424, 823
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
Volkswagen ETKA Parts Catalogue
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.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, just below the exhaust manifold (Volkswagen SSP 424). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code for Volkswagen Group vehicles. The CASA engine can be visually identified by its plastic intake manifold with 'TSI' branding and the twin-scroll turbocharger housing. Critical differentiation from the CAVE engine: CASA produces 90kW, while CAVE produces 125kW; ECU part numbers and boost pressure settings differ significantly. Always verify the engine code stamp before ordering parts.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CASA.
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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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