The Volkswagen CDLG is a 1,395 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), a single-scroll turbocharger, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and delivers 92 kW (125 PS) with 200 Nm of torque. The engine’s compact displacement and turbocharging enable responsive urban performance while maintaining competitive fuel economy for its class.
Fitted to models such as the Polo, Fabia, Ibiza, and Ameo, the CDLG was engineered for entry-level buyers seeking modern efficiency and low CO₂ emissions. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise direct injection, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards depending on production year.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to the absence of port fuel injection, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2016‑04. This issue stems from crankcase ventilation oil vapour entering the intake tract, leading to reduced airflow and rough running over time. Volkswagen recommends periodic intake cleaning and adherence to 15,000 km service intervals to mitigate deposit accumulation.
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2019 models comply with Euro 6 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7123).
The Volkswagen CDLG is a 1,395 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2012–2019). It combines direct injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver brisk low‑rpm response and urban fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards, it balances entry-level performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 92 kW (125 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,400–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch HDEV5, up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2019) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The Honeywell turbo provides immediate torque from low revs, ideal for city driving, but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 502 00/504 00 spec oil to prevent sludge and turbo bearing wear. The absence of port injection leads to carbon accumulation on intake valves; periodic walnut blasting or intake cleaning is recommended after 60,000 km. Use of 95 RON minimum petrol is required; 98 RON improves knock resistance under load. EGR and PCV systems must remain functional to avoid misfires and excessive deposits.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 (5W-40) specification (Volkswagen SIB 2016‑04). Not interchangeable with 507 00.
Emissions: Euro 5 applies to 2012–2014 builds; Euro 6 compliance for 2015–2019 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7123).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Power output verified on dyno per Volkswagen PT‑2020.
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 04E‑9123, 04E‑9145, 04E‑9160, SIB 2016‑04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7123)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Volkswagen CDLG was used across Volkswagen's Polo, Ameo, and shared within the VAG group for Škoda and SEAT. This engine received platform-specific calibrations—revised cooling ducts in the Ameo for tropical climates and modified intake manifolds in the Fabia—and from 2015 Euro 6 variants adopted updated ECU maps and GPF-ready exhaust manifolds, creating minor software interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Škoda’s Fabia III and SEAT’s Ibiza to use identical engine hardware. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Volkswagen TIS 04E‑9010). The 4th and 5th characters of the engine code block (e.g., 'CDLG') confirm identity. CDLG uses a black plastic cam cover with '1.4 TSI' embossing. Differentiate from CZDA/CZDB: CDLG has a Honeywell turbo with external wastegate actuator and Bosch MED17.5.25 ECU. Service parts require verification—fuel rails and injectors for CDLG are high-pressure direct-only and not interchangeable with combined port/direct injection variants.
The CDLG's primary reliability risk is carbon buildup on intake valves due to its direct-injection-only design, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Volkswagen internal data cited in SIB 2016‑04 noted reduced airflow and misfires in high-mileage examples, while UK DVSA records show increased emissions-related MOT failures after 80,000 km in short-trip vehicles. Extended oil intervals and low-quality fuel accelerate turbo bearing wear and timing chain tensioner degradation, making oil specification and service discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2014–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CDLG.
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