The Volkswagen CFHB is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2015. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing, delivering 155 kW (211 PS) and 280 Nm of torque. Its compact design and high specific output made it a performance — oriented variant within VW’s TSI lineup.
Fitted to models including the Mk6 Golf R, Scirocco R, and Audi S3 (8P), the CFHB was engineered for responsive pe…
All production years 2010–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen CFHB is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance hatchbacks and coupes (2010–2015). It combines direct injection (TSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range response and high specific output. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances track-ready performance with daily drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min, RON 98 recommended) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
Power output | 155 kW (211 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 280 Nm @ 1,800–5,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high-pressure direct injection (up to 120 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual-circuit layout | |
Turbocharger | Single K04 turbocharger (Garrett) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 142 kg |
The Volkswagen CFHB was used across Volkswagen's Mk6 platform with transverse mounting and shared with Audi for longitudinal applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Golf R and revised cooling in the Scirocco R—and from mid-2012 the cam follower was updated, creating minor service part distinctions. Partnerships enabled Audi's S3 (8P) to use an identical long block. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CFHB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump and cam follower wear, with elevated incidence in sustained low-RPM, high-load driving. VW internal data from 2012 indicated a notable share of pre-2012 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related failures due to robust three-way catalyst design. Extended idling and aggressive tuning without supporting mods increase cam lobe stress, making oil quality and driving style critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2010–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The CFHB is robust when maintained properly, but early models (2010–2011) are prone to HPFP and cam follower wear. Post-2012 revisions improved durability. Using correct oil (VW 502 00/504 00), avoiding sustained low-RPM load, and timely servicing greatly extend engine life.
Top issues include high-pressure fuel pump failure due to cam follower wear, turbo oil coking from heat soak, PCV valve rupture in the cam cover, and late-stage carbon buildup. All are documented in VW service bulletins, especially STB 2011‑07.
The CFHB powered the Golf R (Mk6), Scirocco R (2010–2015), and was shared with the Audi S3 (8P, 2010–2012). It was never used in Passat or Tiguan—those used CAEB or other TSI variants.
Yes. Stage 1 ECU remaps safely yield +30–40 kW (250–260 PS) on stock hardware. Stage 2 (with downpipe, intercooler) reaches 280–300 PS. The K04 turbo and internals are strong, but HPFP and clutch upgrades are recommended beyond 260 PS.
Real-world consumption is ~9.5 L/100km (city) and ~6.2 L/100km (highway), or ~30 mpg UK combined. Aggressive driving easily exceeds 11 L/100km. Official WLTP figures don’t apply (pre-WLTP engine), but NEDC quoted ~7.1 L/100km.
Yes. The CFHB is an interference engine. Timing chain failure—though rare—can cause piston-to-valve contact and catastrophic damage. However, the chain is generally durable if oil is changed regularly.
Volkswagen specifies 5W‑40 synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 or 504 00 standards. Never use 507 00 (diesel) oil. Change every 10,000 km or 12 months to protect the turbo, HPFP, and timing components.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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