The Volkswagen CFLA is a 1,395 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing, delivering 92 kW (125 PS) and 200 Nm of torque. Its compact design and high specific output made it a fuel — efficient yet responsive option in VW’s small — car lineup.
Fitted to models including the Mk7 Golf, Polo, and SEAT Ibiza, the CFLA was engineered for urban agility…
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).
The Volkswagen CFLA is a 1,395 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and superminis (2012–2018). It combines direct injection (TSI) with a small single turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards depending on model year, it balances urban drivability with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min, RON 98 recommended) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 80.0 mm | |
Power output | 92 kW (125 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,400–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high-pressure direct injection (up to 120 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual-circuit layout | |
Turbocharger | Single turbocharger (Honeywell TD025) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 112 kg |
The Volkswagen CFLA was used across Volkswagen's Mk7 and Polo 6R platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific calibrations—revised cooling in the Golf and modified mounts in the Polo—and from late 2015 the timing tensioner was updated, creating minor service part distinctions. Partnerships enabled SEAT and Škoda to use identical long blocks. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CFLA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in frequent short-trip urban use. VW internal data from 2015 indicated a notable share of pre-late-2015 engines developing chain rattle before 60,000 km, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related failures due to robust catalyst design. Cold starts and infrequent oil changes increase chain guide stress, making oil quality and driving pattern critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2012–2018) 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 CFLA is generally reliable when maintained properly, but early models (2012–2015) are prone to timing chain tensioner wear. Post-late-2015 revisions improved durability. Using correct oil (VW 502 00/504 00), avoiding frequent short trips, and timely servicing greatly extend engine life.
Top issues include timing chain tensioner wear, turbo wastegate sticking, PCV valve failure in the cam cover, and high-pressure fuel pump degradation. All are documented in VW service bulletins, especially STB 2014‑12.
The CFLA powered the Golf Mk7 (2012–2018), Polo 6R/6C (2014–2017), and was shared with SEAT Ibiza (2015–2017) and Škoda Fabia III (2015–2018). It was never used in Passat or Tiguan—those used larger EA211 or EA888 engines.
Yes. Stage 1 ECU remaps safely yield +15–20 kW (145–150 PS) on stock hardware. The internals are robust for moderate tuning, but HPFP and clutch upgrades are recommended beyond 150 PS. Turbo limitations cap reliable output near 160 PS without hardware changes.
Real-world consumption is ~7.2 L/100km (city) and ~4.8 L/100km (highway), or ~47 mpg UK combined. Official NEDC figures quoted ~5.2 L/100km. Aggressive driving easily exceeds 8.5 L/100km.
Yes. The CFLA 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 and short-trip driving is minimized.
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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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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