The Volkswagen CKTB is a 1,498 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing. In standard form it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, with responsive low‑end delivery enabled by its low‑inertia turbocharger.
Fitted to models such as the Mk7 Golf, Mk7.5 Golf, T — Roc, and Audi A3 (8V), the CKTB was engineered for compact efficiency with…
Production years 2015–2017 meet Euro 6b standards; 2018–2020 models meet Euro 6d-TEMP compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6021).
The Volkswagen CKTB is a 1,498 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and SUVs (2015–2020). It combines direct injection with a low-inertia turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 6b and Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards, it balances everyday usability with reduced emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min, RON 98 recommended) | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 85.9 mm | |
Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 5,000–6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6b (2015–2017); Euro 6d-TEMP (2018–2020) | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit layout | |
Turbocharger | Low-inertia IHI VT16 | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 112 kg |
The Volkswagen CKTB was used across Volkswagen's Mk7 and Mk7.5 platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the T-Roc and updated cooling in the Golf—and from 2018 the facelifted Golf adopted minor ECU and emissions updates, creating minor calibration limits. Partnerships allowed Audi and SEAT to use variants of this engine in compact models. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CKTB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump cam follower wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles using RON 95 fuel or extended oil intervals. Volkswagen internal data from 2018 indicated increased HPFP-related warranty claims for pre-2018 builds, while UK DVSA MOT records show secondary issues related to GPF clogging in low-mileage urban use. Consistent use of premium fuel and correct oil specification is critical to mitigate wear.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2015–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2023). 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 CKTB offers good efficiency and responsive torque, but early units (2015–2017) are prone to HPFP cam follower wear if RON 95 fuel or incorrect oil is used. Post-2018 revisions improved durability. Regular oil changes with VW 502 00/504 00 spec and use of RON 98 fuel significantly enhance longevity.
Top issues include HPFP cam follower wear, GPF clogging in low-mileage use, coolant housing leaks, and intake valve carbon buildup. These are documented in VW service bulletins and supported by DVSA MOT data on emissions-related failures.
The CKTB powered the Golf (Mk7/Mk7.5, 2015–2020), T-Roc (2017–2020), and was shared with Audi A3 (8V), SEAT León, and Škoda Octavia. All are EA211 evo 1.5 TSI variants rated at 150 PS.
Yes. The CKTB responds well to ECU remapping, with stage 1 typically yielding 180–190 PS. Stock internals support up to ~210 PS with supporting mods (intercooler, exhaust). However, HPFP and cam follower upgrades are recommended beyond stage 1 to ensure reliability.
In a Golf 1.5 TSI, expect ~6.0 L/100km (47 mpg UK) combined under normal driving. Aggressive use can exceed 8.5 L/100km, while steady motorway cruising may drop to ~5.0 L/100km. Real-world figures average 42–50 mpg UK depending on driving style and conditions.
Yes. The CKTB is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails (rare but possible), piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the chain is designed as lifetime and rarely fails if oil is maintained.
Volkswagen specifies 5W‑40 synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 or 504 00 standards. This is critical for cam follower and HPFP protection. Oil changes every 10,000–15,000 km (or annually) are recommended, especially with spirited driving.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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