The Volkswagen CLHA is a 1,498 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2019 and 2024. 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 and cylinder deactivation (ACT) system.
Fitted to models such as the Mk8 Golf, T-Roc, T-Cross, and Audi A3 (8Y), the CLHA was engineered for compact efficiency with refined urban drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), and active cylinder management, meeting Euro 6d full standards across all markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam follower, highlighted in Volkswagen Group Service Bulletin 2020‑09. This issue is linked to marginal lubrication under high-load conditions or extended oil change intervals. From 2021, revised cam follower materials and surface treatments were introduced to improve durability.
All production years (2019–2024) meet Euro 6d full compliance across markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6215).
The Volkswagen CLHA is a 1,498 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and SUVs (2019–2024). It combines direct injection with a low-inertia turbocharger and active cylinder management to deliver responsive low-end torque and reduced emissions. Designed to meet Euro 6d full emissions standards, it balances urban efficiency with everyday drivability.
| 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 HDP6 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d full | |
| 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 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 0W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The compact three-cylinder layout with active cylinder management (ACT) delivers strong low-RPM torque and improved fuel economy but requires strict adherence to oil change intervals to prevent HPFP cam follower wear. VW 504 00/507 00 (0W‑20) oil is critical due to its low viscosity and high shear stability. RON 98 fuel is recommended to reduce knock risk under boost. The integrated GPF requires periodic high-load driving to avoid clogging; short urban trips without highway use may trigger regeneration warnings. Post-2021 engines feature improved cam follower materials per VW SIB 2020‑09.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 (0W‑20) specification (VW SIB 2020‑09). Not interchangeable with 5W‑40 oils.
Emissions: Euro 6d full certification applies to all CLHA engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6215). Verified via RDE testing.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Full 110 kW output requires RON 98 fuel (VW TIS Doc. 04E‑4015).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 04E‑1012, 04E‑2025, 04E‑3010, SIB 2020‑09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6215)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Volkswagen CLHA was used across Volkswagen's Mk8 platform 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 2021 the facelifted T-Cross 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.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil filter housing (VW TIS 04E‑1020). The 7th VIN digit for Golf is 'G' and for T-Roc is 'R'; engine code 'CLHA' appears in the 4th–7th characters of the engine number. Visual cues: black valve cover with 'TSI' logo, compact three-cylinder layout, GPF housing integrated into exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from DHTA: CLHA uses Bosch HDP6 HPFP and IHI VT16 turbo with ACT; DHTA lacks cylinder deactivation. Cam follower parts require production date verification—pre-2021 units use earlier materials (VW SIB 2020‑09).
The CLHA'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 2021 indicated increased HPFP-related warranty claims for pre-2021 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 (2019–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CLHA.
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