The Volkswagen CLLA is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing. In standard form it delivers 147 kW (200 PS) and 280 Nm of torque, with strong mid‑range response for responsive everyday driving.
Fitted to models such as the Golf Mk6 GTI, Scirocco, and Eos, the CLLA was engineered for sporty performance without sacrificing daily us…
All production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen CLLA is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact performance models (2008–2015). It combines gasoline direct injection with a single turbocharger to deliver responsive mid‑range torque and brisk acceleration. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances sporty character with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 280 Nm @ 1,700–5,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 150 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single K04 turbo (Garrett) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted; maintenance‑free design) | |
Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑30 or 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 143 kg |
The Volkswagen CLLA was used across Volkswagen's Golf Mk6, Scirocco Mk3, and Eos platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Scirocco and revised cooling ducting in the Golf GTI—and from 2013 the Golf Mk7 transitioned to the EA888 Gen 3, creating clear interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CLLA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequently serviced vehicles. Volkswagen internal field data from 2012 indicated a notable rate of HPFP replacement before 100,000 km in pre-2012 units, while UK DVSA MOT records show low emissions-related failures due to robust three-way catalyst design. Extended oil intervals and low-quality fuel increase cam follower wear, making timely HPFP upgrades critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2010–2015) 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 CLLA offers strong performance and generally good reliability, but early units (2008–2012) are prone to HPFP failure. Post-2012 revisions significantly improved fuel system durability. With regular oil changes using VW 502 00/504 00 oil and timely HPFP upgrades, well-maintained examples can exceed 200,000 km without major issues.
Key issues include high-pressure fuel pump failure (pre-2012), turbo oil seal leaks, combustion chamber carbon buildup, and plastic coolant flange leaks. These are documented in Volkswagen service bulletins, particularly STB 2011‑07 for HPFP concerns. Most are manageable with proactive maintenance.
The CLLA powered the Golf Mk6 GTI (2009–2013), Scirocco Mk3 2.0 TSI (2008–2017), and Eos 2.0 TSI (2009–2015). It was exclusive to Volkswagen and not shared with SEAT, Škoda, or Audi during this generation. All applications meet Euro 5 emissions standards.
Yes. The CLLA responds well to ECU remapping, typically gaining +30–50 kW on stage 1 with stock internals. Supporting upgrades (intercooler, downpipe, clutch) allow safe outputs beyond 220 kW. However, HPFP reliability should be confirmed before tuning, especially on pre-2012 engines.
Real-world consumption averages 8.5–9.5 L/100km (30–33 mpg UK) in mixed driving for the Golf GTI. Highway cruising can achieve ~6.8 L/100km (42 mpg UK), while aggressive urban use may exceed 11 L/100km. Figures assume 95 RON fuel and standard driving conditions.
Yes. The CLLA is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails (rare but possible under extreme oil starvation), piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the front-mounted chain is robust and designed for the engine’s lifetime with proper oil maintenance.
Volkswagen specifies synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 or 504 00 standards (typically 5W‑30 or 5W‑40). This low-ash formulation protects turbo bearings and the timing chain. Oil changes every 15,000 km or annually are essential to prevent HPFP and turbo wear.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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