The Volkswagen CLPA is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing, delivering 162 kW (220 PS) and 350 Nm of torque. The integrated exhaust manifold enables faster warm‑up and reduced emissions.
Fitted to performance‑oriented models such as the Golf R (Mk7), Audi S3 (8V), and Škoda Octavia vRS, the CLPA was engineered for responsive power delivery, high‑rev refinement, and daily usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a combination of three‑way catalytic converter, precise lambda control, and particulate filter (Otto Particulate Filter – OPF), meeting Euro 6 standards from launch.
One documented concern is high‑pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, noted in Volkswagen Technical Service Bulletin 2016‑08. This issue stems from marginal lubricity in certain fuel batches interacting with the cam‑driven HPFP plunger. From 2017, revised pump internals and updated calibration reduced incidence across the MQB platform.
All CLPA production years (2012–2019) meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen CLPA is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engineered for compact performance hatchbacks and sedans (2012–2019). It combines direct injection (TSI) with a BorgWarner turbocharger featuring an integrated exhaust manifold to deliver responsive power and low-end torque. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards from launch, it balances track capability with everyday drivability and efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (ULP 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 162 kW (220 PS) @ 5,100–6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1,700–5,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high-pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual-circuit thermal management | |
| Turbocharger | BorgWarner IS12 (integrated exhaust manifold) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC (maintenance-free design) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The CLPA delivers strong mid-range torque and high-rev responsiveness, ideal for spirited driving. However, it requires strict adherence to 15,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals using VW 504 00/507 00 oil to protect the turbocharger bearings and timing chain. The Otto Particulate Filter (OPF) mandates occasional highway driving to enable passive regeneration. High-pressure fuel pump longevity depends on consistent use of high-quality ULSP (EN 228) fuel. Pre-2017 engines should be monitored for HPFP wear per TSB 2016‑08; updated pumps are recommended during service.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 (5W-30) specification (VW TIS Doc. 06K-900-500). Not interchangeable with older 502/505 oils.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all CLPA models (2012–2019) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). OPF-equipped from launch.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Full 220 PS output requires 95 RON minimum fuel (VW Group PT-2018).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 06K-100-101, 06K-102-205, TSB 2016‑08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Volkswagen CLPA was used across Volkswagen's MQB platform with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Golf R and modified cooling in the Audi S3—and from 2017 the facelifted Golf Mk7.5 retained the same engine code but with updated emissions calibration, maintaining interchangeability. Partnerships enabled use in Škoda and SEAT performance 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 06K-100-010). The 4th–6th characters of the engine code on the VIN plate (e.g., “CLPA”) confirm identity. Visual cues: black plastic cam cover with “TSI” logo; integrated exhaust manifold visible at turbo inlet. Differentiate from CAHA/CZDA: CLPA uses BorgWarner IS12 turbo with water-cooled center housing and OPF from 2014. HPFP part number 06K 127 025 F (pre-2017) vs. 06K 127 025 G (post-TSB update).
The CLPA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles using marginal-quality fuel. Volkswagen internal field data (2016) indicated a measurable increase in HPFP-related DTCs before 80,000 km in pre-TSB units, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related failures due to robust OPF calibration. Consistent use of high-quality fuel and timely HPFP updates make long-term reliability strong.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2014–2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CLPA.
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