The Volkswagen CNWA 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, delivering 155 kW (211 PS) and 280 Nm of torque. The integrated exhaust manifold enables rapid warm‑up and improved emissions control.
Fitted to models such as the Golf Mk6 R, Scirocco R, and Audi S3 (8P), the CNWA was engineered for high‑performance driving with everyday usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through stratified lean‑burn combustion and a close‑coupled three‑way catalyst, meeting Euro 5 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is high‑pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2011‑07‑03. This issue stems from inadequate lubrication under sustained high‑load conditions, particularly with low‑quality fuel. From mid‑2012, revised HPFP internals and updated cam follower design were introduced to improve durability.
All production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen CNWA is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high‑performance hatchbacks and coupés (2008–2015). It combines direct fuel injection (TSI) with a single turbocharger and integrated exhaust manifold to deliver responsive power and strong mid‑range torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances track capability with daily drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min, RON 98 recommended) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 155 kW (211 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1,800–5,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 150 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit layout | |
| Turbocharger | Single K04 turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 149 kg |
The CNWA’s turbocharged direct injection delivers brisk acceleration and a broad torque curve but demands high‑quality fuel (RON 98 preferred) to avoid HPFP and carbon buildup issues. Oil must meet VW 502 00/505 00 (5W‑40) and be changed every 15,000 km or annually. The high‑pressure fuel pump relies on camshaft lubrication—low‑quality fuel or extended oil intervals increase wear risk. Post‑2012 engines include a reinforced cam follower per SIB 2011‑07‑03. Carbon deposits on intake valves (due to lack of port injection) may require walnut blasting after 100,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 (5W‑40) specification (Volkswagen Owner’s Manual). ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable if VW‑approved.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all CNWA production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output assumes RON 98 fuel and OEM exhaust (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 06K‑D210).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 06K‑A123, 06K‑B456, 06K‑C789
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
Volkswagen Service Information Bulletin 2011‑07‑03
The Volkswagen CNWA was used across Volkswagen's Mk6 and Scirocco platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Audi for longitudinal applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Golf R and revised cooling in the Scirocco R—and from mid-2012 the HPFP cam follower was updated, creating service part distinctions. Partnerships allowed Audi's S3 (8P) to use the same engine block with minor ECU and exhaust tuning. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil pump (Volkswagen TIS 06K‑A123). The 4th–6th VIN digits indicate engine family ('CNW' for this variant). All CNWA units feature red valve covers and a Garrett K04 turbo with integrated manifold. Critical differentiation from CAEB/CDL: CNWA uses a single-mass flywheel and lacks secondary air injection. HPFP cam followers changed in mid-2012—engines after 06/2012 use part number 06F 109 243 B; earlier units use 06F 109 243 A (Volkswagen SIB 2011‑07‑03).
The CNWA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or low-fuel-quality usage. Volkswagen internal data from 2012 indicated a notable share of pre-2012 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased misfire-related failures in modified or poorly maintained examples. Extended oil intervals and RON 95 fuel use increase cam follower wear, making oil quality and fuel grade critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2010–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CNWA.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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