The Volkswagen CPLA 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 147 kW (200 PS) and 280 Nm of torque. The integrated exhaust manifold design enables rapid warm‑up and consistent turbo response.
Fitted to models such as the Golf Mk6 GTI, Scirocco, and Eos, the CPLA was engineered for sporty performance with everyday usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through stratified lean‑burn combustion and a close‑coupled three‑way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 5 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is high‑pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2011‑07. This issue stems from marginal lubricity in certain fuel batches interacting with cam‑driven HPFP actuation. From mid‑2012, revised pump internals and updated cam follower materials were introduced per TSB 2012‑14.
All production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen CPLA is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact performance models (2008–2015). It combines direct fuel injection (TSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver strong mid‑range torque and responsive throttle behavior. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances sporty dynamics with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, min. 95 RON) | |
| 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 HDP5 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 150 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Single Garrett GT2260V (twin‑scroll) | |
| 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 twin‑scroll turbo delivers linear torque from low revs, ideal for spirited driving, but demands high‑quality fuel (95 RON minimum) to prevent knock and HPFP wear. Oil changes every 15,000 km or 12 months using VW 502 00/504 00 spec oil are essential to protect the turbo bearing and timing chain. The cam‑driven HPFP is sensitive to fuel lubricity—use only EN 228‑compliant petrol. Post‑2012 engines include updated HPFP cam followers per TSB 2012‑14. Carbon buildup on intake valves (due to direct injection) may require walnut blasting after 100,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (VW TIS Doc. 03C‑9500). ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable if VW‑approved.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all CPLA engines (2008–2015) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 6 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output assumes 95 RON fuel (Volkswagen Group PT‑2013).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 03C‑9102, 03C‑9205, 03C‑9500, TSB 2011‑07, TSB 2012‑14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Volkswagen CPLA was used across Volkswagen's Mk6 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Škoda and SEAT under the VAG group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Eos and revised cooling in the Scirocco-and from 2013 the Golf Mk7 transitioned to the EA888 Gen 3, creating interchange limits. 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 03C‑8001). The 4th and 5th digits of the engine number (e.g., 'CP') confirm the family; 'LA' suffix denotes the 200 PS variant. Visual cue: black plastic intake manifold with red 'TSI' badge. Critical differentiation from CAEB/CDL: CPLA uses a twin‑scroll Garrett turbo (GT2260V) and lacks secondary air injection. HPFP cam follower part number must match production date—pre-06/2012 units require updated follower per TSB 2012‑14.
The CPLA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam follower wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles using low-lubricity fuel or extended service intervals. VW internal field data from 2012 indicated a notable rate of HPFP-related drivability complaints before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show low direct impact but frequent ECU fault codes linked to fuel rail pressure instability. Consistent use of EN 228-compliant fuel and timely HPFP updates make long-term reliability achievable.
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 CPLA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VOLKSWAGEN or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
VOLKSWAGEN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLKSWAGEN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
