The Volkswagen CSLA is a 1,395 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 92 kW (125 PS) and 200 Nm of torque. The combination of turbocharging and direct injection enables strong low‑rpm torque for responsive everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Mk7 Golf, Polo, and T-Cross, the CSLA was engineered for drivers seeking fuel efficiency without sacrificing urban responsiveness. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and secondary air injection, allowing Euro 6 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2015‑12. This issue stems from marginal lubrication under frequent short‑trip driving and extended oil change intervals. From 2016, revised tensioner materials and updated chain guides were introduced to improve durability.
All production years 2012–2019 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).
The Volkswagen CSLA is a 1,395 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and SUVs (2012–2019). It combines direct fuel injection (TSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and high specific output. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances urban agility with motorway refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min, RON 98 recommended) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 92 kW (125 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,400–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high-pressure direct injection (up to 110 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit layout | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbocharger (BorgWarner or Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The turbocharged TSI layout provides brisk low-RPM response ideal for city driving but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil changes using VW 502 00 / 505 00 oil to protect the timing chain and turbo bearings. The high-pressure fuel pump relies on fuel for lubrication; low-sulfur or ethanol-blended fuels can accelerate wear. Pre-2016 timing chain tensioners are prone to wear under short-trip conditions; post-2016 units feature reinforced polymer guides per VW SIB 2015‑12. Intercooler condensation may cause carbon buildup in the intake; periodic inspection is recommended.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner’s Manual). Not compatible with Longlife‑04.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2012–2019 CSLA engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires RON 98 fuel (Volkswagen TSI Engine Technical Bulletin 2013‑05).
Volkswagen Technical Information System: Docs 04E‑901, SIB 2015‑12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8912)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standard
The Volkswagen CSLA was used across Volkswagen's Mk5/Mk7 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Škoda and SEAT under MQB architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised cooling ducts in the T-Cross and modified intake routing in the Polo Mk6—and from 2016 the Golf Mk7 received updated timing components, creating minor 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 (Volkswagen ETKA 04E‑901). The 4th–6th digits of the engine serial number identify the variant (e.g., 'CSLA'). Visual cue: black plastic intake manifold with red 'TSI' badge. Critical differentiation from CZDA/CZEA: CSLA uses a single-scroll turbo with specific actuator geometry and timing chain with flat tensioner (pre-2016) or reinforced guide (post-2016). Timing chain kit part number 04E 109 479 B/C indicates CSLA application. Pre-2016 tensioners differ from post-2016 types (VW SIB 2015‑12).
The CSLA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent short trips or with inconsistent service history. Volkswagen internal data (2017) indicated timing chain replacement rates exceeding 6% in pre-2016 builds before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show negligible emissions-related failures due to robust catalytic design. Oil specification and change intervals make preventive maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2012–2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CSLA.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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