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 see…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The CSLA offers good efficiency and urban responsiveness, but early models (2012–2015) are prone to timing chain tensioner wear. Later revisions (post-2016) improved durability significantly. With RON 98 fuel, correct oil (VW 502 00), and timely chain updates, the engine can be very reliable beyond 200,000 km.
Top issues include timing chain tensioner wear, carbon buildup on intake valves, turbo wastegate rattle, and minor oil leaks. Timing concerns are addressed in VW SIB 2015‑12. Carbon buildup is typical of all direct-injection engines and not unique to VW.
The CSLA powered the Golf Mk7 (2012–2019), Polo Mk6 (2017–2019), T-Cross (2018–2019), plus Škoda Octavia Mk3 and SEAT Leon Mk3. All are 1.4 TSI applications with 125 PS output and Euro 6 compliance.
Yes. The CSLA responds well to ECU remapping, with stage 1 reliably delivering 150–160 PS. Supporting mods (intake, exhaust, intercooler) allow 180+ PS. The stock internals are robust, but timing chain and fuel system upgrades are recommended beyond stage 1 to ensure reliability.
In a Golf Mk7, expect ~6.8 L/100km (city), ~4.5 L/100km (highway), or ~42 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically yields 38–45 mpg UK. Economy improves with conservative driving but drops sharply under spirited use.
Yes. The CSLA is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the chain is generally durable if correct oil is used and changes are performed regularly.
Volkswagen specifies 5W‑40 synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 (petrol) or 505 00 (petrol/diesel) standards. Always use OEM-approved oil and change every 15,000 km or annually to protect the turbo, chain, and fuel system.
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.