The Volkswagen CT is a 1,395 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing. In standard form it delivered 92 kW (125 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, with strong low‑rpm responsiveness for urban and motorway driving.
Fitted to models such as the Mk7 Golf, Mk2 Touran, and Mk5 Polo, including the 1.4 TSI variants, the CT was engineered for balanced performance and fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and precise engine management, meeting Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards depending on model year and market.
One documented concern is excessive carbon buildup on intake valves due to the absence of port fuel injection, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2015‑07. This can lead to rough idling and reduced power. From mid‑2016, revised engine control software and updated PCV routing were introduced to mitigate oil ingestion.
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen CT is a 1,395 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engineered for compact and MPV models (2012–2018). It combines direct fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver responsive low‑end torque and smooth high‑rpm power. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances performance with urban efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 92 kW (125 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed‑geometry turbo (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted; low‑wear design) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑30 or 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The direct-injection TSI layout provides brisk throttle response but is prone to intake valve coking due to lack of fuel-wash effect. Regular use of quality fuel and periodic induction cleaning are recommended. VW 502 00/504 00 oil is essential to protect turbo bearings and maintain chain tensioner function. Extended oil change intervals beyond 15,000 km may accelerate carbon buildup and turbo wear. Post-2016 models benefit from updated crankcase ventilation routing per SIB 2015‑07 to reduce oil mist ingestion.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen SIB 2015‑07). ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable if VW-approved.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2012–2014 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 6 compliance for 2015–2018 models varies by trim and market.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output assumes RON 95 fuel quality (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 01‑2013‑CT).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 01‑2013‑CT, SIB 2015‑07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Volkswagen CT was used across Volkswagen's Mk7/Mk2 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised cooling ducts in the Golf and modified intake manifolds in the Touran—and from 2016 the facelifted Polo adopted updated engine mounts and ECU calibrations, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front cam cover near the timing chain cover (Volkswagen TIS 01‑2013‑CT). The 4th and 5th digits of the engine number indicate displacement and aspiration ('CT' = 1.4L TSI). Pre-2016 models use black plastic cam covers with round PCV hoses; post-2016 units feature revised routing with reinforced elbows. Critical differentiation from EA211 CZDA: CT lacks port injection and uses a single-mass flywheel. Service parts require VIN verification—intake manifolds and PCV kits differ between pre- and post-2016 builds (Volkswagen SIB 2015‑07).
The CT's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup due to direct-only injection, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Volkswagen internal quality data from 2016 noted increased service visits for rough idle in pre-2016 builds, while UK DVSA MOT records show higher emissions-related failures in high-mileage examples. Frequent cold starts and extended oil intervals accelerate deposit formation, making induction cleaning and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2014–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CT.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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