The Volkswagen CULA is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2015. It features multi‑point fuel injection (MPI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable intake valve timing. In standard form it delivers 59 kW (80 PS) and 132 Nm of torque, optimized for urban efficiency and low running costs.
Fitted to models such as the Mk5 Polo, Mk6 Polo, and Mk1 Up!, the CULA was engineered for entry‑level mobility with minimal maintenance demands. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing Euro 5 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the intake camshaft phaser solenoid, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2012‑04‑18. This issue stems from contamination of the oil control valve by sludge in high‑mileage or infrequently serviced engines. From 2013, revised solenoid filters and updated oil change intervals were introduced to improve reliability.
All production years (2009–2015) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Volkswagen CULA is a 1,390 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for compact city cars (2009–2015). It combines multi-point fuel injection with variable intake valve timing to deliver smooth low-speed response and dependable cold starts. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it prioritizes serviceability and fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, min. 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 79.5 mm | |
| Power output | 59 kW (80 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch MPI (multi-point injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted; maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers predictable performance and low complexity but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 502 00 oil to prevent sludge buildup and cam phaser solenoid clogging. The MPI system is tolerant of standard 95 RON fuel (EN 228 compliant) and less prone to carbon issues than direct injection. However, infrequent oil changes in stop-start urban use accelerate sludge formation, leading to variable valve timing faults. Post-2013 models include an updated oil control valve filter per VW SIB 2012‑04‑18. The front-mounted timing chain is generally robust but relies on clean oil for longevity.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 specification (VW SIB 2012‑04‑18). ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable only if VW-approved.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2009–2015 CULA engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output assumes 95 RON fuel (VW TIS Doc. 03C‑3010).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 03C‑1001, 03C‑2005, SIB 2012‑04‑18
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Volkswagen CULA was used across Volkswagen's Polo and Up! platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Up! and modified accessory brackets in the Polo 6R—and from 2013 minor ECU calibration updates were introduced to refine cold-start behavior, 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 (VW TIS 03C‑1001). The 4th and 5th digits of the engine number (e.g., 'CULA') confirm the variant. All CULA units feature a black plastic intake manifold and lack turbocharger hardware. Critical differentiation from similar MPI engines (e.g., BMD, BUD): CULA uses a unique cam phaser solenoid (part no. 03C 109 257 B) and specific ECU calibration (Bosch ME7.5.10). Service parts require production date verification—solenoids for engines before 06/2013 are incompatible with later units due to internal filter redesign (VW SIB 2012‑04‑18).
The CULA's primary reliability risk is cam phaser solenoid clogging due to oil sludge in high-mileage or infrequently serviced engines. Internal VW quality data from 2013 indicated a measurable share of pre-2013 engines requiring solenoid replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased emissions-related advisories in neglected examples. Extended oil intervals and short urban trips accelerate sludge formation, making oil quality and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2012–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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