The Volkswagen CUNA 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. In standard form it delivered 110 kW (150 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, with strong low‑rpm responsiveness for everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Golf VII (Mk7), Passat B8, and Tiguan Mk2—including the 1.4 TSI 150 variants—the CUNA was engineered for a bala…
All production years (2012–2019) meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen CUNA is a 1,395 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2012–2019). It combines direct fuel injection (TSI) with variable valve timing to deliver responsive low‑end torque and smooth high‑rpm power. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances performance with urban and motorway 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 | 110 kW (150 PS) | |
Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit layout | |
Turbocharger | Single turbo (Honeywell TD025) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted; early tensioner wear reported) | |
Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑30 or 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 112 kg |
The Volkswagen CUNA was used across Volkswagen's MQB platform with transverse mounting and shared with SEAT, Škoda, and Audi under the EA211 Gen 2 family. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Passat B8 and modified exhaust routing in the Tiguan Mk2—and from 2016 received updated timing components, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CUNA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequently serviced vehicles. Volkswagen internal quality data from 2017 indicated a measurable uptick in chain-related warranty claims for pre-mid-2016 engines, while UK DVSA MOT records show low emissions failure rates due to robust Euro 6 compliance. Extended oil intervals and stop-start urban driving accelerate tensioner fatigue, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2015–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2023). 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 CUNA is generally robust when maintained properly. Early engines (2012–mid-2016) had timing tensioner concerns, but post-2016 revisions improved durability. Using correct VW-spec oil and adhering to service intervals greatly enhances longevity. Most issues arise from neglected maintenance rather than inherent design flaws.
Top issues include timing chain tensioner wear (pre-2016), intake valve carbon buildup due to direct injection, turbo actuator faults, and coolant flange leaks. These are documented in Volkswagen service bulletins and addressed with updated parts or cleaning procedures.
The CUNA powered the Golf VII (1.4 TSI 150), Passat B8, Tiguan Mk2, Škoda Octavia III, SEAT Leon Mk3, and Audi A3 8V—all from 2012–2019. It was part of the EA211 Gen 2 family and always produced 150 PS (110 kW).
Yes. Stage 1 ECU remaps typically yield +20–25 kW (27–34 PS) safely on stock hardware. The turbo and internals support modest increases, but aggressive tuning without upgraded cooling or fueling may reduce reliability. Always use high-octane fuel (98 RON) after tuning.
In a Golf VII 1.4 TSI 150, expect ~6.2 L/100km (city) and ~4.4 L/100km (highway), or ~48 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 45–52 mpg (UK), depending on conditions and maintenance status.
Yes. The CUNA is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic internal damage. Prompt attention to any timing-related noise or codes is essential.
Volkswagen specifies 5W‑30 or 5W‑40 synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 or 504 00 standards. Always use a quality oil designed for turbocharged direct-injection engines and change it every 15,000 km or 12 months.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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