The Volkswagen CXSA is a 1,498 cc, inline‑four turbo‑petrol engine produced between 2021 and 2024. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), a single twin‑scroll turbocharger, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing. In standard form it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive urban performance and efficient highway cruising.
Fitted to compact models such as the Mk8 Golf, T — Roc, and Taigo, the CXSA was developed to meet f…
All CXSA production (2021–2024) meets full Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen CXSA is a 1,498 cc inline‑four turbo‑petrol engineered for compact and subcompact models (2021–2024). It combines direct fuel injection (TSI) with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end torque and smooth high‑rpm power. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards from launch, it balances performance with stringent environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin‑scroll) | |
Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 85.9 mm | |
Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDEV6 direct injection (200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit thermostat | |
Turbocharger | Honeywell twin‑scroll (integrated exhaust manifold) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 128 kg |
The Volkswagen CXSA was used across Volkswagen's MQB Evo platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Taigo for NVH control and updated ECU calibration in the Golf Mk8 for GPF management—and all variants share identical core architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CXSA's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon fouling due to direct injection, with elevated incidence in urban/short-trip usage. Volkswagen internal service data (2023) indicates a measurable increase in induction cleaning requests after 60,000 km in city-driven vehicles, while UK DVSA MOT records show GPF-related warning lights as a growing cause of advisory notices. Frequent cold starts and low-load operation accelerate deposit formation, making fuel quality and driving pattern critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2021–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2024). 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 CXSA is generally robust with proper maintenance, but direct injection leads to intake carbon buildup over time. Using 95 RON fuel, adhering to service intervals, and occasional highway driving significantly improve longevity. All units meet Euro 6d, reducing emissions-related advisories compared to earlier TSI variants.
Top issues include intake valve carbon fouling, GPF clogging from short trips, PCV system failures, and turbo actuator calibration drift. These are documented in VW service bulletins and increasingly reflected in MOT advisories related to emissions systems.
The CXSA powers the Golf Mk8 (1.5 TSI 150 PS), T-Roc (2021–2024), and Taigo (2021–2024). All are MQB Evo-platform vehicles meeting full Euro 6d emissions standards from launch.
Yes. Stage 1 ECU remaps typically yield +20–25 kW (27–34 PS) safely on stock hardware. The turbo and internals support moderate tuning, but GPF and thermal management require careful calibration. Always use 98 RON fuel post-tune and monitor for knock or overheating.
Official WLTP combined figures range from 5.3–5.8 L/100km (49–53 mpg UK). Real-world mixed driving typically achieves 6.0–6.8 L/100km (42–47 mpg UK), depending on model and driving style. Short-trip urban use can exceed 8.0 L/100km.
Yes. The CXSA is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails (though rare due to robust design), piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the chain is designed as lifetime with no scheduled replacement.
Volkswagen specifies 5W-30 oil meeting VW 504 00 / 507 00 standards. This low-SAPS formulation protects the GPF and turbo. Oil changes every 15,000 km or annually are recommended, especially with urban driving.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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