The Volkswagen DAFA is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2019 and 2024. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing. In standard form it delivers 180 kW (245 PS) and 370 Nm of torque, enabling strong performance with refined drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Mk8 Golf R, Audi S3 (8Y), and Cupra León, the DAFA was engineered for high output with everyday usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), precise cam phasing, and a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 6d standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive lobe on the intake camshaft, highlighted in Volkswagen Group Service Bulletin 2021‑04‑03. This stems from marginal lubrication under high-load, high-RPM operation. From late 2022, revised camshaft profiles and updated HPFP internals were introduced to improve durability.
All production years 2019–2024 meet Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
The Volkswagen DAFA is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engineered for high-performance hatchbacks and sedans (2019–2024). It combines direct injection (TSI) with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range torque and high-rev responsiveness. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances sporty performance with stringent emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min, RON 98 recommended) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 180 kW (245 PS) @ 5,000–6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 1,600–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV6 direct injection (350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual-circuit layout | |
| Turbocharger | Twin‑scroll IHI IS38 | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 0W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 162 kg |
The twin-scroll IHI IS38 turbo and 350-bar HDEV6 injectors enable rapid torque delivery and high specific output, but demand RON 98 fuel for optimal performance and longevity. Strict adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil changes using VW 504 00/507 00 (0W‑20) is essential to protect the HPFP cam lobe and timing chain. Early DAFA engines (2019–late 2022) are susceptible to HPFP drive lobe wear under aggressive use; post-2022 units incorporate camshaft and HPFP revisions per VW SIB 2021‑04‑03. The GPF requires periodic high-load driving to prevent saturation and regeneration faults.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 (0W-20) specification (VW Owner’s Manual Mk8 Golf R). Not interchangeable with 5W-40 oils.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all DAFA production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Full 245 PS output requires RON 98 fuel (VW TIS Doc. 06K‑10250).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 06K‑10250, 06K‑9005
Volkswagen Group Service Bulletin 2021‑04‑03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9876)
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Volkswagen DAFA was used across Volkswagen Group's MQB Evo platform with transverse mounting and shared with Audi and Cupra. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Golf R Mk8, revised cooling in the Audi S3 8Y, and exhaust routing changes in the Cupra León—creating minor service part differences. 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 06K‑10250). The 7th VIN digit for Golf R is 'R'; for Audi S3 it is '8'. DAFA is visually distinguished by its black plastic intake manifold with integrated charge pipe and IHI IS38 turbo (silver housing with twin-scroll outlet). Critical differentiation from CZDA/CYVB: DAFA uses Bosch HDEV6 injectors (350 bar), includes a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), and requires 0W‑20 oil. HPFP part number 06K 127 025 H (pre-2023) vs. 06K 127 025 J (post-2023) indicates service bulletin compliance.
The DAFA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive lobe wear on the intake camshaft, with elevated incidence in track-driven or frequently high-load vehicles. VW internal field data from 2022 indicated a measurable uptick in HPFP-related camshaft replacements before 60,000 km in pre-late-2022 builds, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related MOT failures due to robust GPF and catalyst design. Sustained high-RPM operation without adequate oil quality accelerates wear, making correct oil specification and driving pattern critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2021–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN DAFA.
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