The Volkswagen DFGC is a 1,984 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 delivers 162 kW (220 PS) and 350 Nm of torque, enabling strong mid‑range pull and responsive performance.
Fitted to models such as the Mk7 Golf R, Mk3 Scirocco R, and Audi S3 (8V), the DFGC was engineered for sporty yet refined driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through a combination of stratified lean‑burn strategies, a high‑efficiency turbocharger, and a close‑coupled three‑way catalyst, allowing compliance with Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards depending on model year and market.
One documented concern is high‑pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in vehicles with extended service intervals or poor‑quality fuel. This issue, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2015‑07, stems from inadequate lubrication of the cam‑driven HPFP plunger. From 2016 onward, revised pump internals and updated calibration reduced failure rates.
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2019 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen DFGC is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance hatchbacks and coupes (2012–2019). It combines direct fuel injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive power and strong mid‑range torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances sporty dynamics with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (ULP 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin‑scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 162 kW (220 PS) @ 5,100–6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1,700–5,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2019) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Twin‑scroll IHI IS20 | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 149 kg |
The twin‑scroll turbo provides immediate throttle response and strong mid‑range torque, ideal for spirited road use. However, the cam‑driven high‑pressure fuel pump is sensitive to low‑quality fuel and extended oil change intervals, which can accelerate wear. VW 502 00/504 00 (5W‑40) oil is essential to maintain HPFP lubrication and timing chain longevity. Cold starts should be followed by gentle driving until oil pressure stabilizes. Post‑2016 models feature updated HPFP internals per STB 2015‑07, reducing failure incidence. Carbon buildup on intake valves is minimal due to direct injection but may occur in high‑mileage units; walnut blasting is rarely required.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 (5W‑40) specification (Volkswagen STB 2015‑07). Not compatible with ACEA C3 unless explicitly approved.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2012–2014 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). 2015–2019 models meet Euro 6 in all EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Full 162 kW output requires 95 RON minimum fuel (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 06K-400-02).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 06K-100-01, 06K-210-05, STB 2015‑07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Volkswagen DFGC was used across Volkswagen's Mk7 and Mk3 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Audi under the MLB/MLBevo architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Golf R and revised cooling in the Scirocco R—and from 2016 the facelifted Golf R adopted updated HPFP and ECU calibrations, creating minor interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Audi S3 (8V) to use the same engine block with identical output. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil filter housing (Volkswagen TIS 06K-010-01). The 4th and 5th digits of the VIN indicate engine family ('DF' for this series). Pre-2016 models use a black plastic HPFP with Bosch part number 06F 127 025 B; post-2016 units feature a revised silver-top pump (06F 127 025 D). Critical differentiation from CAEB/CZHA: DFGC uses a twin-scroll IHI IS20 turbo with integrated exhaust manifold, whereas earlier variants used single-scroll units. ECU part number 06K 907 551 F or later confirms DFGC application.
The DFGC's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles using low-quality fuel or extended oil intervals. Volkswagen internal data from 2016 indicated a measurable uptick in HPFP replacements before 80,000 km in pre-2016 units, while UK DVSA records show no significant emissions-related MOT failures linked to this engine. Short-trip driving and infrequent oil changes accelerate HPFP and turbo bearing wear, making oil quality and interval adherence 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 DFGC.
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