The Volkswagen DFNB is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. 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 responsive performance with strong mid‑range pull.
Fitted to models such as the Mk7 Golf R, Mk7.5 Golf R, and Audi S3 (8V facelift), the DFNB was engineered for sporty yet refined driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through a combination of stratified lean‑burn strategies, a high‑efficiency twin‑scroll turbocharger, and a close‑coupled three‑way catalyst, allowing compliance with Euro 6b and later Euro 6d‑TEMP standards depending on model year and market.
One documented concern is high‑pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear in early DFNB units, particularly under extended service intervals or with poor‑quality fuel. This issue, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2016‑12, stems from marginal lubrication of the cam‑driven HPFP plunger. From mid‑2017 onward, revised pump internals and updated ECU calibration reduced failure incidence.
Production years 2015–2017 meet Euro 6b standards; 2018–2020 models comply with Euro 6d‑TEMP depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).
The Volkswagen DFNB is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance hatchbacks and sedans (2015–2020). It combines direct fuel injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive power and strong mid‑range torque. Designed to meet Euro 6b and Euro 6d‑TEMP 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 HDP6 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 250 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b (2015–2017); Euro 6d‑TEMP (2018–2020) | |
| 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. Mid‑2017 onward models feature updated HPFP internals per STB 2016‑12, 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 2016‑12). Not compatible with ACEA C3 unless explicitly approved.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to 2015–2017 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912). 2018–2020 models meet Euro 6d‑TEMP in all EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Full 162 kW output requires 95 RON minimum fuel (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 06K-400-03).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 06K-100-02, 06K-210-06, STB 2016‑12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8912)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Volkswagen DFNB was used across Volkswagen's Mk7 and Mk7.5 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 Golf R Performance—and from 2018 the facelifted Golf R adopted GPF hardware, creating minor interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Audi S3 (8V facelift) 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-010-02). The 4th and 5th digits of the VIN indicate engine family ('DF' for this series). Early DFNB engines (2015–mid-2017) use a black plastic HPFP with Bosch part number 06F 127 025 C; post-mid-2017 units feature a revised silver-top pump (06F 127 025 E). Critical differentiation from DFGC: DFNB uses updated Bosch HDP6 fuel system and revised ECU mapping. ECU part number 06K 907 551 H or later confirms DFNB application.
The DFNB'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 2018 indicated a measurable uptick in HPFP replacements before 90,000 km in pre-mid-2017 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 (2015–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN DFNB.
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