The Volkswagen DGMA is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2017 and 2023. 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 Mk7.5 Golf R, Mk8 Golf R, and Audi S3 (8Y), the DGMA was engineered for sporty yet refined driving. Emissions compl…
Production years 2017–2018 meet Euro 6d‑TEMP standards; 2019–2023 models comply with Euro 6d depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9456).
The Volkswagen DGMA is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance hatchbacks and sedans (2017–2023). It combines direct fuel injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive power and strong mid‑range torque. Designed to meet Euro 6d‑TEMP and Euro 6d 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 6d‑TEMP (2017–2018); Euro 6d (2019–2023) | |
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 Volkswagen DGMA was used across Volkswagen's Mk7.5 and Mk8 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 2019 the Mk8 Golf R adopted updated HPFP and GPF hardware, creating minor interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Audi S3 (8Y) to use the same engine block with identical output. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The DGMA'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 2020 indicated a measurable uptick in HPFP replacements before 95,000 km in pre-2019 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 (2017–2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2023). 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 DGMA is generally robust when maintained properly. Early models (2017–2018) had HPFP concerns, but post-2019 revisions improved reliability significantly. Using correct 5W‑40 VW 502 00 oil and adhering to 10,000–15,000 km service intervals greatly enhances longevity. The timing chain is maintenance-free and durable.
The top issues are high-pressure fuel pump wear (pre-2019), GPF clogging from short trips, PCV diaphragm failure in the valve cover, and exhaust manifold stud corrosion. All are documented in Volkswagen service bulletins, with updated parts available for each.
The DGMA powered the Mk7.5 and Mk8 Golf R (2017–2023), and was also used in the Audi S3 (8Y), SEAT León Cupra R (Mk3 facelift), and Škoda Octavia vRS (Mk3/Mk4) under shared VAG engine codes. All deliver 220 PS and 350 Nm.
Yes. The DGMA responds well to ECU remapping, with stage 1 reliably delivering 250–270 PS. The stock internals, turbo, and fuel system support this safely. Stage 2 (larger turbo, intercooler) can reach 320 PS. Always use 98 RON fuel and maintain oil quality when tuned.
In a Golf R, expect ~9.5 L/100km (city) and ~6.2 L/100km (highway), or about 32 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically yields 28–35 mpg UK. Economy suffers with aggressive driving or frequent short trips due to turbo and HPFP demands.
Yes. The DGMA is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (extremely rare), piston-to-valve contact would cause catastrophic damage. However, the chain is front-mounted and designed for life-of-engine service with proper oil maintenance.
Volkswagen specifies 5W‑40 synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 or 504 00 standards. Always use a quality oil designed for turbocharged direct-injection petrol engines and change it every 10,000–15,000 km to protect the HPFP and turbo bearings.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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