The Volkswagen DKLB is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2024. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing. In standard form it delivers 235 kW (320 PS) and 420 Nm of torque, enabling rapid acceleration and responsive mid‑range performance.
Fitted to high‑performance models such as the Mk8 Golf R and Audi RS3 (8Y), the DKLB was engineered for track‑capable yet road‑refined driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), stratified lean‑burn strategies, and a close‑coupled three‑way catalyst, allowing full compliance with Euro 6d standards across all markets.
One documented concern is high‑pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear in early DKLB units, particularly under extended service intervals or with poor‑quality fuel. This issue, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2021‑03, stems from marginal lubrication of the cam‑driven HPFP plunger. From 2022 onward, revised pump internals and updated ECU calibration reduced failure incidence.
All production years (2020–2024) meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/11087).
The Volkswagen DKLB is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high‑performance hatchbacks and sedans (2020–2024). It combines direct fuel injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver rapid acceleration and strong mid‑range torque. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances track capability with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (ULP 98 RON min recommended) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin‑scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 235 kW (320 PS) @ 5,400–6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 2,100–5,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit thermostat and auxiliary radiator | |
| Turbocharger | Twin‑scroll IHI IS38 | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 0W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 152 kg |
The twin‑scroll IHI IS38 turbo enables rapid spool and high peak power, making the DKLB ideal for performance applications. However, the cam‑driven high‑pressure fuel pump is sensitive to low‑quality fuel and extended oil change intervals, which can accelerate wear. VW 504 00/507 00 (0W‑40) oil is essential to maintain HPFP lubrication, turbo bearing life, and timing chain longevity. Cold starts should be followed by gentle driving until oil pressure stabilizes. Post‑2022 models feature updated HPFP internals per STB 2021‑03, reducing failure incidence. The integrated gasoline particulate filter (GPF) requires occasional highway driving to regenerate and avoid clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 or 507 00 (0W‑40) specification (Volkswagen STB 2021‑03). Not compatible with older 5W‑40 unless explicitly approved.
Emissions: All DKLB engines (2020–2024) are certified to Euro 6d (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/11087).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Full 235 kW output requires 98 RON fuel (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 06K-400-08).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 06K-100-07, 06K-210-11, STB 2021‑03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/11087)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Volkswagen DKLB was used across Volkswagen's Mk8 platform with transverse mounting and shared with Audi under the MLB/MLBevo architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts and performance cooling in the Golf R—and from 2022 the facelifted Golf R adopted updated HPFP and ECU calibrations, creating minor interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Audi RS3 (8Y) 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-010-07). The 4th and 5th digits of the VIN indicate engine family ('DK' for this series). Early DKLB engines (2020–2021) use a black plastic HPFP with Bosch part number 06F 127 025 J; post-2022 units feature a revised silver-top pump (06F 127 025 K). Critical differentiation from DJHA: DKLB uses updated Bosch HDP6 fuel system with 350-bar capability and revised ECU mapping. ECU part number 06K 907 551 L or later confirms DKLB application.
The DKLB'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 2023 indicated a measurable uptick in HPFP replacements before 75,000 km in pre-2022 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 (2020–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN DKLB.
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