The Volkswagen DLTA is a 1,968 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 340 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive low‑rpm performance and highway efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Mk7 Golf, Passat B8, Tiguan Mk2, and Touran, the DLTA was designed for drivers prioritising fuel economy, strong mid‑range torque, and smooth refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, meeting Euro 6 standards.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2025‑07. This issue is linked to fuel lubricity degradation under extended low-load conditions and marginal diesel quality. From 2018, revised HPFP internals and updated ECU calibration were introduced to mitigate premature wear.
Production years 2015–2020 meet Euro 6 standards across all markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen DLTA is a 1,968 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2015–2020). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger and AdBlue SCR aftertreatment to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and low NOx emissions. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances everyday performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel (EN 590) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) | |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common‑rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted; low‑wear design) | |
| Oil type | VW 507 00 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The DLTA delivers smooth, torque-rich performance ideal for mixed driving but requires strict use of EN 590 ultra-low-sulfur diesel to prevent HPFP wear. VW 507 00 (5W-30) oil is mandatory to protect emissions hardware and maintain DPF/SCR function. Extended short-trip driving without AdBlue top-ups risks NOx sensor faults and limp mode. HPFP failures—often preceded by hard starts or rail pressure DTCs—should be addressed per SIB 2025‑07, which recommends updated pump internals for pre-2018 engines. EGR coolers and intake manifolds remain prone to carbon fouling; periodic cleaning is advised.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 (5W-30) specification (Volkswagen SIB 2025‑07). Not interchangeable with 504 00 or ACEA C3.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all DLTA production (2015–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across EU markets (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 03G‑9030).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 03G‑9012, 03G‑9025, SIB 2025‑07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Volkswagen DLTA was used across Volkswagen's Mk7/B8 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Škoda and SEAT under the MQB architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Passat and modified coolant routing in the Tiguan—and from 2018 the updated HPFP and ECU calibration, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil pump (Volkswagen TIS 03G‑8801). The 7th VIN digit for DLTA-equipped vehicles is typically 'D' or 'E' depending on model. DLTA is visually distinguished by its AdBlue tank (mounted under rear seat or boot floor) and SCR catalyst in the exhaust. Critical differentiation from EA288 evo engines: DLTA uses Bosch EDC17CP54 ECU with round OBD port; later variants use EDC17CP64. HPFP part number 03G 130 026 E indicates pre-2018 build; post-2018 units use 03G 130 026 F (Volkswagen SIB 2025‑07).
The DLTA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips and marginal diesel quality. Volkswagen internal field data from 2019 indicated a measurable uptick in HPFP replacements before 100,000 km in urban fleets, while UK DVSA MOT records show low AdBlue system faults as a growing emissions failure mode. Extended idling and infrequent highway use reduce DPF regeneration efficiency, making fuel quality and driving pattern critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2015–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN DLTA.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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