The 1.4 TSI engine, part of the Volkswagen Group’s EA211 series, represents a significant step forward in small displacement, turbocharged gasoline engine technology. This 1.4-liter, four-cylinder engine was engineered for vehicles utilizing VW’s MQB platform, emphasizing modularity and efficiency across the vehicle range. While superficially similar in output and size to its predecessor, the 1.4 TSI EA111, the EA211 iteration is a completely redesigned engine, incorporating lessons learned from previous turbocharged units to deliver enhanced performance, efficiency, and reliability.
Innovative Design and Construction
The 1.4 TSI EA211 distinguishes itself with a lightweight aluminum cylinder block, featuring cast iron cylinder liners. This construction choice contributes to a substantial weight reduction of 24.5 kg compared to the older EA111 engine. Further weight savings and enhanced durability are achieved through the use of a new die-forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods. Engine dimensions were also refined, with the stroke increased to 80 mm and the cylinder bore reduced to 74.5 mm. For optimized packaging within MQB platform vehicles, the engine block is tilted rearward by 12 degrees, positioning the exhaust manifold towards the firewall for greater uniformity across different models.
Advanced Cylinder Head and Valvetrain
An aluminum alloy 16-valve DOHC cylinder head is employed, integrating a water-cooled exhaust manifold directly into the head casting. A notable change from the EA111 is the switch to a timing belt for camshaft drive, intended to last the engine’s lifespan, replacing the timing chain of the older engine. Valve timing is variable on the intake side for 122 hp versions, while higher output versions (140+ hp) benefit from variable timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts, optimizing performance and efficiency across the rev range. Hydraulic tappets and roller finger cam followers ensure automatic valve clearance adjustment and minimize friction within the valvetrain.
Turbocharging and Fuel Delivery System
The 1.4 TSI engine utilizes a turbocharger with a water-cooled intercooler integrated into the intake manifold. This compact design helps to reduce intake air temperatures, increasing engine power and efficiency. The cooling system is designed with two loops: a low-temperature circuit dedicated to the intercooler and turbocharger housing, and a main engine cooling circuit. The integrated exhaust manifold facilitates rapid engine warm-up and also aids in cooling exhaust gases under high load conditions, contributing to turbocharger longevity. The catalytic converter is positioned downstream of the turbocharger for quicker activation after engine start.
Direct fuel injection is retained from the EA111, with the EA211 system featuring a high-pressure pump capable of 200 bar injection pressure. Five-hole injection nozzles deliver fuel precisely into the combustion chambers, with up to three injection events per cycle for optimized combustion. Certain versions of the 1.4 TSI, specifically the 103 kW (140 hp) variant with Active Cylinder Technology (ACT), can deactivate two cylinders under light loads to further improve fuel economy.
1.4 TSI Engine Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Skoda Auto plant, Mlada Boleslav |
| Production Years | 2012-Present |
| Cylinder Block Material | Aluminum |
| Cylinder Head Material | Aluminum |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Fuel System | Direct Fuel Injection |
| Configuration | Inline |
| Number of Cylinders | 4 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 |
| Valvetrain Layout | DOHC |
| Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in) |
| Stroke | 80.0 mm (3.15 in) |
| Displacement | 1,395 cc (85.1 cu in) |
| Engine Type | Four-stroke, Turbocharged |
| Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 – 10.0:1 |
| Power Output | 122-150 hp (91-112kW) @ 5,000 rpm |
| Torque Output | 147-184 lb-ft (200-250 Nm) @ 1,500-4,000 rpm |
| Firing Order | 1-3-4-2 |
| Recommended Engine Oil | 5W-30, 5W-40 |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 3.8 liters |
| Oil Change Interval | 12,000 miles (20,000 km)/12 months |
| Vehicle Applications | Volkswagen Golf, Jetta, Passat, Skoda Octavia, Rapid, Superb, Audi A3, A4 |
Reliability and Common Considerations
The EA211 1.4 TSI engine addressed key weaknesses found in its EA111 predecessor. The timing chain issues prevalent in earlier models were eliminated with the switch to a more durable timing belt. Improved thermal management through the integrated exhaust manifold also contributes to faster warm-up times in cold conditions and reduced turbocharger stress. While these advancements enhance long-term reliability, the 1.4 TSI EA211 incorporates more complex components and electronic control systems. This increased sophistication may potentially lead to higher repair costs if issues arise, requiring specialized diagnostic equipment and expertise.
1.4 TSI Engine Modifications and Variants
The 1.4 TSI EA211 engine is produced in several variations, offering different power outputs and features to suit a range of vehicle applications:
- CMBA/CPVA (122 hp): Base version with 0.8 bar boost pressure and 10.5:1 compression ratio.
- Applications: VW Golf Mk7, SEAT Leon 3, Skoda Octavia A7, Skoda Rapid, Audi A3.
- CZCA/CPVB (125 hp): Euro 6 emission standard compliant version, maintaining 0.8 bar boost and 10.5:1 compression.
- Applications: VW Golf Mk7, Skoda Rapid, Audi A3.
- CHPA (140 hp): Higher output variant producing 250 Nm of torque, with 1.2 bar boost pressure and 10.0:1 compression ratio.
- Applications: VW Golf Mk7, SEAT Leon FR, Skoda Octavia A7, Audi A3.
- CPTA (140 hp ACT): CHPA engine equipped with Active Cylinder Technology (ACT) for enhanced fuel efficiency.
- CZDA/CHPB (150 hp): Performance-oriented version with 184 lb-ft of torque, 1.2 bar max boost, and 10:1 compression ratio.
- CZEA (150 hp ACT): CZDA engine with Active Cylinder Technology (ACT), combining performance with fuel saving features.
