VW Touran 5t engines

The second-generation VW Touran (5T) was launched in 2015 as a modern compact van and quickly established itself as a popular alternative to classic SUVs. The VW Touran 5t engines are characterized by a sophisticated range of economical TSI petrol engines and efficient TDI diesel units, which have been continuously further developed. From its introduction to the present day, the Touran has gone through several engine phases with significant technological improvements.

VW Touran 5t engines - market launch with EA211 and EA288 (2015-2018)

The first phase of the VW Touran 5t brought with it a completely new generation of engines based on Volkswagen's most modern units. The reliability of these engines is reflected in typical mileages of 250,000 to 350,000 kilometers with proper maintenance. Major repairs are usually due between 150,000 and 200,000 kilometers, with the 2.0 TDI with 150 hp being the absolute highlight of this generation.

The technical highlights included the introduction of the modular transverse matrix (MQB) and the associated EA211 petrol and EA288 diesel engines. In a market comparison, the Touran positioned itself as a technically advanced alternative to the Ford C-Max and Opel Zafira, with significantly more modern engine technologies.

VW Touran 5t TSI petrol engines: market launch (2015-2018)

The TSI engine range of the early Touran 5t was based on the proven EA211 family and offered three power levels. The 1.2 TSI with 110 PS (engine code CYVA) formed the entry level and proved to be an economical everyday engine, but suffered from occasional problems with the timing chain from around 120,000 kilometers. The 1.4 TSI with 125 PS (CZCA) offered a good balance between performance and consumption, while the 1.4 TSI with 150 PS (CZDA) was the sportiest variant.

The 1.4 TSI 150 PS in particular was characterized by its cylinder-on-demand technology, which switched off two cylinders at low load. The plastic thermostats proved to be problematic in all TSI variants, which had to be replaced between 80,000 and 120,000 kilometers. The direct injection also led to coking on the intake valves, which had to be cleaned every 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers.

VW Touran 5t TDI diesel engines: market launch (2015-2018)

The TDI engines of the EA288 family set new standards in terms of efficiency and cleanliness. The 1.6 TDI with 110 PS (engine code CXMA) served as the entry-level diesel and impressed with its low fuel consumption of around 4.5 liters per 100 kilometers. The 2.0 TDI was available in two power levels: 150 hp (CUNA) and 190 hp (CUAA), with the latter being combined exclusively with all-wheel drive.

The outstanding 2.0 TDI 150 PS combined powerful performance with an average fuel consumption of just 4.8 liters. All TDI engines already met the Euro 6 standard and were equipped with SCR catalytic converters with AdBlue injection. Weak points were mainly found in the exhaust gas recirculation valves, which could cause problems between 100,000 and 150,000 kilometers.

VW Touran 5t engines - facelift with optimized power units (2018-2023)

The facelift brought with it refined engine variants and new technologies. Mileage expectations increased to 300,000 to 400,000 kilometers, as Volkswagen eliminated the known weak points of the early engines. Maintenance intervals were extended to 15,000 kilometers, with major repairs usually only due after 200,000 kilometers. The 1.5 TSI EVO with 150 PS established itself as the best gasoline engine of this era.

The most important innovation was the introduction of the 1.5 TSI EVO engine, which replaced the previous 1.4 TSI. At the same time, all engines received detailed improvements and optimized control unit software. The Touran retained its strong position in the competitive environment, particularly thanks to its combination of efficiency and reliability.

VW Touran 5t TSI petrol engines: Facelift-Generation (2018–2023)

The revised 1.0 TSI with 115 PS (engine code CHZJ) replaced the 1.2 TSI as the entry-level engine and offered comparable performance with better fuel consumption despite a smaller displacement. The new 1.5 TSI EVO with 150 PS (DADA) became the heart of the petrol engine range and combined the proven cylinder deactivation with a Miller Cycle combustion process for optimum efficiency.

The cylinder-on-demand technology of the 1.5 TSI worked much more reliably than its predecessor and switched seamlessly between two and four cylinders. Problems with thermostats were largely eliminated thanks to more robust metal designs. However, the 1.0 TSI was prone to oil consumption at higher mileages, which required regular checks.

VW Touran 5t TDI diesel engines: Facelift-Generation (2018–2023)

The TDI family remained largely unchanged, but received optimized exhaust gas aftertreatment and improved control units. The 1.6 TDI (115 PS, DGDB) replaced the 110 PS variant and offered slightly more power with the same fuel consumption. The 2.0 TDI 150 PS (DFGA) was equipped with a larger turbocharger and developed even more consistent torque.

Particularly noteworthy is the improved AdBlue dosage, which reduced the consumption of the urea solution by around 20 percent. The SCR catalytic converters were given an additional heater for better cold-start properties. Problems with clogged particulate filters have been minimized through more intelligent regeneration cycles.

VW Touran 5t engines - Current generation with eTSI technology (2023-today)

The latest evolutionary stage brought mild hybrid technology to the Touran for the first time. The expected mileage is still in the range of 300,000 to 400,000 kilometers, whereby the 48-volt systems mean additional complexity. The 1.5 eTSI with 150 PS currently represents the most modern and efficient drive solution. Maintenance intervals remain at 15,000 kilometers, but the hybrid components require specialized diagnostic tools.

The eTSI technology combines proven TSI engines with 48-volt mild hybrid systems that recover energy during coasting and braking. In the market environment, the current Touran positions itself as one of the most technologically advanced compact vans, with efficiency values that outperform pure electric cars in certain scenarios.

VW Touran 5t eTSI petrol engines: Current generation (2023-today)

The 1.0 eTSI with 110 PS (engine code DKLA) combines the tried-and-tested three-cylinder engine with a 48-volt starter generator and a small lithium-ion battery. The system enables electric sailing at constant speeds and supports the combustion engine when accelerating. This reduces fuel consumption to just 4.9 liters per 100 kilometers.

The 1.5 eTSI with 150 hp (DKNA) represents the spearhead of petrol engine technology and combines Miller Cycle combustion, cylinder deactivation and mild hybrid support. The 48-volt system works seamlessly with the cylinder-on-demand technology and continuously optimizes operation. Initial experience shows a high level of reliability, although the long-term durability of the hybrid components cannot yet be conclusively assessed.

VW Touran 5t TDI diesel engines: Current generation (2023-present)

The diesel range has been reduced to the tried-and-tested 2.0 TDI with 150 hp, which has, however, been further optimized. The engine (DFTE) has improved turbocharging with variable turbine geometry and an optimized injection system. The AdBlue dosing system has been further refined, which further reduces the consumption of the urea solution.

Particularly noteworthy is the integration of an electric auxiliary heater, which shortens the warm-up phase and reduces emissions during cold starts. The exhaust gas aftertreatment system works with two SCR catalytic converters and an ammonia slip catalytic converter for maximum cleaning performance. Fuel consumption remains constant at 4.4 liters per 100 kilometers.

Conclusion: The best VW Touran 5t engines of all generations

The engine development of the VW Touran 5t reflects Volkswagen's consistent further development of modern drive technologies, from the first EA211 and EA288 units to the current eTSI mild hybrids. Across all generations, there has been a steady improvement in terms of efficiency, reliability and environmental compatibility, while the complexity of the systems has continuously increased.

• Best VW Touran 5t gasoline engine:

The 1.5 TSI EVO with 150 hp from the facelift generation (2018-2023) combines proven technology with sophisticated cylinder deactivation and offers the best balance of performance, consumption and long-term durability.

• Best VW Touran 5t diesel engine:

The 2.0 TDI with 150 hp of the first generation (2015-2018) is considered the reference for reliability and efficiency, with proven long-term durability of over 300,000 kilometers with proper maintenance.

• State-of-the-art drive:

The current generation 1.5 eTSI with 150 hp represents the future of propulsion in the Touran, combining combustion engine efficiency with electric assistance for optimum overall efficiency.

For all VW Touran 5t engines, you will find high-quality spare and wear parts at AUTODOC to maintain the reliability and performance of your vehicle in the long term.