The Volkswagen Touran I (facelift 2010) 1.6 TDI, equipped with a 105 horsepower engine and a BMT DSG (BlueMotion Technology Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmission, represents a significant iteration of Volkswagen’s compact minivan. Introduced as part of the Touran’s first generation facelift in 2010 and continuing through 2015, this model was primarily aimed at the European market, where compact MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles) were – and continue to be – a popular choice for families. The Touran offered a practical and versatile alternative to larger, more expensive vans, focusing on fuel efficiency and a comfortable driving experience. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding its specifications and features provides insight into Volkswagen’s engineering priorities for the European automotive landscape.
Volkswagen Touran I (Facelift 2010) 1.6 TDI: An Overview
The Touran, launched in 2003, filled a gap in Volkswagen’s lineup between the Golf and larger vehicles like the Sharan. The 2010 facelift brought styling updates, improved fuel economy, and refined engine options, including the 1.6 TDI BMT. This version specifically targeted buyers seeking a balance between practicality, running costs, and modern technology. The “BMT” designation signifies Volkswagen’s BlueMotion Technology, a suite of efficiency-enhancing features designed to reduce emissions and improve fuel consumption. The DSG transmission further contributed to both efficiency and driving enjoyment, offering smooth and rapid gear changes.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Touran I (facelift 2010) 1.6 TDI lies a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine, designated CAYC. This engine produces 105 horsepower at 4400 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 2500 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler work in tandem to optimize power delivery and efficiency. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 65.7 hp/l. Paired with the seven-speed DSG transmission, the Touran achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 12.8 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 12.2 seconds. Its maximum speed is 186 km/h (115.58 mph). Fuel economy is a key strength, with combined cycle consumption rated at 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l). The engine meets Euro 5 emission standards, and incorporates a particulate filter to reduce harmful emissions.
Design & Features
The Volkswagen Touran I (facelift 2010) is a five-door minivan designed to comfortably accommodate five passengers. Its body style prioritizes practicality and space utilization. The facelifted model features revised front and rear styling, including updated headlights and bumpers. Inside, the Touran offers a flexible seating arrangement, with the rear seats often capable of folding or being removed entirely to maximize cargo space. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 695 liters (24.54 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1989 liters (70.24 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. Safety features, typical for a vehicle of this era, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The vehicle’s dimensions are 4397 mm (173.11 in.) in length, 1794 mm (70.63 in.) in width, and 1674 mm (65.91 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2678 mm (105.43 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Touran |
| Generation | Touran I (facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (105 Hp) BMT DSG |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 186 km/h (115.58 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.8 kg/Hp, 67.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 160.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CAYC |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1556 kg (3430.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2190 kg (4828.12 lbs.) |
| Max load | 634 kg (1397.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 695 l (24.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1989 l (70.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4397 mm (173.11 in.) |
| Width | 1794 mm (70.63 in.) |
| Height | 1674 mm (65.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2678 mm (105.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission DSG |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15; 6.5J x 16 |
The Volkswagen Touran I (facelift 2010) 1.6 TDI BMT DSG offered a compelling package for European families seeking a practical, efficient, and well-equipped minivan. Its combination of a fuel-efficient diesel engine, a smooth-shifting DSG transmission, and a spacious interior made it a popular choice in its segment.


