The Volkswagen Golf VI Plus 1.4 TSI (160 hp) was a variant of the Golf VI Plus model, produced from December 2008 to January 2014. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Plus lineup – a stretched, more practical version of the standard Golf VI – it aimed to provide a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and space for families. The Golf VI Plus, differentiated from the standard Golf by its extended wheelbase and increased rear passenger legroom, was primarily marketed in Europe as a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). This 1.4 TSI engine, coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, represented a popular choice for buyers seeking a more engaging driving experience than the diesel options while still benefiting from modern engine technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf |
| Generation | Golf VI Plus |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (160 Hp) |
| Start of production | December, 2008 |
| End of production | January, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 214 km/h (132.97 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 108 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 162.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 115.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CAVD, CTHD, CTKA |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharging and Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1481 kg (3265.05 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1990 kg (4387.2 lbs) |
| Max load | 509 kg (1122.15 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 395 l (13.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1450 l (51.21 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4204 mm (165.51 in) |
| Width | 1759 mm (69.25 in) |
| Height | 1592 mm (62.68 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2578 mm (101.5 in) |
| Front track | 1541 mm (60.67 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1517 mm (59.72 in) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Golf VI Plus 1.4 TSI (160 hp) was the EA111 engine family, specifically utilizing the CAVD, CTHD, or CTKA engine codes depending on the specific production year and market. This engine was notable for its combination of a turbocharger and a supercharger – a configuration known as “twincharging.” The supercharger provided immediate boost at low engine speeds, eliminating turbo lag, while the turbocharger took over at higher RPMs for sustained power delivery. This setup, coupled with direct fuel injection, allowed for a relatively small displacement engine to produce significant power and torque. The 1.4 TSI featured a 16-valve cylinder head with variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust sides, further optimizing performance and efficiency. The six-speed manual transmission offered precise shifts and contributed to the car’s engaging driving dynamics.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 hp 1.4 TSI engine in the Golf VI Plus provided brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 8.1 seconds. While not as outright sporty as the Golf GTI, it offered ample power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The twincharged setup delivered a broad torque curve, with 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) available from 1500-4500 rpm, making the car feel responsive in various driving situations. The six-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to fully exploit the engine’s powerband. Compared to the 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine offered in lower trims, the 1.4 TSI provided a noticeable performance upgrade. It also offered a more refined driving experience than the diesel options, though at the expense of slightly lower fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Golf VI Plus 1.4 TSI (160 hp) typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system with CD player. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with optional leather available. The Golf VI Plus offered a range of optional extras, including a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded audio systems. The “Plus” designation itself implied a higher level of practicality, with features like adjustable rear seats and a larger cargo area compared to the standard Golf VI.
Chassis & Braking
The Golf VI Plus utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable yet controlled ride. The suspension was tuned to balance handling and comfort, making it suitable for both city driving and longer journeys. Braking systems varied depending on the trim level, with lower trims featuring disc brakes on the front and drum brakes on the rear. Higher trims typically included disc brakes on all four wheels. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Golf VI Plus 1.4 TSI (160 hp) was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, good performance, and practical interior. Fuel economy was considered competitive for its class, averaging around 36.2 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the 1.6-liter Golf Plus, the 1.4 TSI offered a significant performance boost. Against the diesel-powered Golf Plus models, it provided a more engaging driving experience, though with slightly higher running costs. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the turbocharger and supercharger systems over the long term.
Legacy
The 1.4 TSI engine, in its various iterations, became a mainstay in the Volkswagen Group lineup for many years. While the twincharged version of the engine was eventually superseded by newer, more efficient designs, it remains a respected powerplant. The Golf VI Plus 1.4 TSI (160 hp) holds a reasonable position in the used car market today, offering a good balance of practicality, performance, and fuel efficiency. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for issues with the twincharging system and ensure that the car has been properly maintained. The Golf VI Plus, as a whole, is remembered as a versatile and well-built compact MPV that offered a compelling alternative to traditional hatchbacks.
