The 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbo Volkswagen DNKA has been produced since 2021 and is installed on the Volkswagen Jetta and Volkswagen Taos USA. This EA211 engine has direct injection, a Garrett MGT1241VZ turbocharger and a timing belt and produces 158-160 hp and 250 Nm. It works on the Miller cycle and belongs to the 1.5 TSI evo generation.
1.5 TSI EA211 family: DADA, DACA, DFYA, DPCA, DACB, DPBA, DPBC, DPBE, DRBA, DNKA, DSVA, DYBA, DXDB, DXDC, DXDE.
Specifications
| Production years | since 2021 |
| Displacement, cc | 1498 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 158 – 160 |
| Torque output, Nm | 250 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 74.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 85.9 |
| Compression ratio | 11.5 |
| Features | Miller Cycle |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | on all shafts |
| Turbocharging | Garrett MGT1241VZ |
| Recommended engine oil | 0W-20 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.3 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 6d |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Volkswagen Jetta 2023) — city — highway — combined |
8.1 5.5 6.4 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~250 000 |
| Weight, kg | 117 |
The engine was installed on:
- Volkswagen Jetta 7 (BU) since 2021;
- Volkswagen Taos USA 1 (CL) in 2021 – 2024.
Disadvantages of the Volkswagen DNKA engine
- Many owners complain about jerky operation when cold, the so-called kangaroo effect, especially in first gear;
- The ACT cylinder deactivation can cause jerks when it switches on;
- The plasma-sprayed cylinder walls do not tolerate poor fuel;
- The timing belt is replaced every 210,000 km, but if it breaks earlier the valves bend; a special tool is needed to replace it, and not every workshop has one;
- Like all direct-injection engines, it is prone to carbon deposits on the intake valves.
Frequently asked questions about the Volkswagen DNKA
How much power does the Volkswagen DNKA make?
The Volkswagen DNKA develops 158 - 160 hp and 250 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Volkswagen DNKA take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.3 liters. Recommended oil: 0W-20.
Does the Volkswagen DNKA have a timing belt or chain?
The Volkswagen DNKA uses a timing belt.
Is the Volkswagen DNKA turbocharged?
Yes, the Volkswagen DNKA is turbocharged (Garrett MGT1241VZ).
Does the Volkswagen DNKA need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Volkswagen DNKA has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Volkswagen DNKA last?
The typical lifespan of the Volkswagen DNKA is ~250 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Volkswagen DNKA?
Volkswagen Jetta 2023: city 8.1, highway 5.5, combined 6.4 L/100 km.
What cars was the Volkswagen DNKA installed on?
Volkswagen Jetta 7 (BU) since 2021; Volkswagen Taos USA 1 (CL) in 2021 - 2024.
What are the common problems of the Volkswagen DNKA?
Many owners complain about jerky operation when cold, the so-called kangaroo effect, especially in first gear. The ACT cylinder deactivation can cause jerks when it switches on. All known problems.
