What these engines share
The two most common 1.4–1.6L turbo four-cylinders in the European C-segment: PSA's EP6/THP (Prince engine, BMW co-development) vs VW's EA211 1.4 TSI. Both power hatchbacks, small SUVs, and C-segment saloons.
EP6/THP (Prince) vs EA211 1.4 TSI at a glance
| EP6/THP (Prince) | EA211 1.4 TSI | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | PSA | Volkswagen |
| Score | 40/100 | 78/100 |
| Verdict | AVOID | BUY |
| Type | 1.6L Turbo I4 | 1.4L TSI |
| Known issues | 7 | 2 |
EP6/THP (Prince) — 40/100 (AVOID)
Found in: Peugeot 207, 308, 3008, 5008, RCZ 1.6 THP (EP6DT/EP6DTS); MINI Cooper S and JCW R56 (N14)
Key issues
- Timing chain stretch and hydraulic tensioner failure — chain can jump — severity critical, cost €800–2.650, onset from 40.000 km
- High oil consumption — piston rings, valve stem seals, crankcase breather — severity high
- High-pressure fuel pump failure (THP) — severity high, cost €600–1.200, onset 70.000 km
- Turbo oil-feed line coking and turbo bearing damage — severity moderate
- Carbon buildup on intake valves — severity moderate, cost €400–900, onset 50.000 km
This is the first-generation turbo Prince. The revised second generation (EP6CDT and later, MINI N18, from about 2010) is rated separately at 63/100 — better, but still CAUTION.
Full EP6/THP (Prince) report →
EA211 1.4 TSI — 78/100 (BUY)
Found in: A3, Fabia, Golf, Golf 1.4 TSI, Ibiza, Leon, Leon 1.4 TSI, Octavia
Key issues
- Timing belt — mandatory replacement — severity high, cost €700, onset 60.000 km
- Cylinder deactivation shudder (software) — severity minor, cost €150, onset N/A
Verdict: EA211 1.4 TSI wins by 38 points
The EA211 1.4 TSI scores 78/100 vs the EP6/THP (Prince)'s 40/100 — a 38-point difference. This is a significant gap. The EA211 1.4 TSI is clearly the safer choice.
Which one should you buy?
The EA211 1.4 TSI is the significantly safer choice. The EP6/THP's timing chain, oil consumption, and thermostat problems make it one of the most problematic engines in modern European cars. If you're shopping a 308 vs a Golf, the engine is the single biggest reason to choose the Golf.
Generated from EngineScope's reliability database. Reviewed by the editorial team. Methodology →