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 | 45/100 | 78/100 |
| Verdict | AVOID | BUY |
| Type | 1.6L Turbo I4 | 1.4L TSI |
| Known issues | 2 | 2 |
EP6/THP (Prince) — 45/100 (AVOID)
Found in: 2008, 207, 208, 3008, 308, 308 1.6 THP, 407, 5008
Key issues
- Timing chain stretch (BMW-PSA joint engine) — severity high, cost €2.000, onset 60.000 km
- Carbon buildup on intake valves — severity moderate, cost €800, onset 50.000 km
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 33 points
The EA211 1.4 TSI scores 78/100 vs the EP6/THP (Prince)'s 45/100 — a 33-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 →