EA288 1.4 TDI (CUSA/CUSB/CUTA) vs 2.3 V5
Side-by-side reliability comparison
Specifications
Character
EA288 1.4 TDI (CUSA/CUSB/CUTA)
"The three-cylinder common-rail 1.4 TDI of the EA288 family (2014-2018), 75-105 hp, in the VW Polo, Skoda Fabia III and Rapid, SEAT Ibiza and Audi A1. It replaced the 1.2 and 1.6 TDI in small cars and is not the older 1.4 TDI pump-injector engine. Economical, but the French press reported early problems: EGR valve and particulate filter clogging, dual-mass flywheel wear and water pump leaks; a few owners report engine failures without warning. Best for cars that do regular longer runs; check the service history and the coolant level."
2.3 V5
"VW 2.3 narrow-angle five-cylinder (VR5), a VR6 with one cylinder less, in the Golf IV, Bora, New Beetle, Passat B5 and SEAT Toledo. 150 hp 10-valve (AGZ) to 2001, then 170 hp 20-valve (AQN/AZX). Smooth and torquey but thirsty. Coil packs and the mass airflow sensor are the usual faults; the two timing chains sit at the gearbox end and are an engine-out job when they wear. Rare engine, few specialists."