VR6 3.6 vs 1.8 NA

Side-by-side reliability comparison

Higher reliability score
1.8 NA BUY 80/100
+10 points over VR6 3.6
0 / 100
ACCEPTABLE VR6 3.6 Volkswagen
0 / 100
BUY 1.8 NA Volkswagen

Specifications

VR6 3.6
1.8 NA
Brand
Volkswagen
Volkswagen
Verdict
ACCEPTABLE
BUY
Reliability
70
80
Years
2005--2016
1991--2000
Displacement
3597 cc
1781 cc
Layout
VR6
I4
Type
Petrol Na
Petrol Na
Power
280--300 hp
90 hp
Known Issues
1
1
Total Risk Cost
€500--€1,500
€200--€400

Character

VR6 3.6

"Passat R36, Touareg, Eos. Largest VR6. Chain driven. Timing chain guides. Oil consumption. Less characterful than 3.2 but more torque. Good long-distance cruiser."

1.8 NA

"Golf III/IV, Passat B4. Simple 8V NA. Hydraulic lifters. Timing belt (interference). Oil leaks. Nearly unbreakable with basic maintenance. One of VW's most reliable engines."

Issues Comparison

VR6 3.6 1

● MODERATE
Timing chain guide wear €500--€1,500 150,000 km--250,000 km

1.8 NA 1

▲ HIGH
Timing belt (interference) €200--€400 60,000 km--90,000 km

Models

VR6 3.6 4

Touareg 7L 2006--2010 Q7 4L 2006--2010 Passat B6 (3C) 2007--2010 Superb 3T 2008--2015

1.8 NA 1

Golf Mk3 (1H) 1991--1997
Full VR6 3.6 Report Full 1.8 NA Report