The Volkswagen Cross Touran I 1.9 TDI (105 hp) was a variant of the first-generation Cross Touran, produced between 2007 and 2010. Positioned as a practical and versatile family vehicle, the Cross Touran aimed to bridge the gap between a traditional minivan and a compact SUV, offering increased ground clearance and rugged styling cues compared to the standard Touran. This specific 1.9 TDI engine and transmission combination represented a mid-range offering within the Cross Touran lineup, prioritizing fuel efficiency and reasonable performance over outright speed. It was primarily sold in European markets, where diesel engines were – and continue to be – highly popular due to favorable taxation and fuel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Touran |
| Generation | Cross Touran I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 TDI (105 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.7 kg/Hp, 68.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 162.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 55.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1900 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA188 / BLS |
| Engine displacement | 1896 cm3 (115.7 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 19:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Pump-nozzle (Unit Injector) |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1541 kg (3397.32 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2170 kg (4784.03 lbs.) |
| Max load | 629 kg (1386.71 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 695 l (24.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1989 l (70.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4407 mm (173.5 in.) |
| Width | 1799 mm (70.83 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2047 mm (80.59 in.) |
| Height | 1670 mm (65.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2677 mm (105.39 in.) |
| Front track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1531 mm (60.28 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
INTRODUCTION
The Volkswagen Cross Touran I, launched in 2007, was a derivative of the standard Touran MPV, designed to appeal to buyers seeking a more adventurous and rugged-looking vehicle. The “Cross” designation signified increased ride height, reinforced bumpers, and the availability of all-wheel drive on some models. The 1.9 TDI (105 hp) variant, powered by the EA188 BLS engine, occupied a crucial position in the lineup. It was aimed at buyers who prioritized fuel economy and practicality over outright performance, making it a popular choice for families and those covering long distances. This engine and trim level was a common sight in Europe, where diesel-powered MPVs were – and remain – a staple of the automotive landscape.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cross Touran I 1.9 TDI was the EA188 engine family, specifically the BLS code. This 1.9-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine utilized a pump-nozzle (unit injector) fuel injection system, a technology known for its precision and efficiency. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. A turbocharger with an intercooler was employed to boost power output and improve torque delivery. The 105 horsepower peak was achieved at 4000 rpm, while the 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque was available from a low 1900 rpm, providing good pulling power for everyday driving. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The transmission was a 6-speed manual, offering a good balance between fuel economy and driver control. While an automatic transmission was available on other Cross Touran models, it wasn’t typically paired with this specific 1.9 TDI engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.9 TDI 105 hp engine in the Cross Touran provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.8 seconds, and the top speed was 175 km/h (108.74 mph). The engine’s strength lay in its mid-range torque, making it well-suited for overtaking and maintaining speed on highways. The 6-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TDI variants, the 1.9 TDI felt noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. However, it offered a smoother and more refined driving experience than the higher-output engines, with less engine noise and vibration. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, prioritizing economy over rapid acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cross Touran I 1.9 TDI typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and front airbags were also standard. The interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a sunroof, parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system. The Cross Touran’s interior was generally well-built and practical, with plenty of storage compartments and a flexible seating arrangement. The dashboard layout was typical of Volkswagen vehicles from that era, with a clear and easy-to-read instrument cluster.
Chassis & Braking
The Cross Touran I featured an independent suspension setup on both the front and rear axles. The front suspension utilized McPherson struts with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed a multi-link system, also with a stabilizer bar. This suspension configuration provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear wheels. ABS was standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. The increased ride height of the Cross Touran, compared to the standard Touran, provided slightly improved off-road capability, although it was still primarily designed for on-road use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volkswagen Cross Touran I 1.9 TDI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted that the 1.9 TDI engine lacked the power and refinement of the more expensive 2.0 TDI variants. Compared to the 2.0 TDI, the 1.9 TDI offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. It was also generally more affordable to maintain, due to the simpler engine design. The Cross Touran, as a whole, was seen as a versatile and well-rounded vehicle, offering a compelling alternative to traditional MPVs and compact SUVs.
Legacy
The 1.9 TDI engine, in various iterations, proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant. While not without its potential issues (such as turbocharger wear and injector problems), the engine generally offered good longevity with proper maintenance. Today, the Cross Touran I 1.9 TDI can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. It remains a practical and economical choice for buyers seeking a spacious and versatile family vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of the age of the vehicle and the potential for maintenance issues associated with older diesel engines. The BLS engine, while robust, benefits from regular servicing and attention to detail to ensure continued reliability.
