The Volkswagen Cross Touran I 1.4 TSI (150 hp) EcoFuel DSG was a unique variant of the first-generation Cross Touran, produced between 2009 and 2010. Positioned as an environmentally conscious option within the Touran lineup, it combined a turbocharged and supercharged 1.4-liter gasoline engine with the capability to run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission. This model aimed to offer a balance between fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and practical family transport, primarily targeted at European markets where CNG infrastructure was more developed. It represented Volkswagen’s early foray into alternative fuel vehicles within the compact MPV segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Touran |
| Generation | Cross Touran I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) EcoFuel DSG |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (CNG) (NEDC) | 6 kg/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (CNG) (NEDC) | 4.1 kg/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (CNG) (NEDC) | 4.8 kg/100 km |
| CO2 emissions (CNG) (NEDC) | 130 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.2 kg/Hp, 89.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm, 131.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA111 / CDGA |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharging and Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1675 kg (3692.74 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2220 kg (4894.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 695 l (24.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1989 l (70.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 11 l (2.91 US gal | 2.42 UK gal) |
| CNG cylinder capacity | 24 kg |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 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 | 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 |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cross Touran I 1.4 TSI EcoFuel was the EA111 engine code, specifically the CDGA variant. This 1.4-liter inline-four engine employed a unique combination of technologies: both a turbocharger and a supercharger. The supercharger provided instant boost at low engine speeds, eliminating turbo lag, while the turbocharger took over at higher RPMs for sustained power delivery. Direct fuel injection and multi-port manifold injection further optimized combustion efficiency. The engine produced 150 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4500 rpm. The EcoFuel designation indicated the engine’s capability to run on CNG. When operating on CNG, the engine management system adjusted fuel delivery to suit the different fuel characteristics. The seven-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) provided quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 TSI EcoFuel DSG offered a surprisingly refined driving experience for a compact MPV. While not overtly sporty, the combined supercharger and turbocharger setup provided adequate acceleration, with a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 10.5 seconds. The DSG transmission ensured that the engine remained in its optimal power band, making overtaking maneuvers relatively effortless. Compared to the standard 1.6-liter gasoline version, the 1.4 TSI offered noticeably more power and torque. However, it didn’t match the performance of the higher-spec 2.0-liter TDI diesel models. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did slightly diminish the sense of driver engagement compared to the available manual gearbox options. The dual fuel capability meant that when running on CNG, power output was slightly reduced, but fuel costs were significantly lower.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cross Touran I 1.4 TSI EcoFuel DSG typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a multi-function steering wheel, and an infotainment system with a CD player. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were also standard. Optional extras included parking sensors, a sunroof, upgraded upholstery, and a navigation system. The “Cross” designation indicated a more rugged appearance package with plastic cladding around the wheel arches and sills, as well as slightly raised suspension for improved ground clearance. Interior trim levels varied, but generally featured durable cloth upholstery and a functional, family-oriented dashboard layout.
Chassis & Braking
The Cross Touran I utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. A transverse stabilizer bar was fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. The electric power steering offered light and precise steering feel. The slightly raised suspension of the “Cross” model, combined with the all-season tires (typically 215/50 R17 front and 235/45 R17 rear), provided improved capability on unpaved roads.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cross Touran I 1.4 TSI EcoFuel DSG was generally well-received by automotive critics, particularly for its innovative powertrain and fuel efficiency. The ability to run on CNG was seen as a significant advantage in countries with established CNG infrastructure. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the diesel-powered Tourans, the 1.4 TSI offered lower torque but a quieter and smoother engine note. Fuel economy on gasoline was comparable to other 1.4-liter TSI engines, but significantly improved when running on CNG. Reliability was generally good, although the complex engine technology required regular maintenance.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Cross Touran I 1.4 TSI EcoFuel DSG represents an early attempt by Volkswagen to offer a more sustainable and environmentally friendly MPV option. While production was limited to a relatively short period, the model demonstrated the potential of combining gasoline engines with alternative fuels like CNG. On the used car market, these models are relatively rare and tend to hold their value reasonably well, particularly among buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and unique vehicle. The EA111 engine, while known for its complexity, has proven to be reasonably durable with proper maintenance. The DSG transmission, however, requires regular fluid changes to ensure long-term reliability. Today, the Cross Touran I 1.4 TSI EcoFuel DSG serves as a reminder of Volkswagen’s early commitment to alternative fuel technology and its ongoing efforts to reduce emissions.
