The Volkswagen Cross Touran I (facelift, 2010) 1.4 TSI 140 hp represents a specific iteration of Volkswagen’s popular compact minivan, positioned as a more rugged, adventure-oriented version of the standard Touran. Produced from 2010 to 2012, this variant aimed to bridge the gap between a conventional people carrier and a small SUV, offering increased ground clearance and protective body cladding. It was part of the first generation (1T1/1T2) Touran lineup, which itself was based on the Volkswagen Group’s A5 (PQ35) platform, shared with models like the fifth-generation Golf and the SEAT León. The 1.4 TSI 140 hp engine and six-speed manual transmission combination occupied a mid-range position within the Cross Touran’s engine options, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and acceptable performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Touran |
| Generation | Cross Touran I (facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (140 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 168 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 194 km/h (120.55 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 147.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1500 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CAVC, CTHC |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharging and Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1492 kg (3289.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2140 kg (4717.89 lbs.) |
| Max load | 648 kg (1428.6 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 | 4406 mm (173.46 in.) |
| Width | 1799 mm (70.83 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2081 mm (81.93 in.) |
| Height | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2677 mm (105.39 in.) |
| Front track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1531 mm (60.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 152 mm (5.98 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/50 R17; 235/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17; 8J x 17 |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cross Touran 1.4 TSI was the CAVC or CTHC engine code, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was notable for its combination of turbocharging and supercharging – a relatively uncommon setup. The supercharger provided immediate boost at low engine speeds, eliminating turbo lag, while the turbocharger took over at higher RPMs for sustained power delivery. Direct fuel injection further enhanced efficiency and performance. The engine produced 140 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque from as low as 1500 rpm. This engine was paired with a six-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, with a relatively tall sixth gear for highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 TSI 140 hp Cross Touran offered a reasonably sprightly driving experience for its class. Acceleration to 60 mph took around 9.3 seconds, and top speed was 120.55 mph. While not a performance vehicle, the engine’s torque delivery made it feel responsive in everyday driving situations. The supercharger-turbocharger combination minimized turbo lag, providing a smooth and linear power curve. Compared to the more powerful 1.8 TSI or 2.0 TDI variants, the 1.4 TSI felt less effortless when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. However, it offered superior fuel economy, making it a more economical choice for drivers prioritizing efficiency. The manual transmission provided a more engaging driving experience than the available DSG dual-clutch transmission, though it required more driver involvement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cross Touran, even in its 1.4 TSI guise, came reasonably well-equipped. Standard features typically included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a CD stereo system, and front and side airbags. The “Cross” designation added exterior styling elements like plastic body cladding, roof rails, and increased ride height. Interior trim levels varied, but generally featured cloth upholstery. Optional extras included a sunroof, parking sensors, a navigation system, and upgraded audio systems. The Cross Touran aimed for a slightly more premium feel than the standard Touran, with a focus on practicality and outdoor lifestyle appeal.
Chassis & Braking
The Cross Touran’s chassis was based on the standard Touran’s platform, but with modifications to accommodate the increased ride height and off-road styling. The suspension consisted of MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were typically solid discs, although some models featured rear drums depending on specification. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The increased ride height provided better ground clearance for navigating rough terrain, but it also resulted in a slightly higher center of gravity, impacting handling compared to the standard Touran.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cross Touran 1.4 TSI was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and versatile family vehicle. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the 1.4 TSI engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 1.8 TSI, the 1.4 TSI offered lower running costs but less outright performance. The 2.0 TDI diesel variants provided even better fuel economy and torque, but at a higher purchase price. The Cross Touran positioned itself as a niche offering, appealing to buyers who wanted a minivan with a more rugged appearance and a degree of off-road capability.
Legacy
The 1.4 TSI engine, in various iterations, proved to be a relatively reliable unit, although early versions were known for potential issues with timing chain wear. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing chain inspections, is crucial for long-term reliability. Today, the Cross Touran 1.4 TSI represents an affordable and practical used car option. Its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and relatively low running costs make it a good choice for families. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential timing chain issue and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained. The Cross Touran, as a whole, helped to popularize the concept of a crossover minivan, blending the practicality of a people carrier with the styling and capability of a small SUV.
