The Volkswagen Cross Touran I (facelift, 2010) TGI 1.4 TSI (150 hp) DSG BlueMotion represents a unique offering within the broader Touran range, produced from 2010 to 2015. Positioned as a versatile and relatively efficient option, this variant combined a turbocharged and supercharged 1.4-liter gasoline engine with the flexibility of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) capability, paired with Volkswagen’s dual-clutch DSG automatic transmission. It built upon the foundation of the A5 platform (internally designated 1HX0 for the first generation Touran), offering a slightly more rugged aesthetic and increased ground clearance compared to the standard Touran, appealing to buyers seeking a practical family vehicle with a touch of adventure. The “BlueMotion” designation indicated Volkswagen’s efforts to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions through various technological enhancements.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Touran |
| Generation | Cross Touran I (facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | TGI 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) DSG BlueMotion |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 133 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 | 11.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CDGA |
| 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 | 1752 kg (3862.5 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2240 kg (4938.35 lbs.) |
| Max load | 488 kg (1075.86 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 592 l (20.91 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1886 l (66.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 11 l (2.91 US gal | 2.42 UK gal) |
| Length | 4406 mm (173.46 in.) |
| Width | 1799 mm (70.83 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.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission DSG |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Cross Touran TGI lies the CDGA engine code, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine is notable for its combination of a turbocharger and a supercharger – a configuration Volkswagen termed “Twincharger.” The supercharger provides immediate boost at low engine speeds, eliminating turbo lag, while the turbocharger takes over at higher RPMs for sustained power delivery. Direct fuel injection further enhances efficiency and performance. The engine produces 150 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4500 rpm. The TGI designation signifies its capability to run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in addition to gasoline, offering a lower-emission alternative. The 7-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission provides quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The DSG utilizes two separate clutches for odd and even gears, allowing for pre-selection of the next gear and seamless shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 TSI with the DSG transmission in the Cross Touran offered a balanced driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The combined supercharger and turbocharger setup minimized turbo lag, resulting in responsive acceleration. The DSG transmission shifted quickly and efficiently, enhancing the overall driving feel. Compared to the 1.6-liter gasoline or diesel variants, the 1.4 TSI offered noticeably more power. However, it didn’t match the performance of the more powerful 2.0-liter TDI diesel or the larger gasoline engines available in the Touran range. The automatic transmission, while convenient, didn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as a manual gearbox. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of fuel efficiency and usability, prioritizing smooth operation over outright acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cross Touran, even in its base trim with the 1.4 TSI engine, typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, and a basic audio system. The “BlueMotion” package added aerodynamic enhancements and optimized engine management for improved fuel economy. Higher trim levels offered options like alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with navigation, parking sensors, and upgraded interior upholstery. Interior materials were generally durable and practical, reflecting the vehicle’s family-oriented nature. The Cross Touran’s exterior styling featured plastic cladding around the wheel arches and lower body panels, giving it a more rugged appearance compared to the standard Touran.
Chassis & Braking
The Cross Touran featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The increased ground clearance of the Cross Touran, compared to the standard Touran, allowed for better performance on unpaved roads. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes at the front and typically drum brakes at the rear, although some higher-spec models featured disc brakes all around. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard equipment. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cross Touran TGI 1.4 TSI DSG BlueMotion was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and efficient family vehicle. The CNG capability was seen as a significant advantage in markets where natural gas was readily available and affordable. Fuel economy was competitive, particularly when running on CNG. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.4 TSI offered a quieter and smoother driving experience, but lacked the diesel’s low-end torque. The DSG transmission was praised for its responsiveness, but some owners reported occasional reliability issues.
Legacy
The 1.4 TSI engine, particularly in its Twincharger configuration, proved to be a relatively reliable powerplant, although preventative maintenance, especially regarding the timing chain, is crucial. The DSG transmission, while generally robust, can require servicing to ensure long-term reliability. Today, the Cross Touran TGI 1.4 TSI DSG BlueMotion represents an interesting option in the used car market for buyers seeking a versatile and fuel-efficient family vehicle. Its CNG capability remains a unique selling point, and its overall practicality and comfort continue to appeal to a wide range of drivers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with the DSG transmission and the importance of regular servicing.
