17:47 06-04-2026

Volkswagen ends 1.0 TSI engine era, shifts to larger powertrains and EVs

Volkswagen is discontinuing the 1.0 TSI three-cylinder engine by 2027, moving to 1.5 TSI with hybrid systems and electric vehicles like the ID. Polo.

Volkswagen is bringing the downsizing era to a close. The 1.0 TSI three-cylinder engine, a staple in mass-market models for over 15 years, is being phased out entirely. Starting in 2027, Volkswagen, SEAT, and Skoda vehicles will abandon this unit in favor of larger, more technologically advanced powertrains. The move is driven not only by stricter Euro 7 emissions regulations but also by the engine's inherent limitations.

While fuel-efficient, the 1.0 TSI was often criticized for its lack of pulling power under load and inconsistent real-world performance. In compact models, this resulted in a compromise that no longer satisfies manufacturers or customers.

Its replacement is the 1.5 TSI four-cylinder engine, which will become the standard for most models. This engine will be paired with a 48-volt MHEV system and serve as the foundation for hybrid setups. Power outputs will range from approximately 100 to 150 horsepower, with more potent versions utilizing the 2.0 TSI with hybrid assistance.

In parallel, Volkswagen is accelerating its shift to electric vehicles. The upcoming ID. Polo and ID. Cross are set to replace traditional gasoline models in the affordable car segment.

The discontinuation of the 1.0 TSI is more than just an engine swap; it signals the end of extreme downsizing and a market shift back toward a balance of efficiency, power, and genuine driving comfort.