Volkswagen’s oddball narrow-angle V6 has been given a gallows reprieve and is about to embark on a new life as a twin-turbo heavy-hitter.
The engine, which began life with the VR6 three generations and more than a decade ago, has lost favour and purpose as the 2.0-litre turbocharged four has taken root in the Golf R engine bay.
However, Volkswagen sources say new engine development managers are pushing hard to refocus the aging powerplant as a twin-turbo figurehead.
“It is being pushed really hard internally. Obviously its life as an atmo engine is finished, but it is a very strong candidate for turbocharging.
“Once we develop it with two turbochargers, there are so many new opportunities to use that engine.
“Turbocharging will give it lower emissions and consumption but it will be strong enough to fit into everything up to the Toaureg,” a source insisted.
The V6, with a vee angle so narrow at 15 degrees that both banks can share the same cylinder-head, will be the flagship powerplant for transverse applications.
Our sources say that it will power everything from the next Passat to the Tiguan, as well as commercial vans and even in a hot-shot version of the upcoming MQB-based Scirocco.
Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Don't forget to register to comment on this article.