VW Rolls Out Miller Cycle Engine for Enhanced Efficiency

21^st century automakers are hell-bent in their quest to enhance the efficiency of their internal combustion engine. A strong proof is the recent launch of a meticulously engineered engine from Ford and a powerful camless engine from Qoros. To stay afloat of the competition, Volkswagen has joined the club by unveiling a 1.5L Miller Cycle engine, which is designed to enhance fuel consumption and increase low-down torque.

According to Volkswagen engineers, there are several enhancements that come courtesy of the enhanced thermodynamic efficiency associated with Miller Cycle engines. The German automaker says that an increase in the geometric compression ratio has enabled for enhanced efficiency in the load range most customers will use, while the final compression temperature has been lowered through early closing of the intake valve and the expansion cooling that brings.

With these enhancements, Volkswagen claims that its revolutionary engine offers peak torque from only 1,300 rpm, while also enhancing fuel economy by 1 l/100 km (235 US MPG) compared to the current 1.5-liter TSI engine.

Working together with these huge changes to the combustion cycle are several small changes that, when merged, contribute to the engine’s longevity and efficiency. On the engine’s 110 kW (148 hp) version, the cylinder lines are coated with an atmospheric plasma spray to reduce friction, enhance heat dissipation and enhance corrosion resistance.

Moreover, the cooling system of the engine has come under the microscope, and now will ensure that the water in the crankcase and engine stays inactive while the car is warming up. Volkswagen notes that apart from reducing the amount of time spent without the engine operating at ideal temperature, the system also helps warm the cabin more instantly on cold mornings.

Though it is typically fitted to high end, huge displacement engines, the automaker has even used cylinder deactivation to the new engine, enabling it to run as a two-cylinder under light loads. An escalating injection pressure 350 bar has enhanced the mixture formation in the engine, which must also result in lower particulate emissions.

The all-new four-cylinder engine is slated to hit dealerships later this year in 96 kW (129 hp) and 110 kW (148 hp) guises.