The End of the VR6 Engine: A Volkswagen Icon

The year of 2024 will be remembered as a milestone in the automotive industry, especially for Volkswagen fans. After 34 years old history, the German automaker announced the end of production of the engine VR6, an engineering gem that left its mark on iconic models such as Golf, Passat, Jetta and even in the rebirth of beetle. With 1.87 million units produced, this revolutionary engine has also found its place in vehicles from other brands, such as the Porsche Cayenne, the van Mercedes-Benz Vito and even trailers of Winnebago.

But what makes the VR6 engine so special? Let’s explore its history, technical characteristics and impact on the market, as well as reflect on the legacy it leaves behind.

A Compact Revolution: The Origin of the VR6

Developed in 1990, the engine VR6 was inspired by pioneering concepts from the Italian Lancia, but with a unique approach that combined the advantages of in-line and V engines. Its name derives from the “V”, which represents the V arrangement of the cylinders, and the “R”, from “Reihenmotor” (in-line engine, in German). This innovative architecture presented a 15 degree angle between the cylinder banks, an extremely compact design that allowed its application in smaller vehicles without compromising performance.

Unlike traditional V engines, which have angles between 45 and 90 degrees, the VR6 managed to combine the cylinders into a single block, saving space and reducing production costs. This clever solution made the VR6 an ideal choice for front wheel drive models and vehicles that required power without sacrificing practicality.

Memorable Applications: From Passat to Porsche Cayenne

The VR6 engine made its debut in the Volkswagen Passat B3, in 1991, and in the Corrado, a sports coupé that captured the imagination of enthusiasts. Since then, it has equipped high-performance or luxury versions of several Volkswagen models, such as:

• Golf GTI It is R32
• Passat (several generations)
• Jetta GLI
• New Beetle RSi
• Touareg, Atlas It is Talagon

In addition to Volkswagen cars, the VR6 also appeared in models from other brands in the group, such as Audi (TT, A3, Q7, Q6) and Porsche (Cayenne). Outside the group, it was used in the van Mercedes-Benz Vito and even in the minivan Ford Galaxy, showing its versatility.

Node New Beetle RSi, for example, the VR6 transformed the “modern Beetle” into a track machine with unique design and impressive performance. Already in Touareg and in Cayenne, it offered the perfect balance between power and refinement.

Technical Evolution: From 2.8 to Turbo 2.5 TSI

During its 34 years of production, the VR6 underwent several evolutions. The first version, launched with 2.8 liters It is 12 valves, delivered 174 hp. Over time, Volkswagen introduced technological advancements that increased engine power and efficiency. Here are some of the key specifications over the years:

• 2.8 12V: 174 hp
• 2.8 24V: 204 hp
• 2.9 12V: 190 hp (rare)
• 3.2 24V: 241 hp
• 3.6 24V: 299 hp

The latest variant, a VR6 2.5 TSI turbo, was developed specifically for the Chinese market, delivering impressive 299 hp. This was the only version of the VR6 equipped with a turbo, showing that the engine remained relevant even in its final years.

Derivatives and Variations: VR5, W12 and Bugatti Veyron

The success of the VR6 led Volkswagen to create variations based on the same concept. Among them, the following stand out:

• VR5: A five-cylinder engine, produced between 1997 and 2006.
• W12 It is W16: Based on the VR6 concept, but with even more complex configurations. The W16, for example, became famous for equipping the Bugatti Veyron, delivering more than 1,000 hp.

These variants proved that the VR6 design was flexible and capable of meeting a wide range of demands, from family sedans to supercars.

Why Did VR6 Come to an End?

Despite its legacy, the VR6 has faced increasing challenges in recent years. The auto industry is moving rapidly toward electrification and smaller turbocharged engines that offer superior efficiency and meet stringent emissions standards. In addition, the VR6 has become expensive to produce compared to more modern alternatives.

The last model to use the VR6 was the Volkswagen Talagon, a luxury SUV sold exclusively in China. In 2024, Volkswagen officially ended production of the engine, marking the end of an era.

The Legacy of VR6

For you, the car enthusiast, the end of the VR6 is a reminder of how the automotive industry is constantly evolving. This engine not only defined a generation of Volkswagen vehicles, but also showed that innovation can come from simple ideas, such as combining the best of both worlds: inline and V engines.

With more than 1.87 million units produced, the VR6 will be remembered as one of the most iconic engines in automotive history. It left its mark on classic models, thrilled drivers and proved that creative engineering can push the boundaries.

Final Reflection: A Look to the Future

Now, in 2024, as we say goodbye to the VR6, we are also invited to look to the future. Volkswagen is investing heavily in technologies electrical It is hybrids, with models such as the ID.4 and ID. Buzz leading the way. Although the VR6 is no longer in existence, its spirit of innovation lives on in the brand’s future projects.

And for those of you who are car fans, it is worth celebrating the legacy of the VR6. After all, it represents a time when power and emotion were essential ingredients of any automobile. If you still dream of driving a car equipped with this engine, perhaps it is time to look for a used model; they will certainly become collector's items, with prices that can exceed R$ 200 thousand, depending on the state of conservation.

The VR6 engine may have come to an end, but its story will be told for generations to come. And you, who are living through this transition between the past and the future, have the privilege of witnessing an important chapter in the automotive industry. Long live VR6!