What is the difference between 280tsi and 330tsi?

[EllaLynn]

Here are the differences in maximum torque between 280tsi and 330tsi. Below is an introduction to 280tsi and 330tsi: 280tsi: Equipped with a 1.4-liter turbocharged direct-injection engine codenamed EA211. This engine has a maximum power of 110kw, a maximum torque of 250 Nm, a maximum power speed of 5000 to 6000 rpm, and a maximum torque speed of 1750 to 3000 rpm. 330tsi: Equipped with a low-power 2.0-liter turbocharged engine codenamed EA888. This engine has a maximum power of 137kw, a maximum torque of 320 Nm, a maximum power speed of 5000 rpm, and a maximum torque speed of 1600 to 4000 rpm.

[DelCali]

280TSI and 330TSI are both Volkswagen's powertrain designations, with the main difference lying in engine performance. The 280TSI typically refers to a 1.4T turbocharged engine with a maximum power output of 110-115 kW, while the 330TSI uses a lower-powered version of the 2.0T engine, delivering around 137 kW. The most noticeable difference in actual driving is the variation in acceleration thrust—the 330TSI feels significantly more effortless during highway overtaking or steep hill climbs. The transmission configurations also differ: many 280TSI models are paired with dry dual-clutch transmissions, whereas the 330TSI uses wet dual-clutch systems, offering improved durability. In terms of fuel consumption, the difference is minimal in city driving—the 280TSI averages around 6-7 liters per 100 km, while the 330TSI ranges between 6.5-8 liters. However, on highways, the 330TSI is actually more fuel-efficient. Having test-driven both variants of the Tiguan L, I found the 330TSI provides more ample power reserves even when fully loaded with five passengers and air conditioning running.

[DeAbel]

The key difference boils down to the driving experience shaped by their engine displacements. The 280TSI packs a 1.4L engine - think of it like a power-walking fitness trainer, adequate but with limited explosive power. The 330TSI's 2.0L heart, however, accelerates like a jogger suddenly sprinting. In daily city driving, you might not notice much difference, but when climbing hills fully loaded or overtaking on highways, the gap becomes obvious. Having driven both in the older Passat models, I noticed the 330TSI's revs climb noticeably faster when flooring the accelerator, with a deeper, more authoritative engine roar. Maintenance costs are similar, but the 330TSI does drink slightly more fuel - that's the displacement trade-off. Your choice ultimately depends on whether you frequently tackle long-distance mountain routes.

[SanGabriella]

The numerical values clearly illustrate the horsepower difference. The 280TSI offers around 150 horsepower, while the 330TSI jumps directly to 186 horsepower—equivalent to adding the power of a microcar. The torque output of the 330 is over 50 Nm higher than the 280, making a noticeable difference in uphill acceleration. However, in city driving, the difference is negligible—both can easily keep up from traffic light starts. The most significant contrast is under heavy load, such as a family trip with full luggage and mountain roads—the 330 can effortlessly overtake when the 280 struggles. Fuel consumption is actually quite similar, with the 330 consuming just half a liter more per 100 km. In terms of transmission refinement, the 330 generally feels smoother. If you're sensitive to power, go for the 330; if you want to save money, the 280 is more than sufficient.