
The new Bora is equipped with two engines, one is a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine, and the other is a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine. The following are the details about the two engines used in the new Bora: 1. The 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine has the model code EA211-DMB. This engine has a maximum power of 83 kW, a maximum torque of 145 Nm, a maximum power speed of 6000 rpm, and a maximum torque speed of 3900 rpm. 2. The 1.4-liter turbocharged engine has the model code EA211-DJS. This engine has a maximum power of 110 kW, a maximum torque of 250 Nm, a maximum power speed range of 5000 to 6000 rpm, and a maximum torque speed range of 1750 to 3000 rpm.

From the perspective of engine evolution, the Bora series did indeed have large-displacement versions. I particularly remember the 2008 Bora Classic being equipped with a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine, which was probably the largest displacement configuration in the Bora family. However, now in 2023, the new Bora models all feature small-displacement engines, with the largest being the 1.5L naturally aspirated EA211 series, along with optional 1.2T and 1.4T turbocharged variants. This change is mainly due to stricter environmental policies and Volkswagen's modular strategy. In fact, the current 1.5L version paired with a 6AT transmission is more fuel-efficient for daily driving compared to the old 2.0L model, and the power is sufficient, though it lacks some of the high-end torque characteristic of larger displacement engines.

As someone who frequently helps friends pick cars, I'm quite familiar with the Bora's engine displacement configurations. When it comes to the maximum displacement, we have to mention the older 2.0L version, though these used older models are relatively rare nowadays. The current Bora model available for sale has a maximum displacement of 1.5L naturally aspirated, with an actual displacement of 1498ml. Some might consider 2.0L as the standard for large displacement, but today's 1.5L engines, through optimized intake and exhaust systems, deliver a maximum power of 83kW, significantly outperforming same-displacement engines from a decade ago. Additionally, turbocharged versions can generate 250Nm of torque with even smaller displacements, so manufacturers naturally prefer not to continue producing large-displacement models.

When the Bora was first introduced in China, it indeed had a 2.0L version, which offered ample power reserves but also came with relatively high fuel consumption. Now, things are completely different. The latest Bora has a maximum displacement of only 1.5L, a change made by the manufacturer primarily to comply with the China VI emission standards. Although the displacement is smaller, the 1.5L automatic version is paired with an Aisin 6AT transmission, ensuring smooth driving in urban areas. I drove my friend's 1.5L Bora, and with the air conditioning on the entire time, it only consumed 6.8L per 100 kilometers. In contrast, the older 2.0L model would burn at least 2 liters more fuel under the same conditions. With car prices being so high nowadays, opting for a smaller displacement not only saves on purchase tax but also reduces overall vehicle operating costs.

A study of the Bora's engine lineage reveals that both the 1.8T and 2.0L were its historical large-displacement models. Particularly, the 2.0L version around 2005 used a cast-iron engine with 2 valves per cylinder—though technologically outdated, it was exceptionally durable. Contemporary Bora models all feature displacements no larger than 1.5L, equipped with all-aluminum engines incorporating DVVT technology. During my test drive, I paid special attention to the power response: the 1.5L engine starts off briskly and maintains composure even after exceeding 2000 RPM. For those prioritizing performance, the 1.4T variant is worth considering—despite its modest 1395ml displacement, its 150 horsepower significantly outperforms the older 2.0L's 115 horsepower.

Friends who are into classic cars would know that the most iconic engine displacement for the Bora was the 2.0L 8-valve unit in the 2003 model. But the new cars currently sold at 4S dealerships are completely different—the largest displacement now is the 1.5L naturally aspirated version. Last week when I visited the dealership, the salesperson mentioned that most Bora customers currently opt for either the 1.2T or 1.5L displacements, with fewer people choosing the 1.4T. In truth, the 1.5L is perfectly adequate for city commuting; even at 120km/h on the highway, the engine revs at just 2,500 RPM, and noise control is quite good. However, if you frequently drive fully loaded on mountain roads, you might still miss the instant responsiveness of the old 2.0L engine.


