Volkswagen planning cylinder deactivation technology for 1.4 TSI engine: rumour

Volkswagen Group only recently introduced the technology to the new 2012 Audi S6, S7 and S8 ranges, but reports say Volkswagen is also looking to develop the system for the upcoming new Mk7 Volkswagen Golf. The technology is reportedly being developed for the 1.4 TSI models - currently available on the Australian-specified Volkswagen Golf 90TSI range and the Skoda Octavia 90TSI range.

The system would cut down cylinder operation from firing four pistons to just two, effectively making it similar to the Fiat 500 TwinAir two-cylinder engine. Deactivation would only kick in when the engine is under less load, such as in highway cruising. A potential rev range for the deactivation's operation is said to be from 1400rpm to 4000rpm.

If the technology does eventuate on the 1.4 TSI, it's expected to bring overall consumption and emission figures down considerably. Like the system on the Audi models, the on-board computer would measure various characteristics such as throttle position, the car's features and accessories being used at the time, and the load on the engine before the deactivation would engage.

It is all still a bit of a rumour at this stage, so we'll have to wait and see to know for sure. What do you think? It is a technology you'd like to see expanded beyond the usual V8 applications?