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15°_VR6.gif
15° VR6 top view
60°_V6.gif
60° top view
VR6 is an engine configuration developed by the Volkswagen Group. It is similar to the V engine, but with the cylinders offset from each other and tilted by 15° instead of the usual 60°. The name, VR6 comes from a combination of Vee and the German word Reihenmotor. The combination of the two can be roughly translated as "in-line Vee."
The VR-6 was specifically designed for transverse installation in front wheel drive vehicles. By using the narrow 15° VR6 engine, it was possible to install a six-cylinder engine in existing Volkswagen models. A wider V6 engine of conventional design would have required lengthening existing vehicles to provide enough crumple zone between the front of the vehicle and the engine, and between the engine and the passenger cell.
The narrow angle between cylinder banks also allows just two camshafts to drive all of the valves, and a single cylinder head to be used. This simplifies engine construction and reduces costs.
Usage
The VR6 was used by Volkswagen in:
A new 280HP 3.6 L VR6 will be available in the next generation VW Passat. In addition, it is rumored that this engine will be used in a new high-performance Golf variant called the VW R36.
The 3.2 L version of the VR6 was also used by Audi in:
In addition, the 3.2 L VR6 will be available in the next generation Audi A3.
See Also
External Links
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