The company assembled and installed the 1.7-liter VW AKU or 1.7 SDI diesel engine in a number of small models between 1997 and 2005, such as the Polo, Lupo, and similar Seat Arosa. The second generation Caddy had a similar power unit, despite being below the AHB index.

Other models in the EA180 series are 1Z, AFN, AHF, AHU, ALH, AVG, AKU, and AEY.
Specifications
| Production years | 1997-2005 |
| Displacement, cc | 1716 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 60 |
| Torque output, Nm | 115 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 79.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 86.4 |
| Compression ratio | 19.5 |
| Features | SOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.7 |
| Fuel type | diesel |
| Euro standards | EURO 2/3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Volkswagen Polo 1999) — city — highway — combined |
5.9 3.6 4.4 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~400 000 |
The engine was installed on:
- Seat Arosa 1 (6H) in 1997 – 2003;
- Volkswagen Polo 3 (6N) in 1997 – 2001;
- Volkswagen Lupo 1 (6X) in 1998 – 2005.
Disadvantages of the VW AKU engine
This diesel engine stands out for its phlegmatic nature as well as its exceptional resource and endurance;
The failure of the temperature sensor may cause the engine to start poorly in the winter;
A clogged EGR valve is typically the cause of traction issues and floating engine speeds.
An injection sensor on one of these nozzles frequently breaks the winding;
The Bosch VP37 injection pump’s malfunctions are linked to the unit’s remaining issues.
