It was developed specifically for transverse engine installations and FWD (front-wheel drive) vehicles.

Without compensation, these varying port lengths would result in the two banks of cylinders producing different amounts of power at a particular engine RPM.

It had a bore of 81.0 mm (3.19 in) and a stroke of 90.3 millimetres (3.56 in), for a total displacement of 2.8 L (171 cu in).

In 1994, a 2.9 L (177 cu in) ABV version was introduced in some European countries, with an increased bore of 82.0 mm (3.23 in).

Since the two rows of pistons and cylinders share a single cylinder head and head gasket, the piston crown (or top surface) is tilted.

The 2.8 litre version was also used in the 1996–2003 Mercedes-Benz Vito (W638) commercial vans, where it was designated M104.900.

A 3.2 L (195 cu in) EA390 version of the 4 valve engine was introduced in the 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle RSi model.

The engine size was again increased in 2005, when a 3.6 L (220 cu in) version with gasoline direct injection (FSI) was introduced in the Volkswagen Passat (B6).

This BLV version uses a narrower 10.6 degree angle between the cylinder banks and produces 206 kW (276 hp).

A 3.2 L (195 cu in) AXZ version producing 184 kW (247 hp) was introduced in 2006.

[12] In 2008, an uprated BWS version of the 3.6 litre engine producing 220 kW (295 hp) was introduced in the Volkswagen Passat (B6) R36 model.

Volkswagen Group automobiles: Other manufacturers: Volkswagen Group has produced several W engines based on combining two VR engines on a common crankshaft.