Could be any number of things. A friend of mine has an EOS with the same engine used in some of the Golf range. Apparently there is a problem with a part which helps to meet the stringent emissions requirements we have now. If this engine is used frequently for short journeys it causes the car to cut out, which is (allegedly) why they don't sell certain models in Jersey (or Guernsey) or somewhere. Mind you, he does make things up sometimes.....
If you run out of fuel this can dredge up gunk from the bottom of the tank and cause similar problems.
Fuck, the John Dory with Celeriac Puree is burning.