Abstract: Multi-cylinder internal combustion engine having at least one cylinder row (10) with an intake side (10a) and an exhaust side (10b). The intake side includes an intake manifold (16), and the exhaust side includes at least one exhaust manifold (17) common to a group of cylinders (11-13). A charging unit (18) is connected by its pressure side to an intake air line opening into the intake manifold. The engine also has an arrangement for exhaust gas recirculation from the exhaust side of the engine to its intake side. The arrangement has a recirculation passage (15b, 20) which is arranged in the cylinder head(s) of the engine, for the respective group of cylinders and forms a connection between the exhaust manifold (17) and the intake side (10a). The passage can be opened and closed by a valve means (19).