The Aston Martin B48B20 is a 1,998 cc, turbocharged inline-four petrol engine produced between 2019 and 2023. Originally developed by BMW, it features a DOHC 16-valve configuration, direct fuel injection, and a single twin-scroll turbocharger. In standard tune, it produces 225 kW (306 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, with enhanced output in tuned variants. The engine features Valvetronic variable valve lift and Double-VANOS variable cam timing for optimal efficiency and responsiveness.
Fitted to the DBX and early Vantage models during a transitional phase, the B48B20 was engineered for responsive performance and packaging efficiency. Its integration into Aston Martin’s VH and ML3 platforms includes bespoke engine mounts and exhaust tuning. Emissions compliance is achieved through gasoline particulate filters (GPF), precise fuel metering, and advanced ECU mapping, allowing the engine to meet Euro 6d standards across all markets.
One documented update is the transition from Bosch ME17.2.9 to Bosch MD17.2.11 ECU in mid-2021, improving throttle response and cold-start emissions (Aston Martin Engineering Bulletin B48-21-002). Additionally, early DBX models exhibited intermittent high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures under sustained high load. From 2020, revised pump calibration and cooling ducting per Service Information Bulletin B48-SIB-20-003 were implemented to enhance durability.
All B48B20-powered vehicles comply with Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8765).
The Aston Martin B48B20 is a 1,998 cc turbocharged inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact performance applications (2019–2023). It features an aluminum block, DOHC 16-valve heads, and a single twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and efficient power delivery. Sourced from BMW but integrated with Aston Martin-specific calibration and ancillaries, it meets Euro 6d standards while supporting GPF integration.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 225 kW (306 PS) | |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1,550–4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection, Bosch MD17.2.11 ECU | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, dual-circuit | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll, ball-bearing (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (dual overhead camshafts) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-04 (Aston Martin Specification WSS-M2C948-A1) | |
| Dry weight | 161 kg |
The turbocharged B48B20 provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for daily driving, but demands strict adherence to 12,000 km oil change intervals using BMW Longlife-04 (WSS-M2C948-A1) to maintain chain and turbo longevity. The engine's BMW heritage ensures parts commonality with select B48 applications, though intake, exhaust, and ECU tuning are model-specific. Early models (pre-2020) may experience HPFP failures under sustained high load; verify calibration and cooling per SIB B48-SIB-20-003 if misfires occur. Fuel quality is critical—premium unleaded (RON 98) is required to prevent knock and preserve performance. Cooling system maintenance is essential due to tight packaging; inspect water pump and thermostat during routine service.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-04 meeting Aston Martin WSS-M2C948-A1 (Aston Martin SIB B48-20-002). Formulated for high-pressure fuel and chain systems.
Emissions: All B48B20 engines comply with Euro 6d (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8765), verified through WLTP testing protocols.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 225 kW output requires RON 98 fuel and precise ignition mapping (Aston Martin TIS Doc. B48-ECU-013).
Aston Martin Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B48-ENG-001, B48-ENG-002, SIB B48-SIB-20-003
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8765)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Aston Martin B48B20 was used across Aston Martin's VH and ML3 platforms with longitudinal mounting and sourced from BMW as part of the B48 family. This engine received model-specific calibrations-intake tuning in the Vantage and revised exhaust manifolds in the DBX-and from 2021 the DBX adopted the B48B20 HP variant with higher boost and revised cam profiles, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine serial number stamped on the right-hand side of the engine block near the front cover (Aston Martin TIS B48-ID-001). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for B48 series). All units have black cam covers with 'BMW' and 'Aston Martin' badging due to shared development. Critical differentiation from BMW B48: B48B20 features Aston Martin-specific intake manifolds, throttle bodies, and ECU calibration. Service parts require model-year verification—HPFP units for pre-2020 DBX models are incompatible with post-2020 units due to calibration upgrade per SIB B48-SIB-20-003.
The B48B20's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure on pre-2020 DBX units, with elevated incidence during sustained high-load operation. Internal Aston Martin service reports from 2020 indicated intermittent misfires in early builds, while UK DVSA records show related fault codes contributing to emissions-related MOT failures. Aggressive driving and infrequent inspections increase risk, making use of revised calibration and cooling ducting critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2019-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ASTON-MARTIN B48B20.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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