The Audi BVG is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2012. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end pull for daily driving and motorway efficiency.
Fitted to models including the A3 (8P), A4 (B7/B8), and A6 (C6), the BVG engine was engineered for balanced performance and fuel economy in compact and mid-size Audi sedans and hatchbacks. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), meeting Euro 4 standards for early builds and Euro 5 for post-2010 variants depending on market.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly under sustained high-load conditions. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Bulletin 2011-03-07, is linked to fuel quality sensitivity and inadequate lubrication in early CP3-based systems. From 2010 onward, revised pump calibration and updated fuel filtration were implemented to improve durability.

Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2012 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi BVG is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size applications (2008–2012). It combines common-rail direct injection with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards, it balances real-world drivability with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,500–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP3 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (2010–2012) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted, non-interference) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-03 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The BVG's VGT turbo provides strong low-end torque ideal for urban driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Audi Longlife-03 (5W-30) to maintain HPFP and EGR system longevity. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) is essential to prevent high-pressure pump wear. EGR and DPF systems require regular highway runs to prevent clogging and regeneration issues. Post-2010 models benefit from revised fuel pump firmware and improved filtration. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce soot accumulation in the intake tract.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-03 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2011-03-07). Supersedes ACEA B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 applies to 2008–2009 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 5 compliance confirmed for 2010–2012 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output consistent across EU markets with EN 590 fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A33010).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32001, A32500, A32800, SIB 2011-03-07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi BVG was used across Audi's 8P/B7/B8 platforms with transverse mounting in front-wheel-drive configurations. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—shorter intake manifolds in the A3 and revised cooling routing in the A4—and from 2010 the B8 A4 facelift adopted updated emissions calibration, creating partial interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A32800). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for BVG series). Pre-2010 models have a silver valve cover with a black timing cover; post-2010 units use an all-black cover. Critical differentiation from EA189: BVG has a front-mounted timing chain with a single VGT turbo, while EA189 uses a rear chain and different ECU placement. Service parts require production date verification—fuel pumps before 06/2010 are incompatible with later firmware versions (Audi SIB 2011-03-07).
The BVG's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles using non-compliant diesel fuel. Internal Audi quality reports from 2012 indicated a significant share of pre-2010 units required HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links EGR clogging to frequent urban driving. Extended idling and low-quality fuel exacerbate pump and EGR degradation, making fuel quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2008–2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BVG.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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