The Volkswagen AVG is a 1,896 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2005 and 2008. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 16 valves. This engine employs common rail direct injection and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), delivering 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end pull for its class.
Fitted to models such as the Mk5 Golf, Jetta, and Eos, the AVG was engineered for a balance of fuel efficiency, refinement, and responsive performance. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), aligning with Euro 4 standards.
One documented concern is potential failure of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), which can lead to a no-start condition or severe power loss. This issue, addressed in Volkswagen service documentation, is often linked to fuel lubricity or contamination. Replacement of the pump and associated fuel lines is the prescribed corrective action.
Volkswagen
Production years 2005–2008 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Volkswagen AVG is a 1,896 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid‑size hatchbacks/saloons (2005-2008). It combines common rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-rpm torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it offers a blend of performance and economy for its generation.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,896 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.5 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP3 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | VW 505 01 / 507 00 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for overtaking and motorway cruising but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo and injector wear. VW 505 01/507 00 oil (5W-30) is critical for DPF compatibility and HPFP longevity. The timing belt is an interference design; failure causes catastrophic engine damage. The high-pressure fuel pump is a known failure point; using high-quality, low-sulfur diesel is essential. EGR valves require periodic cleaning to maintain performance.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 505 01 / 507 00 specification (Owner's Manual). Compatible with ACEA C3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all production years (2005–2008) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across model applications (Volkswagen SSP 345).
Volkswagen Service Technical Information (SSP 345)
Volkswagen ETKA Parts Catalogue
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
The Volkswagen AVG was used across Volkswagen's Mk5 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU and ancillary updates throughout its production run, but no major facelift revisions that create significant interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat surface of the cylinder block, adjacent to the gearbox flange (Volkswagen SSP 345). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code for Volkswagen Group vehicles. Visually, the AVG can be identified by its black plastic intake manifold and the "2.0 TDI" badge on the engine cover. Critical differentiation from the earlier ALH/PD engines: AVG uses common rail injection, not unit injectors. Service parts like the high-pressure fuel pump (part no. 03L 127 025) are specific to this engine variant.
The AVG's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using poor-quality fuel. Internal Volkswagen service data indicates a notable failure rate before 150,000 km, while timing belt neglect remains a critical, albeit less frequent, cause of catastrophic engine damage. Adherence to the maintenance schedule and use of premium diesel make proactive HPFP inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2005-2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN AVG.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VOLKSWAGEN or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
VOLKSWAGEN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLKSWAGEN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
