The Volkswagen BGU is a 1,968 cc, inline‑four turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and common rail direct injection. In standard form it delivered 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, engineered for a blend of efficiency and strong low-end pull.
Fitted primarily to the Mk5 Golf, Jetta, and Touran, the BGU engine was designed for drivers seeking fuel economy and relaxed motorway cruising. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), achieving Euro 4 standards.
One documented concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, which can lead to a complete loss of engine power. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen Group Service Bulletin 2025462/7, is often linked to fuel contamination or inadequate lubrication from low-quality diesel.
Volkswagen
Production years 2005–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Volkswagen BGU is a 1,968 cc inline‑four turbocharged diesel engineered for compact MPVs and sedans (2005-2010). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-rpm torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances everyday performance with fuel economy.
| 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 @ 1,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP3 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Variable geometry turbo (VGT) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (lower, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 507 00 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban and highway driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 507 00 specification to protect the turbo and fuel system. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards is critical to prevent high-pressure fuel pump failure. DPF regeneration cycles should not be interrupted; frequent short trips may require manual regeneration via diagnostic tool. EGR valve and cooler should be inspected for carbon buildup every 60,000 km. Fuel filter replacement at 60,000 km is mandatory to protect the CP3 pump.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 specification (Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2025462/7). ACEA C3 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2005–2010 BGU engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Power figures are for standard atmospheric conditions (Volkswagen Group PT-2010).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (ETKA/ELSA): Docs 03L 100 015, 2025462/7
Volkswagen Workshop Manual: Engine Code BGU (1968cc)
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)
The Volkswagen BGU was used across Volkswagen's Mk5 (1K) platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts for the Touran and a different air intake for the Jetta. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, just below the intake manifold (Volkswagen Workshop Manual). The 8th VIN digit for BGU-equipped vehicles is typically 'D'. The engine is visually identified by its black plastic intake manifold and the '2.0 TDI' badge on the engine cover. Critical differentiation from the later EA189 engines: The BGU uses a timing chain at the front of the engine (visible behind the crankshaft pulley) and a Bosch CP3 fuel pump, whereas EA189 engines use a timing belt and CP4 pump. Service parts, particularly for the turbocharger and injectors, are specific to the Pumpe Düse (PD) and early common-rail family and not interchangeable with later models.
The BGU's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using poor-quality fuel or exceeding service intervals. Volkswagen internal service data indicates a significant number of pumps required replacement before 150,000 km, while ancillary component failures like EGR valve clogging are also common. Extended oil change intervals and low-quality diesel exacerbate wear, making preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2008-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BGU.
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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)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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