The Volkswagen BHP is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbo‑charged petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake cam and direct fuel injection (FSI), delivering a balance of power and efficiency. Output is rated at 155 kW (211 PS) with torque peaking at 280 Nm.
Fitted to performance-oriented models such as the Mk6 Golf R and Scirocco R, the BHP was engineered for high-performance driving. It offered strong acceleration and a sporty exhaust note, appealing to driving enthusiasts. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel injection and catalytic conversion, meeting Euro 5 standards.
One documented concern is potential failure of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), which can lead to sudden loss of power or non-start conditions. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletin 2035712, is linked to internal component wear under sustained high pressure. Revised pump units and cam followers were introduced as countermeasures for affected production batches.
Volkswagen
Production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6792).
The Volkswagen BHP is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbo‑charged petrol engine engineered for hot hatches and performance coupes (2008-2015). It combines gasoline direct injection (FSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver responsive power and a broad torque curve. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances high performance with stringent emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 155 kW (211 PS) | |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1,800–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MED 9.5.10 FSI (Gasoline Direct Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT1446V or K03 (depending on variant) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 143 kg |
The turbocharged FSI system provides strong, linear power delivery but requires premium unleaded fuel (RON 98) for optimal performance and to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves. Strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals with VW 504 00 specification oil is critical to protect the high-pressure fuel pump cam follower and timing chain. Carbon cleaning of the intake manifold is recommended every 60,000-80,000 km. The revised cam follower (part no. 06F 109 153 D) and HPFP should be installed preventatively per VW STB 2035712. Ignition coil packs are known to fail intermittently, especially on higher-mileage engines.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). 504 00 is preferred for extended drain intervals and better HPFP protection.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2008-2015 BHP models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6792).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires 98 RON fuel (Volkswagen TIS 20G6).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 20G6, 20G7
Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletin (STB): 2035712
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6792)
The Volkswagen BHP was used across Volkswagen's A5/A6 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts and a larger intercooler in the Golf R and specific ECU mapping for the Scirocco R-and from 2010 minor ECU updates were implemented for emissions compliance, creating minor software interchange limits. 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, near the transmission flange (Volkswagen TIS 20G6). The 8th VIN digit for BHP-equipped vehicles is typically 'H'. Visually, the engine features a black plastic intake manifold with "FSI" branding and a centrally mounted throttle body. Critical differentiation from the BGJ engine: BHP is used exclusively in R-models and features specific ECU mapping and potentially a larger intercooler. The high-pressure fuel pump is mounted on the intake camshaft and driven by a dedicated lobe.
The BHP's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure due to cam follower wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles using lower-grade fuel or extended oil change intervals. Internal Volkswagen data indicated a significant number of failures before 100,000 km, while owner forums consistently report ignition coil failures. Adherence to fuel and oil specifications is critical to mitigate these risks.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2008-2015) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2012-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BHP.
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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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