The Volkswagen BKK is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2010. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake cam, and direct fuel injection (TSI), delivering a responsive blend of power and efficiency. Output is rated at 90 kW (122 PS), with peak torque of 200 Nm available from just 1,500 rpm.
Fitted primarily to the Polo Mk5 (9N) and Ibiza Mk4 (6J), the BKK was engineered for agile city driving and relaxed highway cruising. Emissions compliance for all units was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and secondary air injection, enabling adherence to Euro 4 standards, with some variants meeting Euro 5 requirements in specific markets.
A documented concern involves potential carbon buildup on the intake valves, a common trait of early direct-injection engines. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen Technical Service Bulletin 2031088/2, can lead to rough idle and reduced performance over time. No major mid-cycle hardware revisions were implemented for this short-production engine.
Volkswagen
Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010 models may have Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Volkswagen BKK is a 1,390 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engineered for supermini applications (2008-2010). It combines gasoline direct injection (TSI) with a small turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and brisk acceleration. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and some market‑specific Euro 5) standards, it offers a sporty character in a compact package.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 75.6 mm | |
| Power output | 90 kW (122 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (TSI), Bosch MED17.5 ECU | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre‑2010); Euro 5 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo (IHI or Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven (maintenance-free) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 109 kg |
The small turbo provides immediate throttle response and strong low-RPM torque, ideal for urban environments. Being a chain-driven engine, it eliminates the timing belt replacement cost. However, the direct injection system is prone to intake valve carbon buildup, necessitating periodic cleaning (every 60,000–80,000 km) to maintain performance. Using premium 95 RON (or higher) fuel is recommended for optimal performance and injector longevity. The engine is generally robust if basic maintenance is followed.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 (5W-40) specification (Volkswagen SSP 823). Longlife service intervals require 504 00.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2010 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). 2010 models meet Euro 5 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across all model years (Volkswagen Group PT-2018).
Volkswagen Self-Study Programme (SSP): 823
Volkswagen Technical Service Bulletin (TSB): 2031088/2
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
The Volkswagen BKK was used across Volkswagen's A0 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific ECU calibrations for the Polo and SEAT Ibiza, but no major hardware changes were made during its production run. 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 823). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code ('K' for BKK series). Visually, the engine features a black plastic camshaft cover with 'TSI' branding. Critical differentiation from the similar BMY engine: BKK has a lower power output (122 PS vs. 150 PS for BMY) and different turbocharger and ECU mapping. Service parts are generally interchangeable within the same model year.
The BKK's primary reliability consideration is intake valve carbon buildup, a common trait of early direct-injection petrol engines. Internal Volkswagen data indicates this is a maintenance issue rather than a catastrophic failure, while UK DVSA records show no significant correlation with MOT failures. Regular cleaning intervals make long-term ownership straightforward.
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 BKK.
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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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