The Volkswagen BMR is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features gasoline direct injection (TSI), a single turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form, it delivered 155 kW (211 PS), providing strong mid-range power for responsive everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Mk6 Golf GTI, Scirocco, and Eos, the BMR was engineered for spirited performance and refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel metering and catalytic conversion, allowing compliance with Euro 5 standards.
One documented concern is excessive oil consumption, particularly in higher-mileage units, as noted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2040310/5. This issue is often linked to wear in the piston ring lands or valve stem seals. Later revisions saw minor updates to the PCV system.
Volkswagen
Production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen BMR is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engineered for compact performance models (2008-2015). It combines gasoline direct injection with a single turbocharger to deliver responsive power and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances sporty performance with acceptable fuel economy.
| 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) @ 5,300–6,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1,700–5,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (FSI/TSI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo (IHI or BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 168 kg |
The turbocharged direct injection provides strong, linear power delivery but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 502 00/504 00 specification oil to prevent carbon buildup and excessive oil consumption. The timing chain is generally robust but requires periodic inspection of tensioners. High-quality 95 RON (EU) or 91 AKI (US) fuel is recommended for optimal performance and knock prevention. The high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) and injectors are sensitive to fuel quality; using Top Tier detergent fuel is advised. PCV system maintenance is critical to manage crankcase pressure and mitigate oil consumption issues documented in Service Bulletin 2040310/5.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2040310/5). ACEA A3/B4 is the minimum equivalent.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2008–2015 BMR engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output figures are for standard ECU mapping (Volkswagen SSP 424).
Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletins: 2040310/5
Volkswagen Self-Study Programme (SSP): 424
Volkswagen ETKA Parts Catalogue
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Volkswagen BMR was used across Volkswagen's Mk6 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Scirocco and specific ECU mappings for the Eos-and from 2011 minor ECU updates were implemented for emissions compliance, though no major mechanical changes affected core compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the rear of the cylinder head, near the transmission flange (Volkswagen SSP 424). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code for Volkswagen Group vehicles. Visually, the BMR can be identified by its black plastic intake manifold and the “2.0 TSI” badge on the engine cover. Critical differentiation from the CAEB/CCTA: The BMR uses a specific high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) and has a unique ECU software calibration. Service parts, particularly for the fuel system and turbocharger, require verification against the engine code and production date due to running updates (Volkswagen ETKA).
The BMR's primary reliability concern is excessive oil consumption, with elevated incidence in engines exceeding 100,000 km. Volkswagen internal data acknowledges this issue in Service Bulletin 2040310/5, while owner reports frequently cite it as a maintenance burden. Extended oil change intervals and use of non-specified oil grades significantly exacerbate the problem, making adherence to the prescribed service schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2010-2016) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BMR.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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