The Volkswagen BNV is a 1,968 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This engine was designed to offer a blend of strong low-end torque for effortless acceleration and commendable fuel efficiency for its era.
Fitted primarily to the Mk5 Golf, Jetta, and Touran, the BNV was engineered for drivers prioritizing fuel economy and relaxed cruising ability. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through technologies like exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting the prevailing Euro 4 standards across its core markets.
One documented area for attention is the potential for injector seal failure, which can lead to combustion gases entering the engine's oil system. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen's internal service documentation, underscores the importance of using the correct specification oil and adhering to service intervals.
Volkswagen
All production years (2005–2010) meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Volkswagen BNV is a 1,968 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact MPVs and hatchbacks (2005-2010). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances everyday drivability 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) | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Common Rail (Piezo injectors) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (requires periodic replacement) | |
| Oil type | VW 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 165 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-end torque ideal for urban and highway driving but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil change intervals using VW 507 00 (5W-30) oil to protect the turbo and injectors. Injector seal failure is a known concern; using the correct oil helps prevent combustion gases from contaminating the lubrication system. The timing belt is a critical wear item and must be replaced per the service schedule (typically 120,000–160,000 km) to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. EGR systems benefit from periodic cleaning to maintain performance.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 specification oil (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). This low-ash oil is critical for protecting the DPF and injector seals.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all model years (2005-2010) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output requires EN 590 diesel fuel (Volkswagen TIS Doc. VW-79000).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VW-78901, VW-78902, VW-79000
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
Volkswagen Group Powertrain Documentation (PT-2018)
The Volkswagen BNV was used across Volkswagen's PQ35 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-including revised engine mounts for the Touran-and shared core architecture with other 2.0 TDI variants, creating parts commonality with specific limitations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat surface of the cylinder block, near the transmission flange (Volkswagen TIS VW-78905). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine type. Visually, the engine features a black plastic intake manifold and a vertically mounted oil filter. Differentiation from other 2.0 TDI variants (e.g., BKD, BMM) requires checking the specific engine code stamp or ECU software version. Service parts, particularly for the fuel system and timing belt, are generally interchangeable within the BNV code but may differ from other engine families.
The BNV's primary reliability consideration is potential injector seal failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to extended oil change intervals. Volkswagen service documentation notes this can lead to oil contamination and increased crankcase pressure, while adherence to the correct oil specification is paramount. Neglecting oil changes or using incorrect oil makes seal failure and subsequent turbo or engine damage significantly more likely.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2005-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BNV.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
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