The Volkswagen BRS is a 1,390 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). This compact unit delivered 90 kW (122 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, with its turbocharging enabling strong low-rpm torque for responsive city driving.
Fitted to models such as the Polo Mk5, Ibiza, and Fabia, the BRS was engineered for efficiency and agile performance in supermini applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel metering and secondary air injection, allowing it to meet Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, noted in Volkswagen Technical Service Bulletin 2023087/2. This issue, common to early TSI engines, is often linked to fuel quality and infrequent oil changes affecting camshaft lobe wear. Later revisions incorporated material and design improvements to enhance durability.
Volkswagen
Production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Volkswagen BRS is a 1,390 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engineered for supermini applications (2008-2015). It combines direct and port fuel injection (TSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver responsive power and strong low-end torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances peppy performance with commendable fuel economy.
| 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) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MED 17.5, combined direct and port injection (TSI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | IHI VF33 (fixed geometry) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (maintenance-free design) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The TSI system provides strong, linear power delivery and mitigates carbon buildup via port injection. However, the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) is susceptible to premature failure if low-quality fuel or incorrect oil is used. Strict adherence to VW 502 00/504 00 oil specifications and Top Tier fuel is critical. The timing chain is robust but should be inspected for tensioner wear after 150,000 km. The fixed-geometry turbo offers good response but can develop wastegate rattle over time.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). Longlife 5W-30 is also approved for extended intervals.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all BRS engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across all applications (Volkswagen SSP 823).
Volkswagen Self-Study Programme (SSP): 823, 921
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
Volkswagen ETKA Parts Catalogue
The Volkswagen BRS was used across Volkswagen's A0 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Skoda Fabia and a unique air intake in the Seat Ibiza-but no major facelift revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat surface of the cylinder block, adjacent to the transmission flange (Volkswagen SSP 823). The 8th VIN digit for BRS-equipped vehicles is typically 'R'. Visually, it can be identified by its black plastic intake manifold and the "1.4 TSI" badge on the engine cover. Critical differentiation from the later CZTA engine: The BRS uses a specific IHI VF33 turbocharger and Bosch MED 17.5 ECU software. The presence of both direct and port injectors confirms it is a TSI, not an FSI engine.
The BRS's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using poor-quality fuel. Internal Volkswagen quality reports indicate this was a significant warranty claim item for early TSI engines, while owner feedback highlights turbo wastegate rattle as a common annoyance. Extended oil change intervals and low-grade petrol accelerate HPFP wear, making preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical service bulletins (2008-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BRS.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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