The Volkswagen BRU is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features gasoline direct injection (FSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing on the intake cam. This engine delivered 110 kW (150 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, with its high-pressure direct injection system enabling efficient combustion and strong mid-range response.
Fitted to models such as the Mk5 Golf, Jetta, and Touran, the BRU was engineered for refined, economical daily driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel metering and secondary air injection, allowing adherence to Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented characteristic is sensitivity to fuel quality and oil specification, as noted in Volkswagen's Technical Service Bulletin 2028608. The FSI system relies on precise high-pressure injection; using fuel below RON 95 or incorrect oil can lead to carbon buildup and injector issues over time.

Volkswagen
Production years 2005–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Volkswagen BRU is a 1,984 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for compact MPVs and sedans (2005-2010). It combines gasoline direct injection (FSI) with variable intake timing to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it prioritizes fuel efficiency and low emissions for its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline Direct Injection (FSI), Bosch MED9.5 ECU | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (timing chain) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | Not Available |
The naturally aspirated FSI design provides smooth, predictable power but is sensitive to fuel and oil quality. Using fuel below RON 95 or non-specified oil can accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves and injectors, leading to rough running. Adhering to 15,000 km oil change intervals with VW 502 00/504 00 oil is critical for injector and chain longevity. The timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected if a rattle is heard at startup. The variable intake timing system enhances efficiency but can develop solenoid faults over time.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). ACEA A3/B4 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2005–2010 BRU engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires 95 RON fuel (Volkswagen TIS 2028608).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Doc 2028608
Volkswagen ETKA Parts Catalogue: Doc 03C 103 091
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
The Volkswagen BRU was used across Volkswagen's A5 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-slightly different engine mounts for the Touran-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 machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, just below the intake manifold (Volkswagen TIS 2028608). The 8th digit of the VIN for Golf/Jetta is '1' for 2.0L FSI engines. Visually, the BRU can be identified by its black plastic intake manifold and the "2.0 FSI" badge on the engine cover. Critical differentiation from the turbocharged BPC: BRU lacks a turbocharger and associated plumbing. The ECU part number (e.g., 03C 906 032) is also a definitive identifier.
The BRU's primary reliability consideration is carbon buildup on intake valves, inherent to its FSI design. Volkswagen TIS 2028608 acknowledges this as a characteristic requiring periodic maintenance, while owner data suggests it can lead to drivability issues if low-quality fuel or oil is used. Extended oil change intervals accelerate carbon formation, making proactive cleaning and correct oil specification critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2005-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BRU.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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