The Volkswagen BUN is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2014. It features gasoline direct injection (TSI), a single turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This compact engine was engineered for efficiency and responsiveness in smaller VW Group vehicles, delivering a specific output of over 100 PS per litre.
Fitted primarily to the Polo Mk5 and Ibiza Mk4, the BUN offered a blend of urban agility and highway capability. It was designed to meet tightening emissions regulations while maintaining drivability. Emissions compliance was managed through precise fuel metering and exhaust aftertreatment, meeting Euro 5 standards.
One documented characteristic is the potential for timing chain tensioner wear, referenced in Volkswagen's internal service communications. This issue, common to early EA111 TSI engines, stems from the high-pressure fuel pump being driven off the intake camshaft, increasing load on the timing system. Later revisions incorporated design improvements to mitigate this.
Volkswagen
Production years 2008–2014 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
The Volkswagen BUN is a 1,390 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for supermini and compact models (2008-2014). It combines gasoline direct injection (TSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and efficient performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances spirited driving with urban 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) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline Direct Injection (TSI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo (IHI or Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 110 kg |
The turbocharged TSI design provides strong, immediate torque from low revs, ideal for city driving and quick overtakes, but requires premium unleaded fuel (RON 95/98) for optimal performance and knock prevention. The timing chain, while generally durable, is subject to increased load from the cam-driven high-pressure fuel pump; using the correct VW-spec 5W-40 oil and adhering to 10,000-15,000 km service intervals is critical. Early models are more susceptible to tensioner wear; listen for a rattle on cold start.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). ACEA A3/B4 is the minimum standard.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2008-2014 BUN models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires 98 RON fuel for optimal timing (Volkswagen SSP 424).
Volkswagen Self-Study Programme (SSP): 424, 823
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9876)
Volkswagen ETKA Parts Catalogue
The Volkswagen BUN was used across Volkswagen's PQ25 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-including unique engine mounts for the SEAT Ibiza-and was part of the broader EA111 engine family, sharing core architecture with other 1.4T TSI variants. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine code "BUN" is stamped on the flat machined surface at the rear of the cylinder head, near the firewall (Volkswagen SSP 424). It can also be found on a sticker in the service book and on the vehicle data sticker in the spare tire well or door jamb. Visually, it is part of the EA111 family, identifiable by its plastic intake manifold and centrally mounted fuel rail. Differentiate from later EA211 engines by the separate exhaust manifold and the location of the high-pressure fuel pump on the intake camshaft.
The BUN's primary long-term maintenance concern is timing chain tensioner wear, inherent to its early EA111 TSI design. While not universal, it is a well-documented service item. Using the correct oil specification and adhering to service intervals is critical for turbo and timing chain longevity.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2008-2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BUN.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VOLKSWAGEN or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLKSWAGEN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
