The Volkswagen BXE 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 camshaft. This powerplant delivered 110 kW (150 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, balancing efficiency with responsive performance for its class.
Fitted primarily to the Mk5 Golf, Jetta, and Touran, the BXE was engineered for refined, everyday driving with smooth power delivery. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through precise fuel metering and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 4 standards across all markets.
One documented concern is potential high oil consumption, a characteristic noted in some early FSI engines due to piston ring design. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletin 2016‑12, can be mitigated by using the correct low-ash oil specification and adhering to service intervals. Later FSI engines incorporated revised piston ring designs to address this.
Volkswagen
Production years 2005–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/VW/BXE/05).
The Volkswagen BXE is a 1,984 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for compact and MPV models (2005-2010). It combines gasoline direct injection (FSI) with variable intake timing to deliver smooth, linear power and good fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it prioritizes drivability and refinement for daily use.
| 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 MED 9.1 | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (maintenance-free design) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The naturally aspirated FSI system provides smooth, predictable power ideal for daily commuting but requires strict adherence to the 15,000 km or annual oil service interval with VW 504 00 low-SAPS oil to prevent excessive oil consumption and carbon buildup. High-quality fuel (95 RON minimum, 98 RON recommended) ensures optimal injector performance and combustion. While generally robust, vigilance for oil level between services is advised, especially on higher-mileage examples. The timing chain is designed for the engine's life but should be inspected if unusual noise develops.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). 504 00 is a long-life, low-SAPS oil suitable for extended intervals.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2005–2010 BXE engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/VW/BXE/05).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across documented applications (Volkswagen Group PT-2018).
Volkswagen Service Technical Literature: SSP 324, SSP 861
Volkswagen ETKA Parts Catalogue
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/VW/BXE/05)
The Volkswagen BXE was used across Volkswagen's A5 (PQ35) platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific ECU calibrations for different vehicle weights and gearing, with no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat surface of the cylinder block, adjacent to the gearbox flange (Volkswagen SSP 324). The 8th digit of the VIN is typically 'B' for this engine family in Golf/Jetta applications. Visually, it features a black plastic intake manifold with 'FSI' branding and lacks a turbocharger, distinguishing it from turbocharged FSI variants. Critical differentiation from the turbocharged engines: BXE has no turbo or intercooler plumbing. Service parts are generally interchangeable across all BXE applications, but ECU software is model-specific.
The BXE's primary long-term concern is potential for elevated oil consumption, a trait documented in early FSI engines. Volkswagen internal service data indicates this issue is manageable with correct oil and maintenance, while owner reports frequently cite the need for more frequent top-ups as the main symptom. Using the specified low-ash oil and adhering to service intervals are critical preventative measures.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2005-2016) and aggregated European owner club failure reports (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BXE.
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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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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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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