The Volkswagen BYD is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design, and a small, fast-spooling turbocharger. This configuration prioritizes low-end torque and fuel efficiency, making it ideal for compact city and suburban vehicles.
Fitted to models like the Polo, Ibiza, and Fabia, the BYD was engineered for responsive, economical driving in urban environments. Emissions compliance evolved during its production, with early units meeting Euro 4 standards and later builds achieving Euro 5, primarily through refined engine management and exhaust aftertreatment.
A documented generational update occurred around 2010, where Volkswagen revised the engine's internal components, including the timing chain tensioner and water pump design, to address early wear issues identified in service bulletins. This update improved long-term reliability for post-2010 production units.
Volkswagen
Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2015 models meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
The Volkswagen BYD is a 1,390 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for supermini and small hatchback applications (2008-2015). It combines gasoline direct injection (TSI) with a small turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and responsive power for city driving. Designed to meet evolving Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it offers a balance of performance and efficiency for its vehicle class.
| 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 | Bosch Motronic MED 17.5, TSI direct injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2008–2009); Euro 5 (2010–2015) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | IHI VF33 (or equivalent) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 106 kg |
The small turbo provides strong low-RPM torque for effortless city driving but requires premium unleaded fuel (95 RON minimum, 98 RON recommended) to prevent knocking and maintain performance. The timing chain is designed for longevity but early units (pre-2010) were prone to tensioner wear; a revised tensioner was introduced in 2010 per Volkswagen technical bulletin. Oil changes must use VW 502 00/504 00 specification oil to protect the turbo and high-pressure fuel system. The water pump, integrated with the timing chain, is a known wear item and should be inspected or replaced preventatively during major services.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification oil (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). ACEA A3/B4 is the minimum standard.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2008–2009 models; Euro 5 applies to 2010–2015 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires 95 RON fuel (Volkswagen SSP 521).
Volkswagen Service Training: SSP 521 '1.4l TSI Engine'
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9876)
Volkswagen ETKA Parts Catalogue
The Volkswagen BYD was used across Volkswagen's Polo (9N/6R) and SEAT's Ibiza (6J) platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received a significant internal revision in 2010, updating the timing chain tensioner and water pump, creating parts compatibility differences between early and late production. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine code "BYD" is stamped on the flat machined surface at the rear of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange and below the exhaust manifold (Volkswagen SSP 521). The 8th digit of the VIN for BYD-equipped vehicles is typically "B". Visually, it can be identified by its compact size, black plastic intake manifold, and "1.4 TSI" badge on the engine cover. It is critical to differentiate it from the similar "CAVE" (122 PS, chain-driven) and "CAXA" (122 PS, belt-driven) engines, which have different power outputs and internal components. The 2010+ revision can be identified by a revised water pump housing and tensioner design.
The BYD's primary long-term maintenance concern is the integrated water pump and, on early builds, the timing chain tensioner. UK DVSA data indicates a higher-than-average incidence of cooling system faults in high-mileage examples. Regular use of correct coolant and oil, along with preventative replacement of the water pump on older engines, is critical for reliability.
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 BYD.
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
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