VW Turbo Kits
With prices of the fourth generation Volkswagen Golf and Jetta becoming more and more approachable, the popularity of VW turbo kits for the 1.8 liter turbocharged engine has grown. Any VW or Audi with the 1.8t can benefit from an aftermarket "reflash" of the factory engine computer. This upgrade will make the turbo produce more boost and allow the engine to run a bit more aggressively to produce more power. Owners of the newer cars should also note that these companies provide upgrades for the 2.0t as well.
The next level power level will require a turbo kit. There are a handful of companies producing quality products for the VW enthusiast:
- APR: http://www.goapr.com/
- APR sells full bolt on kits with a number of power goals and configurations. Many will argue it isn't the cheapest way to upgrade, but APR has built a reputation for putting together high-quality, trouble-free products.
- Bahn Brenner Motorsport: (http://www.bahnbrenner.com/) also produces complete kits. BBM also provides options for older engines such as the 16-valve.
As far as upgrades for specific turbochargers are concerned, there are three more companies with the ability to breathe life into a turbo VW:
- REVO: (http://www.revotechnik.com/)
- GIAC: (http://www.giacusa.com/ )
- Unitronic: (http://www.unitronic.ca/)
None of these produce a specific parts kit in the vein of what APR or BBM offer, but they do accommodate a number of different turbo sizes and makes. This allows for a variety of options not covered by APR's engine software. In addition, they also offer quality upgrades for the stock engine computer for use with the factory turbo.
This is by no means a complete list, and the debate regarding which of these is the best company is endless. They are, however, all safe choices in the turbocharged Volkswagen world. If you are considering upgrading your VW, a quick phone call to any of the above suppliers will answer quite a few complicated questions. This information will help determine how much power you can make, as well as what you can expect to spend. No matter what choice you finally make, it is guaranteed to open a new world of turbocharged fun.
