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How Much BHP Will I Gain from a Remap?

If you’re considering ECU remapping, you’re probably wondering about the big question: “How much extra power will my car get?”

The answer depends on your engine, fuel type, and what you want from the tune. At Technical Vehicle Solutions, we always explain this clearly so you know what to expect before we start. Let’s break it down.

Why power gains vary

Not every car responds to a remap in the same way. Key factors include:

Turbocharged vs naturally aspirated – Turbos see much bigger gains.
Petrol vs diesel – Both benefit, but in different ways.
Engine size and design – Some engines are heavily detuned from the factory.
Condition of the car – A healthy, well-maintained car delivers better results.

Typical BHP gains from remapping

Turbocharged petrol engines

Biggest gains – Often 20–40% more power.
Example: A 2.0-litre turbo petrol with 200 bhp stock might comfortably rise to 240–260 bhp.
Stronger top-end power and faster acceleration.

Turbo diesel engines

Huge torque increases – Perfect for everyday driving and towing.
BHP gains of 20–35% are common.
Example: A 150 bhp diesel may rise to 180–200 bhp, but the real difference is how much more flexible it feels on the road.

Naturally aspirated petrol engines

Modest improvements – Usually 5–10% more BHP.
Gains are felt more in throttle response and smoother power delivery than in headline numbers.
Example: A 180 bhp NA engine might rise to 190–195 bhp.

It’s not all about the numbers

BHP figures look great on paper, but the real benefit of a remap is how the car drives:

Torque – The shove in your back when you accelerate is often more noticeable than peak BHP.
Throttle response – Sharper and more immediate.
Drivability – Fewer gear changes, smoother overtaking, and more confidence on the road.

For most drivers, the improvement in everyday usability is even more satisfying than the dyno sheet.

Safe, realistic gains

At Technical Vehicle Solutions, we don’t chase unrealistic numbers. All our maps are written to:

Stay within safe limits of the engine and drivetrain.
Maintain reliability and longevity.
Provide a balance of performance and drivability.

That means your car feels faster, stronger, and more enjoyable – without unnecessary risk.

Example customer experiences

VW Golf GTD (184 bhp) → Typically 220 bhp with a safe remap, but torque feels like the biggest gain.
BMW 320d (190 bhp) → Around 220 bhp, smoother pull through every gear.
Ford Focus ST 2.0 EcoBoost (250 bhp) → Often 285–300 bhp with safe tuning, transforming acceleration.

So, how much BHP will you gain from a remap?

In summary:

Turbo petrol: +20–40% bhp
Turbo diesel: +20–35% bhp (plus huge torque gains)
Naturally aspirated petrol: +5–10% bhp

But remember, it’s not just about the numbers, it’s about making your car more responsive, enjoyable, and suited to the way you drive.

Ready to unlock more power?

If you’d like to know exactly what your car is capable of, get in touch. At Technical Vehicle Solutions, we’ll give you honest, tailored advice and a remap that transforms your driving experience safely.

📞 Call us today on 01763 230411 to discuss your car and book your ECU remap.