2006 VW Passat 2.0T grinding noise.?

[RossM]

I have a 2006 Passat Sedan 2.0T and I now have 180k kms on it. I had the car since new. Now I notice a slight grinding noise while traveling on hwy under low acceleration and going up hill. I noticed it really when leaving a parkade with engine still warm and going up a short yet steep incline and the grinding noise was really bad! It seems like it's coming from under the engine or so. Not quite sure. But under heavier stress it's very noticeable.
I have also done many oil changes, did an engine flush, transmission service but this started slightly before all that.
Please help by providing best knowledge you guys have! Thank you!

 

[XUSAAAgent]

Off hand it sounds like the turbo may be shot. Have a trusted mechanic put an auto stethoscope on the turbo as it is running and he/she can likely diagnose it. It of course makes a little noise even when in perfect running order, but if the bearing are worn the vanes could be rubbing and making a lot of noise.