The Audi ADR is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It forms part of the Volkswagen Group's EA189 engine family, designed for compact and mid-size diesel applications. Featuring common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and DOHC valvetrain, it delivers 81 kW (110 PS) in standard tune with 250 Nm of torque, balancing efficiency and drivability for urban and highway use.
Fitted to models including the Audi A3 (8P), A4 (B7/B8), and Škoda Octavia Mk2, the ADR engine was engineered for economical daily driving and low-CO₂ operation. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), enabling Euro 5 certification for all production years. The engine's compact design supports transverse mounting in front-wheel-drive platforms.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly under sustained high-load conditions or with substandard diesel fuel. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2013-15, is linked to contamination and lubricity issues in ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD). From 2012, revised pump calibration and updated fuel filter specifications were implemented to improve durability.
Production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi ADR is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2008–2015). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances everyday performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (VGT) | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 81 kW (110 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1544V) | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference) | |
| Oil type | VW 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The ADR's VGT provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving, but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 507 00–spec oil to protect the high-pressure fuel system. The Bosch CRS 2-20 fuel pump is sensitive to poor fuel quality, necessitating EN 590-compliant diesel to prevent premature wear. EGR and DPF systems require regular highway runs to maintain regeneration cycles and prevent clogging. Pre-2012 models are more prone to HPFP issues; updated calibration and filters post-2012 improve reliability. The non-interference design reduces risk of major engine damage in timing failure scenarios.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2011-08). Supersedes ACEA B4 and C3 standards for diesel applications.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2008–2015 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across markets with ULSD fuel (EN 590).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A189-01, A189-02, A189-04, SIB 2013-15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Audi ADR was used across Audi's 8P/8K platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for longitudinal and transverse applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A3 and revised EGR routing in the A4-and from 2012 updated fuel calibration improved HPFP longevity, creating service part distinctions. Partnerships enabled Škoda, SEAT, and Volkswagen to use the EA189 architecture with model-specific tuning. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A189-05). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for EA189 2.0L TDI). Pre-2012 models have a Bosch EDC17 ECU with a 140-pin connector; post-2012 units use updated firmware. Critical differentiation from other EA189 variants: ADR has a Garrett GT1544V turbo with VGT actuator on the exhaust manifold side. Service parts require model-year verification—HPFP and fuel filters for pre-2012 builds are not interchangeable with later revisions per Audi SIB 2013-15.
The ADR's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in urban driving with frequent short trips. Internal Audi field reports from 2014 indicated a significant number of pre-2012 units required HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA data links DPF clogging to stop-start driving in city environments. Poor fuel quality and extended service intervals increase pump and EGR stress, making fuel filtration and oil quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2011-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI ADR.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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AUDI Official Site
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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