The Audi APT is a 1,395 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2016. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA211 engine family, featuring gasoline direct injection (TSI), double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing. In standard tune, it produces 77 kW (105 PS) at 5,000 rpm and 155 Nm of torque between 1,500–3,500 rpm, delivering responsive urban performance with compact packaging.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A1 (8X) and Audi A3 (8V) hatchbacks, the APT engine was engineered for lightweight efficiency and city-focused drivability. Its design prioritises low-end responsiveness and fuel economy in stop-start traffic, achieving Euro 5 emissions compliance through a three-way catalytic converter and lambda control system. Start-stop technology and regenerative braking were integrated to further enhance efficiency.
One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly under extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2014-15-03, is linked to inadequate lubrication flow during cold starts. From 2014 onward, Audi implemented an updated tensioner design and revised oil service intervals to mitigate risk.
Production years 2012–2013 meet Euro 5 standards; 2014–2016 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Audi APT is a 1,395 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks (2012–2016). It combines turbocharged stratified injection (TSI) with variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-end torque and urban efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 and later Euro 6 standards, it balances compact packaging with everyday performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 75.6 mm | |
| Power output | 77 kW (105 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (TSI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2014); Euro 6 (2014–2016) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted; tensioner wear concern) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The naturally aspirated TSI design provides smooth throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. Use of VW 502 00 (5W-30) specification oil is critical due to its thermal stability and protection of the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling or short trips increase carbon buildup on intake valves, necessitating periodic walnut blasting. Fuel quality must meet EN 228 standards to prevent injector coking. Post-2014 models feature revised tensioner geometry; pre-2014 units should follow Audi SIB 2014-15-03 for inspection and update. Emissions systems require regular lambda sensor checks to maintain catalytic efficiency.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2014-15-03). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2014 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). Euro 6 compliance confirmed for 2014–2016 models in applicable markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 228 (Audi TIS Doc. A13906).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A13571, A13893, SIB 2014-15-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi APT was used across Audi's 8X/8V platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture within the Volkswagen Group MQB family. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened accessory drives in the A1 and revised cooling routing in the A3-and from 2014 the facelifted A3 Sportback adopted the APT with updated emissions calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover near the alternator bracket (Audi TIS A13606). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for EA211 series). Pre-2014 models have silver valve covers with ribbed plastic timing covers; post-2014 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 1.2 TFSI: APT features a larger intake manifold and different exhaust manifold routing. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2014 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Audi SIB 2014-15-03).
The APT's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2015 noted a significant share of pre-2014 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor degradation in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended oil intervals increase tensioner stress, making oil quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI APT.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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