The Audi AWT is a 1,896 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2000 and 2008. It was part of the EA189 engine family, featuring common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune, it delivered 85 kW (116 PS), with peak torque of 280 Nm, providing strong low-end pull for daily driving.
Fitted to models such as the A3 (8L), A4 (B5, B6), and A6 (C5), including variants like the 1.9 TDI 110, the AWT was engineered for economical motoring and reliable long-distance performance. Emissions control relied on exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and oxidation catalysts, meeting Euro 3 standards for early builds and Euro 4 compliance in post-2004 versions.
One documented concern is excessive carbon buildup in the intake manifold and EGR system, highlighted in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 201001. This issue stems from high soot levels in recirculated exhaust gas, particularly under short-trip driving conditions. Later revisions incorporated revised EGR coolers and updated engine management calibrations to mitigate deposit accumulation.
Production years 2000–2003 meet Euro 3 standards; 2004–2008 models comply with Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi AWT is a 1,896 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2000-2008). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,896 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (VGT) | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (116 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VP44 rotary pump (pre-2004), common rail (post-2004) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2004); Euro 4 (post-2004) | |
| Compression ratio | 18.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Variable geometry turbo (Garrett GT17V) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (service interval 120,000 km) | |
| Oil type | VW 505.00 specification (15W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but requires adherence to scheduled maintenance to prevent EGR and intake clogging. VW 505.00 (15W-40) oil is essential for high-pressure fuel system protection and thermal stability under load. Short-trip driving accelerates soot accumulation in the EGR path, necessitating periodic cleaning to maintain performance. Post-2004 models with common rail systems demand ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to avoid injector damage. Timing belt replacement must be performed at 120,000 km or 6 years—failure risks valve/piston contact. Cold starts should be avoided immediately under load to ensure oil circulation to turbo and top-end components.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 505.00 specification (Audi SIB 201001). Compatible with ACEA B5-04 standards.
Emissions: Euro 3 applies to pre-2004 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 4 certification valid for 2004–2008 production (VCA #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020. Output consistent across markets with EN 590 fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A189-4550).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A189-4500, A189-4510, SIB 201001
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678, VCA/EMS/5679)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Testing Standard
The Audi AWT was used across Audi's 8L/B5/B6 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volkswagen Group derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory belts in the A3 and revised cooling layouts in the A6-and from 2004 the switch to common rail injection created interchange limits. Partnerships within the VW Group enabled shared use in Volkswagen and SEAT vehicles with identical core architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing belt cover (Audi TIS A189-4560). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('A' for AWT series). Pre-2004 models use a VP44 distributor-style injection pump; post-2004 units feature common rail with solenoid injectors. Critical differentiation from ALH: AWT has revised ECU mapping and Garrett GT17V turbo with electronic actuator. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts and EGR valves are not interchangeable between pre- and post-2004 models due to calibration and hardware changes (Audi SIB 201001).
The AWT's primary reliability risk is EGR and intake carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban driving cycles. Internal Audi service data from 2005 indicated over 30% of pre-2004 units required EGR cleaning before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show EGR-related faults as a leading cause of diesel emissions failures. Short-trip use and infrequent oil changes increase soot accumulation, making proactive cleaning and oil quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2000-2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI AWT.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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.
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