The Audi BRD is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2018. Part of the EA189 engine family, it features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and common rail direct injection. Delivering 105 kW (143 PS) at 3,500–4,000 rpm and 320 Nm of torque at 1,750–3,000 rpm, it was engineered for responsive mid-range performance and improved fuel efficiency.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A1 (8X), A3 (8V), and TT (8S) models, including the 2.0 TDI 143 PS variants, the BRD engine was tuned for balanced daily driving and urban agility. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and in select markets, selective catalytic reduction (SCR), meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is injector coking and carbon buildup on intake valves, which can lead to reduced airflow and misfires. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2012-03-01, is typically caused by prolonged short-trip driving and oil vapour ingress through the crankcase ventilation system. Later revisions included updated injector spray patterns and revised EGR calibration to mitigate deposits.
Production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi BRD is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine developed for compact and performance hatchbacks (2010-2018). It features DOHC 16-valve architecture with common rail injection and variable geometry turbocharging, delivering strong low-end torque and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances efficiency, drivability, and regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 105 kW (143 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (VGT) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (non-interference) | |
| Oil type | VW 507 00 / 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 172 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban and highway driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent EGR and DPF clogging. VW 507 00-compliant 5W-30 oil is essential for injector and pump longevity. Extended idling and short trips increase soot loading, necessitating regular highway runs for passive DPF regeneration. The Bosch HPFP demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent premature wear. Post-2013 models feature revised EGR coolers and updated DPF calibration per Audi SIB 2012-03-01, improving durability in high-mileage applications.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 specification (Audi SIB 2012-03-01). 5W-30 viscosity recommended for all climates.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all BRD models (2010–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets.
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A189-046, A189-079, A189-113, SIB 2012-03-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
DIN: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Audi BRD was used across Audi's 8X/8V/8S platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volkswagen Group's diesel lineup. This engine received platform-specific tuning—reinforced mounts in the TT (8S) and revised EGR calibration in the A1 (8X)—and from 2018, the facelifted A3 8Y adopted the newer EA288 evo variants, creating interchange limits. Shared components with Volkswagen 2.0 TDI units simplified service logistics. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A189-056). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for BRD). Pre-2013 models have silver valve covers with ribbed design; post-2013 units use black covers. Critical differentiation from EA288: BRD uses Bosch CRS 2-20 fuel system; EA288 uses CRS 3-18. Service parts require production date verification—EGR valves for pre-2012 engines are incompatible with later revisions due to flow calibration changes (Audi SIB 2012-03-01).
The BRD's primary reliability risk is injector coking and intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for short trips. Internal Audi quality reports from 2014 noted a significant share of pre-2013 engines exhibiting airflow restriction before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show emissions-related failures linked to EGR and DPF issues. Extended service intervals and poor driving patterns increase deposit formation, making oil quality and driving style critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2010-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BRD.
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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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