The Audi BTR is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It belongs to the EA288 engine family and features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), common rail direct injection, and variable geometry turbocharging (VGT). In standard tune it delivers 100 kW (136 PS), with higher outputs available in tuned variants up to 140 kW (190 PS). Peak torque ranges from 320 to 400 Nm.
Fitted to models such as the 8V A3, 8W A4, and Typ 8S TT, the BTR was engineered for responsive low-end torque and motorway efficiency in transverse-mounted applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling Euro 5 and Euro 6 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high-load operation, highlighted in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2014-09. This issue is linked to lubricity degradation in low-sulfur diesel fuels. From 2015, revised HPFP calibration and updated injector control strategies were implemented to improve durability.
Production years 2010–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6d-TEMP (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi BTR is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (2010–2018). It combines common-rail injection with variable geometry turbocharging to deliver strong low-RPM torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance in front-wheel-drive configurations.
| 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 | 100–140 kW (136–190 PS) | |
| Torque | 320–400 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6d-TEMP (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted, dual-row) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The VGT provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban and motorway driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to maintain turbo and chain longevity. VW 504 00 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and protection of the high-pressure fuel system. Cold-start idling should be minimized to ensure prompt oil pressure build-up. The Bosch CRS 2.0 fuel system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent HPFP wear. Post-2015 models feature revised fuel calibration; pre-2015 units should be monitored per Audi SIB 2014-09. SCR system longevity depends on consistent AdBlue dosing and DPF regeneration cycles.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2014-09). ACEA C3 equivalent acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2015 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). 2015–2018 models meet Euro 6d-TEMP.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies by calibration and aftertreatment status (Audi TIS Doc. A288-901).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A288-770, A288-882, SIB 2014-09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi BTR was used across Audi's 8V/8W platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory drives in the 8V A3 and revised cooling routing in the 8W A4-and from 2015 the facelifted 8V LCI models adopted updated engine management software, creating minor calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the oil filter housing (Audi TIS A288-890). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for BTR series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with ribbed finish; post-2015 units use dark grey covers. Critical differentiation from similar EA288 units: BTR features VGT turbo and SCR system. Service parts require production date verification—fuel pumps for engines before 09/2014 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Audi SIB 2014-09).
The BTR's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage motorway use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2016 noted increased warranty claims for HPFP failures in pre-2015 units, while UK DVSA records show a notable portion of emissions-related failures linked to DPF saturation in urban-driven examples. Extended oil intervals and poor fuel quality increase fuel system stress, making fuel and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2010–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BTR.
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
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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
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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