The Audi BXA is a 1,395 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It was developed as part of the Volkswagen Group’s modular engine strategy, featuring TFSI (Turbo Fuel Stratified Injection) technology, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust. In standard tune it delivered 81 kW (110 PS) with 200 Nm of torque, balancing compact packaging with responsive urban performance.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A1 (8X) and SEAT Ibiza Mk5, the BXA engine was engineered for entry-level premium hatchbacks targeting city driving and fuel-efficient commuting. It meets Euro 5 emissions standards through a close-coupled three-way catalyst and integrated exhaust manifold, with no particulate filter required. The engine's character emphasizes low-end responsiveness and smooth idle quality, supported by precise direct fuel injection and cam phasing for optimal efficiency.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in early-production units. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2014-15 (Audi TSB 2014-15), is attributed to insufficient oil flow to the upper chain guide during cold starts. From 2015, Audi implemented an updated tensioner design and revised oil pump control strategy to improve lubrication reliability.
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi BXA is a 1,395 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks (2012–2018). It combines TFSI direct injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and agile city driving. Designed to meet Euro 5 and later Euro 6 standards, it balances emissions compliance with everyday drivability in small premium vehicles.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 79.5 mm | |
| Power output | 81 kW (110 PS) @ 5,000–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 150 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | IHI single-scroll turbo (RHF4) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted; tensioner wear documented) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 102 kg |
The single-scroll turbo provides strong low-RPM pull ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo bearing degradation. VW 502 00 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection of the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling should be avoided to maintain oil pressure at the upper chain guide. The Bosch HDEV5 fuel system demands premium unleaded (RON 95 minimum) to prevent direct injector coking and pre-ignition. Post-2015 models feature revised tensioner design; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Audi TSB 2014-15. Three-way catalyst longevity depends on regular highway runs to maintain operating temperature.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 16 03 12). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2015 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 6 compliance confirmed for 2015–2018 builds in EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output achieved with RON 95 fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A31805).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31022, A31509, SIB 16 03 12, TSB 2014-15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi BXA was used across Audi's 8X platform with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for compact applications. This engine received platform-specific calibrations-tuned throttle response in the A1 and revised torque management in SEAT variants-and from 2015 the updated A1 Sportback adopted Euro 6-compliant tuning, creating interchange limits. Shared architecture allowed SEAT and Škoda models to use identical base hardware. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Audi TIS A31200). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('B' for EA211 series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with ribbed plastic timing covers; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EA211 1.2 TSI: BXA features a visible turbocharger on the right side (from driver's perspective) and a different intake manifold layout. Service parts require model year verification - timing kits for engines before 08/2014 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Audi TSB 2014-15).
The BXA'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-2015 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalyst failures in stop-start traffic. Cold-start cycles and extended idling reduce oil flow to the chain guide, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2013–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BXA.
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