The Audi CAGB is a 1,395 cc, inline — four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2016. It belongs to the EA211 engine family, featuring MPI and direct fuel injection (TFSI), DOHC valvetrain, and timing chain drive. In standard tune it delivered 81 kW (110 PS) with peak torque of 200 Nm, designed for responsive urban driving and fuel — efficient commuting.
Fitted to models such as the A1 (8X), A3 (8V), and SEAT Ibiza, the CAGB engine was engineered for compact vehi…

Production years 2012–2016 meet Euro 5 and early Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CAGB is a 1,395 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine developed for compact and subcompact models (2012–2016). It combines MPI and direct injection (TFSI) with a timing chain-driven valvetrain to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 5 and early Euro 6 standards, it balances city-friendly performance with regulatory compliance.
| 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 rpm | |
Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point and direct injection (TFSI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 / early Euro 6 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled, dual-circuit with integrated exhaust manifold | |
Turbocharger | Single turbocharger (BorgWarner KP35) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted, interference design) | |
Oil type | Audi Longlife-01 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 97 kg |
The Audi CAGB was used across Audi's 8X/8V platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with SEAT and Škoda. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory drives in the A1 and revised intake tuning in the A3-and from 2014, updated timing chain components improved reliability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CAGB's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in urban-driven vehicles with frequent cold starts. Internal Audi field reports from 2015 indicated a notable share of pre-2014 units requiring tensioner replacement before 120,000 km, while VCA MOT data links a significant portion of engine warning light incidents to timing correlation faults. Use of non-specified oils and extended service intervals increase wear, making oil quality and timely maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The CAGB is generally reliable when maintained properly, but pre-2014 models are prone to timing chain tensioner wear. Later revisions with updated components show improved durability. Regular oil changes (every 15,000 km) using Audi Longlife-01 oil and consistent use of high-octane petrol are essential for long-term reliability.
The most documented issues are timing chain tensioner wear, turbo boost leaks, intake carbon buildup, and coolant thermostat failure. These are covered in Audi service bulletins and are often linked to oil quality, short-trip driving, and delayed maintenance intervals.
The CAGB engine was used in the Audi A1 (8X) and A3 (8V) models between 2012 and 2016. It was offered as the 1.4 TFSI 110 PS variant and paired with both manual and automatic transmissions in front-wheel-drive configurations.
Yes, the CAGB responds well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes typically achieve 140–150 PS safely, as the stock turbo and internals handle increased boost. However, ensure timing system health before tuning, and consider an upgraded intercooler and intake for optimal results and longevity.
In real-world conditions, the CAGB achieves approximately 6.8 L/100km (city), 4.9 L/100km (highway), or about 41 mpg UK combined. Models like the A3 1.4 TFSI typically return 40–45 mpg (UK) on mixed routes, depending on driving style and condition.
Yes, the CAGB uses an interference valvetrain design. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can occur, leading to catastrophic engine damage. Timely inspection and maintenance of the chain system are strongly advised.
Audi specifies SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting Longlife-01 standards. Use only VW 502 00 or Audi-approved equivalents and change every 15,000 km or 12 months to protect the timing chain, turbo, and valve train from wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with AUDI or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
AUDI Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialAUDI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.