The Audi CAHB is a 1,395 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2016. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA211 engine family, designed for compact and subcompact applications. Featuring a transverse layout, direct fuel injection (TSI), and dual overhead camshafts with variable valve timing, it delivers 81 kW (110 PS) and 200 Nm of torque. Its lightweight construction and thermal efficiency support strong low-end response and real-world fuel economy.
Fitted to models such as the Audi A1 (8X) and A3 (8V), the CAHB engine was engineered for urban drivability and efficient highway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through integrated exhaust manifolds, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a close-coupled three-way catalyst, enabling Euro 5 and select Euro 6 compliance depending on market and model year. The engine's compact design supports front-wheel drive layouts with optimized space utilization.
One documented concern is premature timing belt wear under extended service intervals or adverse operating conditions. This issue, highlighted in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2013-09, is linked to tensioner degradation and coolant ingress in high-humidity environments. From 2014, revised tensioner materials and updated inspection protocols were implemented to improve reliability.
Production years 2012–2013 meet Euro 5 standards; 2014–2016 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CAHB is a 1,395 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine designed for compact models (2012-2016). It combines TSI direct injection with an integrated exhaust manifold and variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-RPM performance and stable fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances city-friendly drivability with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (fixed geometry) | |
| 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 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2014); Euro 6 (2014–2016, market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, integrated exhaust manifold | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed-geometry turbo (BorgWarner KP35) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (service interval: 120,000 km or 5 years) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 97 kg |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides immediate low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 5-year timing belt service intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. VW 502 00 / 505 00 (5W-30) oil is essential for turbo and direct injection system longevity. Coolant system integrity must be maintained to prevent heater core and turbo coolant line leaks. The integrated exhaust manifold reduces warm-up time but increases cylinder head thermal load. Post-2014 models feature upgraded timing belt tensioners; pre-2014 units benefit from the revised part per Audi SIB 2013-09. Carbon buildup on intake valves is common due to portless direct injection; periodic walnut blasting recommended.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2013-09). Not compatible with ACEA A/B standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2012–2013 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Euro 6 compliance confirmed for 2014+ units in EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output maintained across altitude with ECU boost compensation (Audi TIS Doc. A41020).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A41020, SIB 2013-09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Audi CAHB was used across Audi's 8X/8V platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for compact applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake tracts in the A1 and revised EGR routing in the A3-and from 2014 the facelifted A3 8V.5 adopted Euro 6 calibration, creating emissions system incompatibility. Partnerships enabled shared architecture with Volkswagen, Škoda, and SEAT. 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 A41020). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine code ('C' for CAHB). Pre-2014 models have a silver valve cover with black plastic cam cover; post-2014 units feature all-black covers. Critical differentiation from EA211 variants: CAHB uses Bosch MED 17.5.25 ECU with 104-pin connector and BorgWarner KP35 turbo. Service parts require production date verification—timing belts and tensioners for pre-2014 models are not compatible with post-facelift A3 8V.5 units due to calibration and hardware changes (Audi SIB 2014-06).
The CAHB's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to tensioner degradation, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding service intervals. Internal Audi quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant number of pre-2014 units required unscheduled belt replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show emissions-related faults dominate MOT failures in high-mileage examples. Extended idling and urban driving increase thermal stress, making adherence to service intervals and coolant system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CAHB.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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