The Audi CBRA is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2018. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). Delivering 103 kW (140 PS) in standard tune, it provides strong low-end torque ideal for daily driving and efficient highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the A3 (8P), A4 (B7/B8), A6 (C6/C7), and Q5 (83), the CBRA engine was engineered for balanced performance, fuel economy, and refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in later models, meeting Euro 4 through Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) degradation, particularly in units subjected to extended service intervals or low-quality diesel. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2011-15-01, stems from inadequate lubrication under high-pressure conditions. From 2013, revised fuel system calibration and updated pump materials improved long-term reliability in Euro 5-compliant variants.
Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2018 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi CBRA is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size applications (2008–2018). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and stable highway performance. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances real-world efficiency with drivability.
| 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 | 103 kW (140 PS) | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,500–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (2010–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted, low wear risk) | |
| Oil type | VW 507 00 / 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The CBRA delivers strong low-end torque suitable for urban and motorway use but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 507 00 (5W-30) to maintain fuel pump and turbo longevity. The Bosch CRS 2.0 system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent HPFP wear. EGR and DPF systems require regular longer runs to avoid clogging; SCR-equipped models need AdBlue top-ups every 10,000 km. From 2013, updated fuel pump materials and revised ECU mapping improved reliability in Euro 5 applications. Pre-2010 models should be checked for EGR cooler integrity per Audi TSB 2011-15-01.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2010-08-03). Supersedes ACEA B4 and C3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 applies to 2008–2009 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 5 compliance confirmed for 2010–2018 builds depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 590 (Audi Group PT-2022).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32075, A32501, SIB 2010-08-03, TSB 2011-15-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CBRA was used across Audi's 8P/B7/B8/C6/C7 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake tracts in the A3 and revised cooling layouts in the Q5-and from 2013 the facelifted A6 C7 adopted Euro 5+ calibration with SCR integration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A32090). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for CBRA series). Pre-2010 models use a round EGR valve housing; post-2013 units feature a trapezoidal design with integrated SCR dosing. Critical differentiation from later EA288: CBRA uses Bosch EDC17CP56 ECU with 90-pin connector, while EA288 uses EDC17CV44 with 120-pin. Service parts require production date verification—EGR coolers before 06/2011 are incompatible with post-2013 emissions systems (Audi TSB 2011-15-01).
The CBRA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation, with elevated incidence in urban-driven vehicles with short-trip usage. Internal Audi quality reports from 2012 indicated a notable share of pre-2013 units requiring HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show EGR cooler failures contributing to emissions-related MOT failures. Extended oil intervals and low-quality diesel increase pump and EGR stress, making fluid quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2009–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CBRA.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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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