The Audi CMBA is a 1,984 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2021. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA888 Gen 3B engine family, featuring enhanced thermal management and emissions control. Equipped with direct fuel injection (TSI), variable valve timing (AVS), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), it delivers 140 kW (190 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, offering responsive performance and real-world efficiency.
Fitted to models including the A3 (8V), A4 (B9), and Q3, the CMBA was engineered for balanced driving dynamics and compliance with stringent Euro 6c standards. Its transverse mounting allows integration across compact and mid-size platforms, with features such as an electro-mechanical coolant pump, dual-loop cooling, and controlled cylinder deactivation in select applications. Emissions compliance is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and lambda control, meeting Euro 6c standards.
One documented reliability concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high-load conditions. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2018-016, is linked to mechanical stress on the Bosch HDP6 pump's internal drive mechanism. From 2018 onward, revised pump assemblies and updated ECU calibrations were implemented to improve durability and reduce failure rates.
All production years (2016–2021) meet Euro 6c emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9014).
The Audi CMBA is a 1,984 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (2016–2021). It integrates TSI direct injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive performance and efficient fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 6c emissions standards, it balances sporty character with regulatory compliance through advanced thermal and fuel management.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (K04 turbo) | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 140 kW (190 PS) @ 4,200–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 high-pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6c | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with electro-mechanical coolant pump and dual-loop circuit | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (K04 with electronic wastegate) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (lifetime service interval, inspection recommended) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 137 kg |
The CMBA's turbocharging and AVS system provide strong low-end torque and smooth power delivery, ideal for spirited driving and motorway cruising. VW 502 00/505 00 oil is essential for turbo and HPFP longevity due to its thermal stability. Fuel quality is critical—premium unleaded (98 RON) is recommended for sustained performance. The timing chain requires no scheduled replacement but should be inspected if rattle or oil consumption issues arise. Post-2018 models feature updated HPFP design and revised ECU mapping to reduce wear and improve throttle response.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 specification (Audi SIB 2017-013). Not compatible with ACEA A/B standards.
Emissions: All models comply with Euro 6c standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9014). No earlier variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output assumes premium fuel (98 RON) and ambient conditions (Volkswagen Group PT-2017).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A38823, SIB 2017-013, SIB 2018-016
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9014)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CMBA was used across Audi's 8V/B9 platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for longitudinal and transverse applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Q3 and revised intake manifolds in the A3—and from 2018 the facelifted B9 A4 adopted updated HPFP and ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the timing belt cover (Audi TIS A38823). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 2.0 TFSI EA888 series). Pre-2018 units have silver valve covers; post-2018 models use black. Critical differentiation from CJGC: CMBA has Bosch HDP6 HPFP with trapezoidal electrical connector and updated ECU calibration. Service parts require production date verification—HPFP and ECU from pre-2018 models are not compatible with post-facelift B9 units due to calibration changes (Audi SIB 2018-016).
The CMBA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2019 noted increased HPFP failure rates in pre-2018 builds, while UK DVSA MOT data links a significant portion of emissions-related failures to lambda sensor and catalytic converter faults in stop-start traffic. Extended service intervals and low-octane fuel amplify fuel system stress, making fuel quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2016-2021) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CDBA.
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