The Audi CDLA is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2013 and 2019. It features common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with 16 valves. In standard tune, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, offering strong low-end responsiveness and efficient highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the A1 (8X), A3 (8V), and Q3 (8U), the CDLA engine was engineered for compact and subcompact platforms with transverse mounting. Emissions compliance is achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling Euro 6 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under extended service intervals or with poor fuel quality, as noted in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2016-04-02. Premature wear can lead to hard starting and misfire codes. From 2016 onward, revised pump calibration and updated ECU mapping were introduced to improve durability and cold-start reliability.
All CDLA models comply with Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi CDLA is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel developed for transverse-mounted applications in compact Audi models (2013–2019). It combines Bosch CRS 2-20 common-rail injection with a Garrett variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive torque and efficient operation. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it integrates SCR/AdBlue technology for NOx control while maintaining drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (VGT) | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1544V) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (long-life, non-serviceable) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-05 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 146 kg |
The CDLA provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Audi Longlife-05 (5W-30) oil to maintain fuel pump and turbo longevity. The Bosch HPFP is sensitive to fuel quality; use only EN 590-compliant ultra-low-sulfur diesel to prevent premature wear. AdBlue system maintenance is essential—low levels trigger reduced power mode. EGR and DPF systems require regular highway runs to prevent clogging; prolonged city driving increases regeneration frequency. Post-2016 models feature updated ECU calibrations improving cold-start reliability and fuel economy.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-05 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2014-07-02). Replaces earlier Longlife-04 in diesel applications.
Emissions: All CDLA engines meet Euro 6 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). No Euro 5 variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output remains consistent across markets; SCR system ensures NOx compliance without power reduction.
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32100, A32450, SIB 2016-04-02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CDLA was used across Audi's 8X/8V/8U platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volkswagen Group siblings. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A1 and revised cooling routing in the Q3-and from 2016 the facelifted A3 8V.5 adopted updated ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. Partnerships within the Volkswagen Group enabled shared use in Volkswagen and Škoda models with identical core architecture. 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 cover (Audi TIS A32150). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for CDLA series). All CDLA models feature a blue AdBlue filler cap on the right rear of the engine bay. Critical differentiation from CAYB: CDLA includes SCR/AdBlue system and revised ECU calibration post-2016. Service parts require model-year verification—DPF and EGR components differ between pre- and post-2016 variants (Audi SIB 2016-05-11).
The CDLA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear in vehicles with extended service intervals or poor fuel quality. Internal Audi field reports from 2017 indicated a measurable increase in HPFP failures in pre-2016 Euro 6 models, while UK DVSA MOT data shows DPF-related failures rising in city-driven examples. Infrequent highway driving and low AdBlue levels exacerbate emissions system faults, making regular operation and fluid top-ups critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2013–2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CDLA.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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