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 subco…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The CDLA is generally robust when maintained properly. Pre-2016 models show higher incidence of HPFP wear if oil changes are delayed or low-quality diesel is used. All units are Euro 6-compliant with integrated SCR systems. Regular oil changes with Longlife-05 and use of quality fuel are essential for longevity beyond 200,000 km.
Key issues include high-pressure fuel pump wear, DPF clogging from city driving, EGR valve fouling, and AdBlue system faults. These are documented in Audi service bulletins and field reports. Preventive maintenance significantly reduces failure rates.
The CDLA 2.0 TDI was used in the A1 (8X), A3 (8V), and Q3 (8U) from 2013–2019. It was also shared across Volkswagen Group brands, appearing in the Volkswagen T-Roc and Škoda Yeti. In the UK, it was offered as the 140 TDI variant.
Yes. The CDLA responds well to ECU remapping, with stage 1 tunes typically achieving 160–170 PS safely. The stock turbo and fuel system handle moderate increases, but supporting mods like upgraded intercooling improve reliability. Tuning should preserve DPF and EGR functions to maintain emissions compliance.
In real-world conditions, the CDLA achieves 4.3–5.1 L/100km (65–55 mpg UK) on mixed driving. Highway efficiency is excellent at ~4.1 L/100km (68 mpg UK). Urban figures may reach 5.6 L/100km (50 mpg UK) depending on driving style and DPF regeneration frequency.
Yes. The CDLA is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact is likely, resulting in severe internal damage. Although the chain is designed for the engine's life, any abnormal noise from the front cover warrants immediate inspection.
Audi specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting Longlife-05 standards. This low-SAPS formulation protects the turbocharger, fuel pump, and emissions systems. Oil must be changed every 15,000 km or annually to ensure optimal engine protection and longevity.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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.
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