The Audi CFGC is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2011 and 2018. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA288 engine family, designed as a successor to the EA189 series with enhanced emissions control and improved fuel efficiency. Featuring common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, offering strong low-end response and real-world economy.
Fitted to models including the A3 (8V), A4 (B8/B9), Q3, and Škoda Octavia Mk3, the CFGC was engineered for compliance with stringent Euro 5 and early Euro 6 standards. Emissions control is achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection in certain markets, enabling lower NOx output. Its compact design allows transverse and longitudinal mounting across multiple platforms.
One documented reliability concern is EGR and intake manifold carbon buildup, particularly in vehicles used for frequent short trips. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2014-023, stems from incomplete DPF regeneration cycles leading to soot carryover into the intake tract. Revised EGR valve calibration and updated engine management software were introduced in 2015 to mitigate this condition.
Production years 2011–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CFGC is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (2011–2018). It integrates common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive torque and efficient fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance through advanced aftertreatment systems.
| 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 @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP3 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1544V) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (service interval: 180,000 km or 10 years) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The CFGC's VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban and motorway use, but requires regular highway runs to complete DPF regeneration and prevent EGR/DPF clogging. VW 504 00/507 00 oil is essential for injector and pump longevity due to its low-ash formulation. Fuel quality is critical—ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) must be used to avoid high-pressure pump wear. The timing belt must be replaced at 180,000 km or 10 years, whichever comes first, per Audi SIB 2013-012. Post-2015 models feature revised EGR valve calibration and updated DPF regeneration logic to improve reliability in mixed driving conditions.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 specification (Audi SIB 2013-012). Not compatible with ACEA A/B standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 applies to pre-2015 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Euro 6 compliance from 2015 onward varies by market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output assumes EU3+ diesel quality (Volkswagen Group PT-2013).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35812, SIB 2013-012, SIB 2014-023
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CFGC was used across Audi's 8V/B8/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 2015 the facelifted B9 A4 adopted updated EGR and DPF calibrations, 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 A35812). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 2.0 TDI EA288 series). Pre-2015 units have silver valve covers; post-2015 models use black. Critical differentiation from CDYA: CFGC has Bosch CP3 HPFP with square fuel rail connector and updated ECU calibration. Service parts require production date verification—timing belts for pre-2015 models are incompatible with post-facelift B9 units due to tensioner redesign (Audi SIB 2013-012).
The CFGC's primary reliability risk is EGR and intake carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban and short-trip usage. Internal Audi quality reports from 2016 noted increased EGR valve failure rates in pre-2015 builds, while UK DVSA MOT data links a significant portion of emissions-related failures to DPF clogging in stop-start traffic. Extended service intervals and low-quality diesel amplify fuel system stress, making maintenance adherence and driving pattern critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2011-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CFGC.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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