The Audi CGXA is a 1,968 cc, inline — four turbo — diesel engine produced between 2012 and 2018. Part of the Volkswagen Group's EA288 engine family, it features advanced emissions control and improved fuel efficiency over its EA189 predecessor. Equipped with common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, with refined low — end response for urban and highway use.
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Production years 2012–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2018 models comply with Euro 6 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi CGXA is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (2012–2018). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger and integrated exhaust manifold to deliver responsive torque and improved emissions performance. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards in later production, it balances urban drivability with long-distance refinement.
| 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) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012–2015); Euro 6 (2016–2018) | |
Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled with map-controlled thermostat | |
Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1544V) | |
Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 150,000 km or 6 years) | |
Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 142 kg |
The Audi CGXA was used across Audi's 8V/B8/B9 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for transverse applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated exhaust routing in the A3 and revised cooling layout in the A4-and from 2016 updated SCR integration for Euro 6 compliance, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CGXA's primary reliability risk is EGR and DPF clogging in vehicles used for short-trip driving. Internal Audi quality reports from 2017 noted increased EGR valve failures in urban-driven units before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows DPF-related failures as a leading cause of emissions test failures. Cold climates and poor fuel quality amplify system stress, making regular highway runs and fuel additive use critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2024). 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 CGXA offers strong fuel economy and smooth performance, with improved reliability over earlier EA189 engines. The revised HPFP and Euro 6 emissions system enhance durability, but SCR-equipped models require regular highway driving to maintain AdBlue system health. Strict maintenance, use of quality diesel (EN 590), and adherence to oil and timing belt intervals are essential for long-term reliability.
Key issues include EGR/DPF clogging, timing belt failure, oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, and AdBlue system faults in SCR-equipped models. These are documented in Audi service bulletins, particularly SIB 2013-10 for HPFP improvements. Urban driving exacerbates EGR and DPF issues, while cold climates increase AdBlue-related risks.
The CGXA engine was used in the Audi A3 (8V, 2013–2018), A4 (B8/B9, 2012–2018), Q3 (8U, 2012–2018), and TT (8S, 2014–2018). It was phased out in favour of updated EA288 evo variants with improved emissions and efficiency post-2018.
Yes, the CGXA responds well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes typically achieve 160–170 PS safely. However, increased fuel pressure and turbo boost stress the HPFP and EGR system, so supporting modifications and high-quality maintenance are strongly advised to maintain reliability.
In mixed driving, the CGXA achieves approximately 4.8–5.3 L/100km (55–60 mpg UK). Highway efficiency is around 4.3 L/100km (65 mpg UK), while city driving may reach 5.8 L/100km (49 mpg UK). Real-world figures depend on driving style, vehicle weight, and condition of emissions systems.
Yes, the CGXA is an interference engine. If the timing belt fails, pistons will contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. Adhering to the 150,000 km or 6-year replacement interval is critical to avoid costly repairs.
Audi specifies VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) synthetic oil. This low-ash formulation is essential for DPF and SCR system protection and HPFP longevity. Oil changes should be performed every 15,000 km or annually to maintain engine health and prevent sludge buildup.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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