The Audi CGXC is a 1,968 cc, inline — four turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA288 engine family, featuring common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune, it produces 110 kW (150 PS) and 340 Nm of torque, delivering strong low — end pulling power and efficient highway cruising.
Fitted to models including the 8V A3, B8.5 A4, and 8U Q3, the…
Production years 2015–2020 meet Euro 6b standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6790).
The Audi CGXC is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine developed for transverse-platform applications (2015–2020). It combines a variable geometry turbocharger with common rail injection to deliver strong low-RPM torque and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6b emissions standards, it balances performance with improved fuel efficiency and reduced particulate emissions.
| 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 | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 3,250–4,200 rpm | |
Torque | 340 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Common rail (Bosch CP4, up to 2,000 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Variable geometry turbo (Honeywell VGT) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row, front-mounted) | |
Oil type | Audi Longlife 05 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 158 kg |
The Audi CGXC was used across Audi's 8V/B8.5 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Volkswagen and SEAT under Group platform strategy. This engine received platform-specific calibrations-tuned intake manifolds in the Q3 and revised cooling in the A4-and from 2017 the facelifted A3 Sportback adopted revised emissions mapping, creating minor software incompatibilities. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CGXC's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in city driving with frequent cold starts. Internal Audi reports from 2017 indicated a significant number of pre-2017 engines required HPFP replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased emissions-related MOT failures in urban areas. Short trips and delayed oil changes accelerate wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2015-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2022). 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 CGXC delivers strong torque and good efficiency, but early models (2015–2016) had reliability concerns, particularly HPFP wear. Later revisions (post-2017) improved pump durability, so well-maintained examples can be robust. Regular servicing and using high-quality oil (5W-30 Audi Longlife 05) significantly enhance longevity.
The most common issues are high-pressure fuel pump wear, turbo actuator sticking, EGR/intake carbon buildup, and coolant leaks from the water pump. These are documented in Audi service bulletins and supported by DVSA failure data. Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding major repairs.
The CGXC 2.0 TDI was used in the Audi A3 (8V), A4 (B8.5), and Q3 (8U) between 2015 and 2020. It was also shared with Volkswagen (Golf 7.5 2.0 TDI) and SEAT (Leon 2.0 TDI) under the VW Group platform strategy. All variants meet Euro 6b emissions standards.
Yes. The CGXC responds well to ECU remapping, with stage 1 tunes typically adding +30–40 kW safely. The stock turbo and internals handle increased boost well. Supporting mods like intercooler and exhaust upgrades allow further gains. Tuning should use high-quality diesel (EN 590) to prevent knock and injector coking.
In real-world driving, the CGXC achieves approximately 5.0 L/100 km (city), 4.2 L/100 km (highway), or about 55–60 mpg UK combined. The A3 2.0 TDI typically returns better economy than the Q3 due to lower weight. Expect 50–60 mpg (UK) depending on driving style and conditions.
Yes. The CGXC is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons can strike the open valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. Chain maintenance is critical—any unusual noise from the front of the engine should be investigated immediately.
Audi specifies 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting Audi Longlife 05 specification. Use only VW 505 01-compliant oil and change it every 15,000 km or annually to ensure HPFP lubrication and minimize carbon buildup. Extended intervals increase wear risk.
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.
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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