The Audi CLAB is a 1,984 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2017 and 2021. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA888 engine family (Gen 3B), featuring direct fuel injection (TSI), variable valve timing (VVT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune, it produces 140 kW (190 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, delivering responsive performance and strong mid-range driveability.
Fitted to models including the 8V A3, 8S S3, and 8U Q3, the CLAB was engineered for drivers seeking a balance of sporty dynamics and everyday usability. It incorporates both port and direct fuel injection to reduce intake valve coking, while an integrated thermal management system enables rapid warm-up and improved efficiency. Emissions compliance is achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalyst and lambda control, meeting Euro 6c standards across all production years.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive cam, noted in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2017-21-01. This wear stems from inadequate lubrication at the cam follower interface under extended oil change intervals. Later production engines received an updated HPFP assembly and revised oil maintenance schedules to mitigate the risk.
Production years 2017–2021 meet Euro 6c standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6793).
The Audi CLAB is a 1,984 cc inline-four turbo-petrol engine developed for transverse-platform applications (2017–2021). It combines turbocharging with dual injection (direct + port) to deliver smooth power delivery and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 6c emissions standards, it balances performance with improved fuel efficiency and reduced particulate emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 140 kW (190 PS) @ 4,200–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,450–4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | TSI: Direct + port injection (Bosch HDEV5) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6c | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Honeywell GT1749V) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife 04 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 144 kg |
The dual-injection system provides strong mid-range torque and smooth throttle response but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent HPFP cam wear. Audi Longlife 04 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its anti-wear additives protecting the high-pressure pump drive. Extended idling should be minimized to maintain oil pressure at the cam follower. The Bosch HDEV5 fuel pump demands premium unleaded fuel (RON 98) to prevent knock and injector coking. Post-2018 models feature revised HPFP components; pre-2018 units should be inspected per Audi SIB 2017-21-01. PCV system maintenance is critical to prevent oil ingestion and carbon buildup in the intake manifold.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife 04 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2017-21-01). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6c certification applies to all CLAB models (2017–2021) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6793).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires RON 98 fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A34606).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34123, A34317, A34606, SIB 2017-21-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6793)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CLAB was used across Audi's 8V/8U 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 S3 and revised cooling in the Q3-and from 2019 the facelifted A3 Sportback adopted revised emissions mapping, creating minor software incompatibilities. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A34153). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for EA888 Gen 3). Pre-2019 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2019 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EA888 Gen 3A: CLAB features revised HPFP cam profile and updated ECU calibration. Service parts require production date verification - HPFP assemblies before 11/2017 are incompatible with later units due to cam profile redesign (Audi SIB 2017-21-01).
The CLAB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump cam wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in city driving with frequent cold starts. Internal Audi reports from 2018 indicated a significant number of pre-2018 engines required HPFP replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased misfire-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 (2017-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CLAB.
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