The Audi CMEA is a 1,984 cc, inline — four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2023. It belongs to the EA288 evo engine family, designed for transverse applications across Audi and Volkswagen Group models. Featuring direct fuel injection (FSI), variable valve timing (VVT), and a single twin — scroll turbocharger, it delivers 140 kW (190 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, offering a balance of responsive performance and efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Audi A…
All production years (2020–2023) comply with Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9234).
The Audi CMEA is a 1,984 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size transverse applications (2020–2023). It combines direct fuel injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range performance and improved fuel economy. Designed from launch to meet RDE-compliant Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it integrates a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) and advanced thermal management for real-world emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin-scroll) | |
Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
Power output | 140 kW (190 PS) @ 4,200–6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | |
Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled with electric coolant pump | |
Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (BorgWarner) | |
Timing system | Timing chain (lifetime service interval) | |
Oil type | VW 508 00 / 509 00 (SAE 0W-20) | |
Dry weight | 132 kg |
The Audi CMEA was used across Audi's MQB platform with transverse mounting and shared with Volkswagen Group brands. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake runners in the A3 and reinforced mounts in the Q3-and from 2021 the facelifted A4 B9.5 adopted revised thermal management, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CMEA's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator failure, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban driving. Internal Audi reports from 2022 noted increased actuator failures in units exceeding 80,000 km without inspection, while UK DVSA data shows GPF-related faults contribute to a growing share of emissions-related MOT failures. Short-trip driving and low-quality fuel exacerbate deposit formation, making oil adherence and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2018-2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). 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 CMEA is generally robust when maintained properly, but known for turbo wastegate actuator issues beyond 80,000 km. Regular oil changes (0W-20 VW 508 00) and use of high-octane fuel are essential. The timing chain is designed for life, but intake carbon buildup may require cleaning. GPF maintenance is critical for long-term emissions compliance.
Key issues include turbo wastegate actuator failure, intake valve carbon buildup, GPF clogging from short trips, and HPFP wear. These are documented in Audi SIBs 2018-07-09 and 2021-07-14. Fuel quality, oil adherence, and driving style are critical to preventing premature failures in this EA288 evo-series engine.
The CMEA 2.0 TFSI was used in the Audi A3 (8V, 2020–2023), A4 (B9, 2020–2023), Q3 (F3, 2020–2023), and TT (FV, 2021–2023). It replaced earlier EA888 Gen3 engines and was phased out with the introduction of MHEV variants. All applications feature transverse mounting with model-specific tuning and emissions hardware.
Yes. The CMEA responds well to ECU remapping, with stage 1 tunes safely achieving 220–240 PS. The Bosch MED17 ECU is widely supported. Supporting mods like upgraded intercoolers and exhausts allow higher gains. However, increased boost and fuel pressure require careful monitoring to avoid GPF or turbo issues.
Good for a performance petrol engine. In an A4 2.0 TFSI (B9), combined consumption is ~6.5 L/100km (~43 mpg UK). Highway driving can achieve ~5.8 L/100km (~49 mpg). Real-world figures depend on driving style, but 35–45 mpg (UK) is typical for mixed use. Expect higher consumption with aggressive driving.
Yes. The CMEA is an interference engine—failure of the timing chain can result in piston-to-valve contact and catastrophic internal damage. Although the chain is designed for life, severe oil starvation or manufacturing defects could lead to failure. Always maintain correct oil level and quality.
Audi specifies SAE 0W-20 oil meeting VW 508 00 (petrol) or VW 509 00 (MHEV) standards. This low-viscosity oil is critical for variable valve timing, GPF longevity, and cold-start efficiency. Change every 15,000 km or annually to prevent sludge and ensure turbo and injector protection.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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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