The Audi CR is a 1,781 cc, inline-five petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2007. Part of Audi's naturally aspirated 1.8L and 2.0L engine family, it features a 20-valve DOHC configuration and sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI). Delivering 98 kW (133 PS) and 173 Nm of torque, it provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for everyday driving.
Fitted to models including the Audi A4 (B6/B7), A6 (C5), and TT (8N), the CR engine was engineered for refinement and reliability in Audi's compact and mid-size platforms. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing it to meet Euro 3 and later Euro 4 standards. Its iron block and aluminium head construction ensures durability under sustained loads.
One documented service concern is intake manifold runner adjustment (IMRA) mechanism wear, highlighted in Audi Service Bulletin 203 003. This issue affects vacuum-operated flaps that optimise airflow across engine speeds. From 2004, revised flap materials and updated vacuum solenoids were introduced to improve longevity and throttle response.
Production years 2000–2003 meet Euro 3 standards; 2004–2007 models comply with Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Audi CR is a 1,781 cc inline-five petrol engine designed for longitudinal applications (2000–2007). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a 20-valve head and variable intake geometry to deliver smooth power delivery. Engineered to meet Euro 4 standards in later production, it balances refinement with mechanical simplicity.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,781 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-5, DOHC, 20-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 72.6 mm | |
| Power output | 98 kW (133 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 173 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic M3.8.3 sequential MPI | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (2000–2003); Euro 4 (2004–2007) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The CR's naturally aspirated design provides predictable power delivery ideal for relaxed driving, but demands adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 502 00 oil to protect the timing belt and valvetrain. The Bosch Motronic MPI system requires premium-grade petrol (RON 95 minimum) to prevent knock and maintain throttle response. Timing belt replacement is critical at 120,000 km or 6 years; failure results in valve-to-piston contact. The IMRA system requires periodic inspection of vacuum lines and flaps per Audi SIB 203 003, as degraded flaps can cause hesitation and reduced low-end torque.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 specification (Audi SIB 203 003). Compatible with ACEA A2.
Emissions: Euro 3 applies to 2000–2003 models; Euro 4 certification confirmed for 2004–2007 units (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across EU markets with RON 95 fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A25000).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A25000, SIB 203 003
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CR was used across Audi's B6/B7/C5 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for transverse applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A4 and revised cooling routing in the A6-and from 2004 updated IMRA components for improved longevity, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A25000). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 1.8L 20V series). Pre-2004 models use early-design IMRA flaps with black vacuum actuators; post-2004 units feature revised flaps with red actuators. Critical differentiation from 1.8T variants: CR has no turbocharger and uses a naturally aspirated intake manifold. Service parts require production date verification—timing belts for pre-2004 models are not compatible with post-2004 revisions due to tensioner redesign (Audi SIB 203 003).
The CR's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal Audi quality reports from 2008 noted increased IMRA actuator failures in high-mileage units before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows catalyst efficiency as a leading cause of emissions failures. Urban operation and poor fuel quality amplify system stress, making oil and fuel specification adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2000–2007) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2007–2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CR.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with AUDI or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
AUDI Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialAUDI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
