The Audi CRLC is a 2,967 cc, V6 twin-turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2018 and 2023. Part of the Volkswagen Group's EA897 evo engine family, it features common rail direct injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable geometry turbocharging on both turbos. Delivering 176 kW (240 PS) and 500 Nm of torque, it provides strong low-end response and refined performance for Audi's premium SUV and sedan lineup.
Fitted to models including the Audi A6 (C8), A7 (C8), and Q8 (4M), the CRLC engine was engineered for high-speed cruising and towing capability. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, allowing it to meet Euro 6d emissions standards across all markets in accordance with EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007.
One documented enhancement is the revised high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) design introduced in 2019 per Audi Service Information Bulletin 2019-07. This update addressed early wear patterns in the HPFP drive mechanism by reinforcing internal components and improving lubrication pathways. The CRLC also features an integrated exhaust manifold within the cylinder heads to reduce turbo lag and improve thermal efficiency.
All production years (2018–2023) meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9345).
The Audi CRLC is a 2,967 cc V6 twin-turbo diesel engineered for longitudinal premium platforms (2018–2023). It combines common-rail direct injection with sequential twin variable-geometry turbochargers to deliver strong torque and refined performance. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances high-speed stability with urban drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,967 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 176 kW (240 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with map-controlled thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Sequential twin variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V + GT1549V) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (lifetime service interval) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The CRLC's sequential twin-turbo system provides seamless power delivery from low RPM to high load, but demands adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 504 00/507 00 oil to protect the HPFP and turbochargers. The Bosch CRS 2-20 fuel system requires ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent injector and pump wear. The timing chain is designed for the life of the engine under normal conditions; however, oil neglect can lead to tensioner wear. SCR-equipped models require periodic AdBlue refills and must complete regular highway drives to maintain DEF system functionality. EGR and DPF systems need active regeneration cycles; short-trip driving may necessitate forced regens to prevent clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 specification (Audi SIB 2019-07). Compatible with ACEA C3.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all CRLC models (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9345).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across EU markets with EN 590 diesel (Audi TIS Doc. A33000).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A33000, A33075, SIB 2019-07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9345)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CRLC was used across Audi's C8/4M platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for premium applications. This engine received platform-specific calibrations-shorter intake runners in the A6 and revised cooling routing in the Q8-and from 2019 updated HPFP design for improved longevity, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the right-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A33000). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for EA897 series). All CRLC units feature SCR with AdBlue tank and blue filler cap. Critical differentiation from EA897 variants: CRLC has sequential twin VGT turbos, ECU mapping (05E906056CH), and revised HPFP. Service parts require production date verification—fuel pumps for pre-2019 models are not compatible with post-2019 revisions due to internal redesign (Audi SIB 2019-07).
The CRLC's primary reliability risk is EGR and DPF clogging in vehicles used for short-trip driving. Internal Audi quality reports from 2021 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 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 (2018–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2023–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CRLC.
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