The Audi CSPA is a 1,395 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It forms part of the Volkswagen Group's EA211 engine family, featuring direct fuel injection (TSI), double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. It delivers 81 kW (110 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, primarily used in compact and subcompact Audi models.
Fitted to models such as the A1 (8X) and A3 (8V), the CSPA was engineered for urban efficiency and responsive low-end performance. It features a lightweight aluminium construction and a high compression ratio of 10.5:1, enabling strong fuel economy without sacrificing drivability in city environments. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and lambda control, allowing Euro 5 compliance for early models and Euro 6 for post-2015 revisions.
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear under extended oil change intervals, highlighted in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 01 15 18. The issue stems from inadequate lubrication flow to the chain tensioner during cold starts. From 2015 onwards, Audi introduced revised oil pumps and tensioner designs to mitigate this risk across EA211 TSI engines.
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2019 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi CSPA is a 1,395 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact models (2012–2019). It combines TSI direct injection with a compact turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM performance and efficient fuel use. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances urban agility with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 81 kW (110 PS) @ 5,000–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6 (2015–2019) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (BorgWarner KP35) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted; revised post-2015) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 97 kg |
The compact turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear. VW 502 00 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its shear stability and protection of the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling and short trips increase carbon buildup on intake valves due to absence of port injection. Post-2015 models feature upgraded oil pumps and tensioners; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Audi TSB 01 15 18. Direct injection demands high-octane fuel (RON 95+) to prevent knock under load. Regular use of fuel system cleaners is advised to maintain injector performance.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi TSB 01 15 18). ACEA A3/B4 compliant oils acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2015 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 6 compliance confirmed for 2015–2019 models in UK market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full torque delivery requires stable fuel quality (RON 95+, EN 228).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A13570, A13821, A14012, TSB 01 15 18
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CSPA was used across Audi's 8X/8V platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A1 and revised cooling layouts in the A3-and from 2015 the facelifted A3 models adopted EA211 Evo revisions with updated timing systems, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A13750). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for EA211 series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EA211 Evo: Original CSPA uses Bosch MED 17.5.2 ECU with round diagnostic connector, while post-2015 variants use MED 17.8.8 with rectangular port. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2015 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Audi TSB 01 15 18).
The CSPA's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2016 noted a significant share of pre-2015 engines requiring chain inspection before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records associate intake carbon buildup with failed emissions tests in stop-start driving. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CSPA.
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