The Audi CSUA is a 1,798 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It forms part of the EA888 Gen 3 engine family, featuring direct fuel injection (FSI/TSI), variable valve timing (VVT), and a twin-scroll turbocharger. In standard tune it delivers 169 kW (230 PS) with 350 Nm of torque, offering a balance of sporty responsiveness and improved efficiency over prior generations.
Fitted to models including the 8V A4, B8/B8.5 A5, and 8J TT, the CSUA was engineered for dynamic performance and refined daily driving. It meets Euro 5 emissions standards through precise direct injection, an integrated exhaust manifold, and an advanced lambda control system. The engine supports start-stop functionality and recuperation in certain applications, enhancing urban fuel economy without sacrificing throttle response.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under high-load conditions, particularly in early Gen 3 EA888 units. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Bulletin 2014-11-01, is linked to cam follower lobe wear affecting pump actuation. From 2015, revised camshafts and updated HPFP components were introduced across the EA888 series to improve durability.
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6b depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi CSUA is a 1,798 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine from the EA888 Gen 3 series, engineered for performance sedans and coupes (2012–2018). It combines twin-scroll turbocharging with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing to deliver responsive power delivery and improved thermal efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 and later Euro 6b standards, it balances sporty character with regulated emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,798 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin-scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 84.5 mm | |
| Power output | 169 kW (230 PS) @ 5,200–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012–2014); Euro 6b (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | BorgWarner twin-scroll turbo with air/water charge cooling | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (double-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides broad torque availability ideal for spirited driving but demands consistent use of high-octane fuel (RON 98) to maintain performance and prevent knock. VW 502 00 (5W-40) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection for the high-pressure fuel system. Extended idling and short trips can lead to carbon buildup on intake valves due to port omission in direct injection. The HDEV5 fuel pump requires precise cam lobe contact; wear can cause rail pressure faults. Post-2015 models feature revised cam followers; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Audi SIB 2014-11-01. PCV and turbo oil feed lines should be checked periodically to prevent oil consumption.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 specification (Audi SIB 2015-08-03). Compatible with ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2012–2014 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 6b compliance confirmed for 2015–2018 units in UK markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 169 kW output requires RON 98 fuel quality (Audi TIS Doc. A30015).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A30010, A30015, A30020, SIB 2014-11-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test procedure for fuel consumption
The Audi CSUA was used across Audi's 8V/B8 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated starter-generator (ISG) in mild-hybrid variants and revised cooling in high-performance TT models-and from 2015 the facelifted A4 B8.5 adopted updated emissions controls, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover near the alternator (Audi TIS A30025). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 2.0 TFSI). Pre-2015 models have a single-row chain cover; post-2015 units feature a reinforced cover with updated tensioner. Critical differentiation from EA888 Gen 2: CSUA has integrated exhaust manifold in cylinder head and revised PCV routing. Service parts require model-year verification—HPFP assemblies for pre-2015 engines are incompatible with later revisions due to cam follower redesign (Audi SIB 2014-11-01).
The CSUA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage and performance-oriented use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant share of pre-2015 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while VCA MOT data links a portion of fuel system failures to degraded injection timing in urban-driven examples. Frequent high-load operation and poor fuel quality increase pump and cam lobe stress, making fuel specification and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CSUA.
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