The Audi CSUB is a 1,395 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2015. It forms part of the Volkswagen Group’s EA211 engine family, designed for compact and subcompact applications. Featuring multi-point fuel injection (MPI), DOHC valvetrain, and aluminium construction, it delivers 81 kW (110 PS) with 180 Nm of torque. Its lightweight design supports improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions across entry-level Audi models.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A1 (8X) and Audi A3 (8V) models, including the A1 1.4 TFSI and A3 1.4 TFSI trims, the CSUB engine was engineered for urban commuting and efficient daily driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and lambda control, allowing Euro 5 compliance across its production run. The engine supports start-stop functionality and brake energy regeneration in certain configurations.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in early-build units. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2013-15, is attributed to insufficient oil flow during cold starts. From 2013, Audi introduced revised tensioner design and updated oil pump calibration to mitigate risk, with later models showing improved durability under real-world conditions.
Production years 2010–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi CSUB is a 1,395 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact models (2010–2015). It combines MPI fuel delivery with a belt-driven valvetrain to deliver responsive low-end performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances fuel economy with urban drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 79.5 mm | |
| Power output | 81 kW (110 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbocharger (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 5 years) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 97 kg |
The MPI system provides smooth throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 5-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. VW 502 00 (5W-30) oil is essential for longevity, particularly in stop-start conditions. Turbocharger longevity depends on proper warm-up and cool-down cycles. The three-way catalytic converter is sensitive to fuel quality; use of non-alkylate-free petrol increases risk of pre-ignition and knock sensor faults. Post-2013 models feature updated tensioner design; pre-2013 units should be inspected per Audi SIB 2013-15. Emissions systems require periodic adaptation resets after battery disconnection.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 specification (Audi SIB 2013-15). Compatible with ACEA A1/B1.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all models (2010–2015) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output maintained with 95 RON fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A15020).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A13570, A14285, SIB 2013-15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ECE Regulation 85: Uniform provisions concerning the approval of vehicles with regard to emissions
The Audi CSUB was used across Audi's 8X/8V platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for longitudinal applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A1 and revised cooling routing in the A3-and from 2013 the facelifted A3 models adopted the updated tensioner design, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A13890). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for EA211 series). Pre-2013 models have blue valve covers with ribbed plastic timing covers; post-2013 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EA211 variants: Original CSUB uses Bosch ME7.2 ECU with rectangular diagnostic port, while later CSEB uses ME17.5.25 with trapezoidal port. Service parts require production date verification - timing belts for engines before 09/2012 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Audi SIB 2013-15).
The CSUB's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on neglected units, with elevated incidence in mixed urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2014 indicated a notable share of pre-2013 engines requiring belt replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor degradation in city-driven vehicles. Short-trip cycles and delayed maintenance increase tensioner and belt stress, making interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CSUB.
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.
