The Audi CTFA is a 1,798 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It belongs to the EA888 Gen 3 engine family, featuring direct fuel injection (TSI), variable valve timing (VVT), and a twin-scroll turbocharger. In standard configuration it delivers 140 kW (190 PS) with 320 Nm of torque, offering a balance of responsive performance and improved fuel efficiency over earlier EA888 variants.
Fitted to models including the 8V A3, 8S S3, and 8Y A1, the CTFA was engineered for compact and performance applications. It meets Euro 6b emissions standards through a combination of precise direct injection, an integrated exhaust manifold, and advanced lambda control. The engine supports start-stop functionality and brake energy recuperation, enhancing urban efficiency while maintaining strong mid-range power delivery.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high-load conditions, particularly in pre-2017 CTFA units. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2016-10-02, is associated with cam follower lobe degradation affecting HPFP actuation. From 2017 onward, revised camshafts and updated HPFP assemblies were implemented across EA888 Gen 3 engines to improve long-term reliability.
Production years 2015–2017 meet Euro 6b standards; 2018–2020 models comply with Euro 6d-TEMP depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CTFA is a 1,798 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine from the EA888 Gen 3 series, designed for compact and performance hatchbacks (2015–2020). It integrates twin-scroll turbocharging with direct injection and variable valve timing to deliver responsive throttle characteristics and improved thermal efficiency. Engineered to meet Euro 6b and later Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances drivability with stringent 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 | 140 kW (190 PS) @ 4,200–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,500–4,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b (2015–2017); Euro 6d-TEMP (2018–2020) | |
| 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 | 141 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides strong mid-range torque ideal for urban and highway driving but requires consistent use of high-octane fuel (RON 95 minimum) to maintain combustion stability 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 relies on precise cam lobe contact; wear can cause rail pressure faults. Post-2017 models feature revised cam followers; pre-2017 units should be inspected per Audi SIB 2016-10-02. 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 2016-07-01). Compatible with ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to 2015–2017 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Euro 6d-TEMP compliance confirmed for 2018–2020 units in UK markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 140 kW output requires RON 95 fuel quality (Audi TIS Doc. A31015).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31010, A31015, A31020, SIB 2016-10-02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test procedure for fuel consumption
The Audi CTFA was used across Audi's 8V/8Y platforms with transverse 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 S3 models-and from 2017 the facelifted A3 8V 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 A31025). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 2.0 TFSI). Pre-2017 models have a single-row chain cover; post-2017 units feature a reinforced cover with updated tensioner. Critical differentiation from EA888 Gen 2: CTFA has integrated exhaust manifold in cylinder head and revised PCV routing. Service parts require model-year verification—HPFP assemblies for pre-2017 engines are incompatible with later revisions due to cam follower redesign (Audi SIB 2016-10-02).
The CTFA'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 2016 indicated a significant share of pre-2017 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 (2015-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CTFA.
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