The Audi CTTA is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2012 and 2018. Part of the Volkswagen Group's EA288 engine family, it was engineered for optimal efficiency and durability across compact and mid-size platforms. Equipped with common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), it delivers 100 kW (136 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, meeting Euro 5 emissions standards with select post-2015 variants achieving partial Euro 6 compliance.
Fitted to models such as the A1 (8X), A3 (8V), and Q3 (8U), the CTTA was designed for responsive urban driving and efficient highway cruising. Emissions control is achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and in later models, selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling Euro 5 certification for early builds and limited Euro 6 compliance in specific 2016–2018 markets based on VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679.
One documented concern is EGR valve coking due to low-speed driving cycles, identified in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2014-09-03. Carbon buildup restricts valve movement and impairs exhaust flow, leading to DPF regeneration issues and limp mode. From 2015, Audi introduced revised EGR valve coatings and updated engine management calibration to reduce deposit formation.
Production years 2012–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2018 models may have Euro 6 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Audi CTTA is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact models (2012–2018). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive torque and fuel-efficient operation. Designed to meet Euro 5 (and select Euro 6) standards, it balances real-world drivability with regulated emissions performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (VGT) | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 100 kW (136 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012–2015); Euro 6 (select 2016–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (integrated in rear cover) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 156 kg |
The CTTA provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals using VW 504 00/507 00 specification oil to maintain turbo and high-pressure fuel system longevity. The SCR-based emissions system demands regular AdBlue refills and active regeneration cycles; neglect can trigger limp mode. EGR and intake carbon buildup is common in short-trip driving, requiring periodic cleaning per Audi TIS A41276. Post-2015 models feature revised EGR valves; pre-2015 units should be inspected for flow restriction. Use of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) is mandatory to prevent injector coking and fuel pump wear.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2013-08-05). Not compatible with ACEA A/B standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 applies to 2012–2015 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). Euro 6 compliance limited to specific 2016+ variants with SCR.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output consistent across markets; SCR-equipped models maintain torque in high-altitude conditions (Audi TIS A41276).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A41276, SIB 2014-09-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
Volkswagen Group Product Technical Dossier PT-Diesel2014
The Audi CTTA was used across Audi's 8X/8V/8U platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for compact applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A1 and revised cooling layouts in the Q3-and from 2016 the updated A3 8V.5 facelift adopted the CTTA with SCR integration, 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 timing cover (Audi TIS A41276). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for CTTA series). Pre-2016 models lack SCR and AdBlue tanks; post-2016 CTTA units feature SCR dosing module on the exhaust. Critical differentiation from EA189: CTTA has revised piston crown geometry and EGR routing. Service parts require production date verification—EGR valves for pre-2015 models are incompatible with post-revision units due to internal redesign (Audi SIB 2014-09-03).
The CTTA's primary reliability risk is EGR valve coking on pre-2016 units, with elevated incidence in urban driving. Audi internal quality reports from 2016 noted increased DPF regeneration failures in vehicles with frequent short trips, while UK DVSA data links EGR-related faults to over 15% of diesel-related MOT advisories. Low-speed operation and poor fuel quality amplify carbon buildup, making regular inspection and proper fluid use critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2013-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CTTA.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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