The Audi CTUB is a 1,968 cc, inline — four turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2018 and 2024. Part of the Volkswagen Group's EA288 evo diesel engine family, it features common rail direct injection (up to 2,500 bar), variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). It delivers 120 kW (163 PS) and 380 Nm of torque, meeting strict Euro 6d — TEMP and Euro 6d emissions standards through integrated SCR/AdBlue dosing, dual — loop EGR, and a gasoli…
Production years 2018–2020 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards; 2021–2024 models comply with full Euro 6d depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi CTUB is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbocharged diesel engine engineered for mid-size and premium SUV models (2018–2024). It combines EA288 evo architecture with variable geometry turbocharging and SCR/AdBlue aftertreatment to deliver strong low-RPM torque and regulatory compliance. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances performance with emissions control in real-world conditions.
| 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 | 120 kW (163 PS) @ 3,250–4,200 rpm | |
Torque | 380 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HPI common rail (up to 2,500 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP (2018–2020); Euro 6d (2021–2024) | |
Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Variable geometry turbo (BorgWarner KP39 evo) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (longitudinal rear-mounted) | |
Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 180 kg |
The Audi CTUB was used across Audi's B9/FY platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific calibrations-revised intake runners in the A5 and enhanced cooling layouts in the Q5-and from 2021 the facelifted A4 models adopted EA288 evo updates with revised EGR cooler routing, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CTUB's primary reliability risk is EGR cooler degradation under sustained high-load operation, with elevated incidence in towing and mountainous driving. Internal Audi quality reports from 2022 noted a significant share of pre-2021 engines requiring EGR cooler replacement before 160,000 km, while UK DVSA records associate EGR clogging with failed emissions tests in mixed driving. Extended idling and coolant neglect increase thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The CTUB delivers strong torque and good efficiency, but early models (2018-2020) had reliability concerns, particularly EGR cooler degradation under high load. Later revisions (post-2021) improved cooler and coolant system durability, so well-maintained examples can be robust. Regular servicing with VW 504 00 oil and avoiding prolonged high-load operation without cooldown greatly enhance longevity.
Key issues include EGR cooler failure (especially under sustained load), EGR and intake carbon buildup, DPF clogging from short trips, and valve cover oil leaks. These are documented in Audi service bulletins and supported by UK MOT failure data. Proper maintenance and driving habits significantly reduce these risks.
The CTUB 2.0 TDI was used in the Audi A4 (B9, 2018–2024), A5 (B9, 2018–2024), and Q5 (FY, 2018–2024). It was phased out in favour of newer diesel architectures post-2024. All applications were longitudinally mounted all-wheel-drive configurations.
Yes. The CTUB responds well to ECU remapping, with stage 1 tunes typically adding +25–35 kW. Stock internals handle moderate boosts, but supporting mods (intercooler, exhaust) are recommended. Tuning should avoid excessive boost to preserve turbo and fuel system longevity.
In combined driving, the CTUB achieves approximately 5.0–5.5 L/100km (57–51 mpg UK). Highway efficiency is better (~4.4 L/100km), while city driving may reach 6.2 L/100km. Real-world economy depends on driving style and aftertreatment system health.
Yes. The CTUB is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can collide with open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. Immediate attention to any timing-related rattles is essential to avoid major engine repairs.
Audi specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting VW 504 00 (diesel) or 507 00 (multi) standards. Use only high-quality synthetic oils designed for turbocharged diesel engines and change every 15,000 km or annually to protect the fuel pump and aftertreatment systems.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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