The Audi CTVA is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2018 and 2023. Part of the Volkswagen Group’s EA288 evo diesel engine family, it features common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts. It delivers 110 kW (150 PS) with 360 Nm of torque, meeting stringent Euro 6d emissions standards through a combination of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A4 (B9), A6 (C8), and Q5 (FY) models, including the A4 2.0 TDI, A6 2.0 TDI, and Q5 40 TDI trims, the CTVA engine was engineered for refined performance and long-distance efficiency. Its evolved modular diesel system allows for precise combustion control and reduced NOx emissions under real-world driving conditions. The engine incorporates 48V mild-hybrid technology (MHEV) to support coasting, energy recuperation, and enhanced start-stop functionality.
One documented concern is intermittent DPF regeneration failure, particularly in vehicles used for frequent short trips. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2019-11, is attributed to insufficient thermal cycles preventing passive regeneration. From 2020, Audi introduced revised ECU calibration and updated DPF monitoring logic to improve regeneration reliability, with later models showing reduced frequency of DPF-related fault codes.
Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi CTVA is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine engineered for mid-size and premium models (2018–2023). It combines common rail fuel delivery with variable geometry turbocharging and 48V MHEV integration to deliver responsive torque and improved efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances performance with real-world emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged with variable geometry turbo (VGT) | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 3,250–4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 1,500–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d (RDE compliant) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell VTG 17) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (interval: 200,000 km or 10 years) | |
| Oil type | VW 505 01 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The VGT system provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for daily driving but requires regular highway runs to maintain DPF functionality and prevent regeneration faults. VW 505 01 (5W-30) oil is essential for longevity, particularly in mixed driving conditions. Turbocharger longevity depends on proper warm-up and cool-down cycles. The SCR system requires periodic AdBlue refills and is sensitive to fuel quality; use of non-compliant diesel increases risk of injector coking and DPF blockage. Post-2020 models feature updated DPF calibration; pre-2020 units should be inspected per Audi SIB 2019-11. Emissions systems require adaptation resets after battery disconnection or long-term storage.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 505 01 / 507 00 specification (Audi SIB 2019-11). Compatible with ACEA C2/C3.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all models (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output maintained with EN 590 diesel (Audi TIS Doc. A27030).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A26701, A27153, SIB 2019-11
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
ECE Regulation 85: Uniform provisions concerning the approval of vehicles with regard to emissions
The Audi CTVA was used across Audi's B9/C8/FY platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for transverse applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised cooling routing in the A6 and integrated MHEV components in the Q5-and from 2020 the facelifted A4 models adopted the updated DPF monitoring system, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A26890). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for EA288 evo series). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers with ribbed plastic timing covers; post-2020 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EA288 variants: Original CTVA uses Bosch EDC17CP61 ECU with trapezoidal diagnostic port, while later CKRB uses EDC17C85 with rectangular port. Service parts require production date verification - DPF sensors for engines before 09/2019 are incompatible with later units due to calibration and connector changes (Audi SIB 2019-11).
The CTVA's primary reliability risk is DPF regeneration failure on neglected units, with elevated incidence in mixed urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2020 indicated a notable share of pre-2020 engines requiring DPF cleaning or regeneration reset before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to DPF saturation in city-driven vehicles. Short-trip cycles and delayed maintenance increase DPF and SCR stress, making interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CTVA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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