The Audi CTXA is a 1,984 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2017 and 2021. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group’s EA888 Gen 3B engine family, featuring direct fuel injection (FSI), variable valve timing (VVT), and an integrated exhaust manifold for improved thermal efficiency. In standard tune, it produces 140 kW (190 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, delivering responsive performance with strong mid-range pull across Audi’s compact and mid-size lineup.
Fitted to models including the 8Y A3, 8W A4, and 8S Q3, the CTXA was engineered for drivers seeking a refined balance of sportiness and everyday usability. Emissions compliance is achieved via a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 6d-TEMP compliance across its production run—verified under Real Driving Emissions (RDE) testing protocols.
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear under extended oil change intervals or with non-compliant oil viscosity. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2017-15-01, stems from inadequate oil pressure delivery to the front-mounted chain tensioner during cold starts. From 2018 onward, revised oil pump control and updated tensioner design were implemented to mitigate risk, differentiating CTXA from earlier EA888 variants.
All CTXA engines comply with Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6129), verified under RDE testing for real-world emissions.
The Audi CTXA is a 1,984 cc inline-four turbo petrol engineered for compact and mid-size models (2017–2021). It combines turbocharging with direct injection and dual variable valve timing to deliver responsive mid-range performance. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances sporty driving dynamics with modern emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 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 6d-TEMP | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with dual-circuit thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo with integrated exhaust manifold | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted; wear-prone under poor maintenance) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife 05 (SAE 5W-40) or 050 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The EA888 Gen 3B architecture provides strong mid-range torque ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Audi-approved Longlife 05/050 oil to prevent timing chain and turbo bearing wear. Using non-compliant oil or extended intervals increases risk of chain tensioner failure and oil coking in the turbocharger. The integrated exhaust manifold improves warm-up time but can contribute to heat soak under sustained load. Direct injection necessitates periodic intake valve cleaning due to carbon buildup from lack of fuel washing. Post-2018 models benefit from revised oil pump calibration and tensioner design per Audi SIB 2017-15-01. Emissions systems require regular DTC checks to maintain OBD-II compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife 05 (5W-40) or 050 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2017-15-01). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 requirements.
Emissions: All CTXA units meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6129), verified under RDE testing for real-world emissions.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 140 kW output requires 98 RON fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A32601).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32175, A32541, SIB 2017-15-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6129)
ISO 8178-4:2022 - Exhaust emissions measurement for reciprocating internal combustion engines
The Audi CTXA was used across Audi's MQB platform with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for longitudinal applications in select models. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake tracts in the A3 and revised cooling routing in the Q3-and from 2018 the facelifted A4 B9 adopted the updated EA888 Gen 3B variant with enhanced oil control, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A32250). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for EA888 series). Pre-2018 units have a black plastic intake manifold with exposed runners; post-2018 models feature a revised manifold with integrated charge air cooler. Critical differentiation from EA888 Gen 4: CTXA uses a mechanical coolant pump and lacks the cylinder deactivation system. Service parts require production date verification—timing kits for engines before 09/2017 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Audi SIB 2017-15-01).
The CTXA's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2018 indicated a significant share of pre-2018 engines requiring chain inspection before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures linked to oil consumption in poorly maintained units. Cold-start cycles and extended oil intervals increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2017-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CTXA.
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