The Audi CUWA is a 2,967 cc, V6 twin-turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2019 and 2024. It belongs to the EA851 engine family, designed for high torque output and refined performance in premium SUVs and executive sedans. Featuring common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and DOHC valvetrain, it delivers 170 kW (231 PS) and 500 Nm of torque, with overboost capability increasing torque to 550 Nm for short durations.
Fitted to models such as the A6 (C8), A7 (C8), A8 (D5), and Q7 (4M), the CUWA engine was engineered for drivers seeking effortless power delivery, towing capability, and long-distance comfort. It meets Euro 6d emissions standards through a comprehensive aftertreatment system including a diesel particulate filter (DPF), exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection. The engine features a 90° V6 layout with longitudinal mounting, supporting quattro all-wheel drive across multiple platforms.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2020-09, stems from sensitivity to fuel quality and lubrication challenges under low-sulfur conditions. From 2021, Audi revised the fuel filtration system and updated the Bosch CP4-based HPFP internals to improve durability across the EA851 range.
All production years (2019–2024) comply with Euro 6d-TEMP or Euro 6d standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Audi CUWA is a 2,967 cc V6 twin-turbocharged diesel engine developed for longitudinal applications (2019–2024). It integrates common rail injection with sequential turbocharging to deliver strong low-end torque and linear power delivery. Designed to meet stringent Euro 6d emissions standards, it uses SCR/AdBlue technology, iEGR, and a DPF for full compliance while maintaining drivability and refinement in luxury applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,967 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged (sequential VGT) | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 170 kW (231 PS) @ 3,250–4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm (550 Nm overboost) | |
| Fuel system | Common rail (up to 2,200 bar), Bosch CP4.3 | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP (2019–2020); Euro 6d (2021–2024) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Sequential variable geometry turbo (BorgWarner VTG) | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The sequential VGT turbo system provides strong low-RPM torque and reduced lag, ideal for heavy vehicles, but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 504 00-spec oil to prevent timing chain and turbo wear. The Bosch CP4.3 fuel pump is highly sensitive to fuel quality and requires ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent internal wear and failure. Cold-start idling should be minimized to ensure adequate oil pressure at the upper timing chain guide. Post-2021 models feature revised fuel filters and HPFP internals; pre-2021 units should follow Audi SIB 2020-09 for inspection and upgrade. SCR system maintenance is essential to avoid AdBlue-related DTCs and limp mode, particularly on vehicles used for short trips.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2020-09). Critical for chain system longevity.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to 2019–2020 models. Euro 6d compliance verified for 2021–2024 production (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across EU fuel grades meeting EN 590.
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A37200, A37305, A37410, SIB 2020-09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CUWA was used across Audi's MLB Evo platform with longitudinal mounting and shared with Volkswagen Group brands. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated exhaust manifolds and revised turbo routing in the A8-and from 2021 the updated EA851 variant introduced improved fuel filtration and HPFP revisions, 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 transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A37200). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for CUWA in AUDI models). Pre-2021 units have a black plastic cam cover with '3.0 TDI' badge; post-2021 models use revised fuel pump and filter housing. Critical differentiation from EA897: CUWA features sequential VGT turbo and CP4.3 fuel pump. Service parts require production date verification—fuel pumps for pre-2021 engines are incompatible with post-2021 units due to internal revisions (Audi SIB 2020-09).
The CUWA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in regions with variable fuel quality. Internal Audi quality reports from 2020 noted increased HPFP failures in pre-2021 units before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA data links SCR/AdBlue faults to frequent short journeys. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2019-2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CUWA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with AUDI or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
AUDI Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialAUDI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
