The Audi CXMA is a 1,984 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2021. Part of the Volkswagen Group's EA888 Gen 3B engine family, it was engineered for responsive performance and improved thermal efficiency. Featuring direct fuel injection (FSI), turbocharging, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with variable valve timing, it delivers 140 kW (190 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, meeting Euro 6c emissions standards through integrated exhaust manifold and enhanced PCU calibration.
Fitted to models such as the A4 (B9), A5 (F5), and Q5 (FY), the CXMA was designed for balanced driving dynamics, combining strong mid-range pull with fuel-efficient cruising. Emissions compliance is achieved via an integrated exhaust manifold within the cylinder head, a close-coupled catalytic converter, and advanced engine control unit (ECU) mapping, enabling full Euro 6c certification across all markets from launch. The engine features revised high-pressure fuel pump control and improved thermal management over earlier EA888 variants.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves, identified in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2018-05-01. This issue arises due to the absence of fuel washing over intake ports in direct-injection engines, leading to restricted airflow and rough idle conditions. From 2019, Audi revised ECU strategies to increase cold-start enrichment and idle speed, reducing deposit formation in low-speed driving cycles.
All production years (2016–2021) meet Euro 6c standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
The Audi CXMA is a 1,984 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for mid-size and performance models (2016–2021). It combines direct fuel injection with a single turbocharger and integrated exhaust manifold to deliver responsive power and regulated emissions performance. Designed exclusively for Euro 6c compliance, it balances sporty character with everyday drivability and efficiency.
| 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) @ 3,900–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,500–3,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6c | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with dual-circuit thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo with integrated exhaust manifold (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (integrated in rear cover) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 147 kg |
The CXMA provides strong mid-range torque ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals using VW 502 00/505 00 specification oil to maintain turbo and high-pressure fuel system longevity. The integrated exhaust manifold enables rapid catalyst light-off, reducing cold-start emissions. Carbon buildup on intake valves is common in short-trip driving, requiring periodic cleaning per Audi TIS A41301. Post-2019 models feature revised ECU calibration to mitigate coking. Use of premium unleaded fuel (RON 98) is recommended for optimal performance and knock resistance. Extended idling should be avoided to prevent turbo heat soak.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2016-07-02). Not compatible with ACEA A/B standards.
Emissions: Full Euro 6c compliance across all production years (2016–2021) per VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output consistent across markets; knock sensor feedback adjusts timing based on fuel quality (Audi TIS A41301).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A41301, SIB 2018-05-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5681)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
Volkswagen Group Product Technical Dossier PT-Petrol2016
The Audi CXMA was used across Audi's B9/F5/FY platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for premium applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised cooling layouts in the Q5 and enhanced NVH tuning in the A5-and from 2019 the facelifted A4 B9.5 adopted updated ECU calibration, 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 A41301). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for CXMA series). All CXMA engines feature an integrated exhaust manifold within the cylinder head and a close-coupled catalytic converter. Critical differentiation from EA888 Gen 3A: CXMA has revised ECU calibration, integrated exhaust manifold, and HDEV5 high-pressure fuel pump. Service parts require production date verification—intake valves and injectors for pre-2019 models are compatible with post-revision units, but ECU updates are required for optimal performance.
The CXMA's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup on all models, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway driving. Audi internal quality reports from 2020 noted increased misfire DTCs in vehicles with frequent short trips, while UK DVSA data links intake-related faults to over 14% of petrol-related MOT advisories. Low-speed operation and poor fuel quality amplify deposits, making regular inspection and proper maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2016-2021) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CXMA.
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