The Audi CXSA petrol engine is a 1,984 cc, inline-four turbocharged unit produced between 2019 and 2023. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), variable valve timing (VVT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). Delivering 140 kW (190 PS) in standard tune, with peak torque of 320 Nm available from 1,500–4,000 rpm, this engine was engineered for responsive performance and refined driving dynamics in compact and mid-size Audi models.
Fitted across the A3 (8Y), A4 (B9), and Q3 (F3) ranges—including variants like the 2.0 TFSI 190 PS—the CXSA engine was designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards. It combines turbocharging with precise direct injection to deliver strong low-end pull and linear power delivery. Emissions compliance is achieved through gasoline particulate filter (GPF), exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and advanced lambda control, ensuring real-world driving conformity (RDE).
One documented concern involves high-pressure fuel injector deposits, particularly in vehicles with frequent short-trip usage. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2020-07-14, highlights that incomplete combustion cycles and cooler operating temperatures promote carbon buildup on injector tips. From 2021 onward, revised fuel trim adaptation strategies and updated injector calibration were introduced to mitigate flow inconsistencies and maintain combustion efficiency.

All CXSA models (2019–2023) meet Euro 6d emissions standards with GPF-assisted aftertreatment (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Audi CXSA petrol is a 1,984 cc inline-four turbocharged engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (2019–2023). It combines TSI direct injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and smooth high-RPM power. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances performance with regulated environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| 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 @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV6 direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (BorgWarner KP39) | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (long-life design) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-18 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 156 kg |
The single-scroll turbo provides strong low-RPM pull ideal for urban driving but requires regular highway runs to maintain GPF regeneration and thermal stability. Audi Longlife-18 (5W-30) oil is essential to protect the timing chain and reduce LSPI (low-speed pre-ignition) risk in high-compression turbocharged engines. The Bosch HDEV6 high-pressure fuel system demands premium-grade petrol (95 RON minimum) to prevent injector coking and maintain optimal spray patterns. GPF-equipped models require consistent exhaust temperatures to avoid soot accumulation; prolonged idling or short trips increase the risk of GPF saturation and limp mode. Injector cleaning and adaptation resets per Audi SIB 2020-07-14 are recommended every 60,000 km for vehicles with urban driving profiles.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-18 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2020-07-14). Replaces Longlife-15 and meets VW 504 00/505 00 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all CXSA models (2019–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901). GPF is mandatory for compliance.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full torque curve requires fuel meeting EN 228:2012 (98 RON recommended for sustained performance).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A37010, A37500, SIB 2020-07-14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CXSA was used across Audi's 8Y/B9/F3 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A3 (8Y) and revised EGR routing in the Q3 (F3)-and from 2019 the facelifted A4 B9 adopted GPF-integrated exhaust systems, 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 exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A37050). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for CXSA series). All CXSA models feature a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) integrated into the exhaust manifold; no separate DPF-like unit is present. Critical differentiation from EA888 Gen 3: CXSA uses Bosch HDEV6 injectors (350 bar) versus HDEV5 (200 bar) and features revised ECU calibration for GPF management. Service parts require production date verification—EGR coolers for pre-2020 Q3 models are not compatible with B9 A4 units due to revised plumbing (Audi SIB 2020-07-14).
The CXSA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel injector coking, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Audi service data from 2022 indicated over 18% of pre-2021 units required injector cleaning before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show misfire-related faults contributing to emissions test failures. Stop-start driving and cooler climates increase deposit formation, making proactive maintenance and correct fuel usage critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2019-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CXSA.
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