The Audi CXXB is a 1,984 cc, inline — four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2021. It belongs to the EA888 Gen 3B engine family, featuring enhanced thermal management and revised emissions control. Utilizing fuel stratified injection (FSI), variable valve timing (VVT), and a twin — scroll turbocharger, it delivers 140 kW (190 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, offering a balance of responsive performance and efficiency for premium compact and mid — size applicat…
Production years 2016–2018 meet Euro 6c standards; 2019–2021 models comply with Euro 6d-TEMP depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6780).
The Audi CXXB is a 1,984 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine developed for transverse and longitudinal applications (2016–2021). It integrates fuel stratified injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range performance and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet evolving Euro 6 emissions standards, it incorporates a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) and integrated exhaust manifold while maintaining responsive driving dynamics.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin-scroll) | |
Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
Power output | 140 kW (190 PS) @ 4,200–6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,450–4,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection (FSI), Bosch MED 17.8.8 ECU | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6c (2016–2018); Euro 6d-TEMP (2019–2021) | |
Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | BorgWarner K04 twin-scroll turbo | |
Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary) | |
Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 137 kg |
The Audi CXXB was used across Audi's MLB Evo and MQB platforms with transverse or longitudinal mounting and shared with Volkswagen Group brands. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated exhaust in the cylinder head and revised turbo routing in the A5-and from 2018 the updated EA888 Gen 3B variant introduced improved oil flow to the timing system, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CXXB's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2017 noted increased chain guide wear in pre-2018 units before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA data links intake coking 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 (2016-2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The CXXB offers strong performance and efficiency, but early models (2016–2017) had timing chain concerns. Later revisions (post-2018) improved oil flow and tensioner design, enhancing durability. Regular maintenance using VW 502 00 oil and 15,000 km service intervals greatly improves long-term reliability.
Key issues include timing chain wear (especially pre-2018), intake valve coking due to direct injection, turbo actuator failures, and PCV-related oil consumption. These are documented in Audi service bulletins and field reports, with timing chain being the most critical if maintenance is deferred.
The CXXB engine was used in the Audi A4 (B9), A5 (F5), and Q5 (FY) from 2016 to 2021. It was also shared across Volkswagen Group models including the Volkswagen Passat B8 (2.0 TSI). All variants produce 190 PS and meet Euro 6c or Euro 6d-TEMP emissions depending on model year.
Yes. The CXXB responds well to ECU remapping, with stage 1 tunes typically adding +40–50 kW. Stock internals handle increased boost reliably up to 240–250 PS. Supporting mods like intercooler and exhaust improve gains. Tuning should be performed by specialists familiar with EA888 Gen 3B timing risks.
In combined driving, the CXXB achieves ~7.0 L/100km (40 mpg UK). Highway efficiency improves to ~6.2 L/100km (46 mpg UK), while city driving may reach 8.5 L/100km (33 mpg UK). Real-world consumption depends on driving style, but 35–45 mpg UK is typical for mixed use.
Yes. The CXXB is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails, pistons can collide with open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. Immediate attention to chain rattle or oil pressure warnings is essential to prevent engine destruction.
Audi specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting VW 502 00 (petrol) or 505 00 (multi) standards. Use of correct oil is critical for timing chain lubrication. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or one year to maintain engine longevity and prevent premature wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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