The Audi DFHA is a 2,967 cc, V6 turbo — diesel engine produced between 2019 and 2023. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA898 engine family, designed for high torque output and refined performance in premium SUVs and executive sedans. Featuring common rail direct injection, a twin — turbocharger system (sequential setup), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), it delivers 170 kW (231 PS) and 500 Nm of torque, with strong low — end pull and smooth power delivery across the rev…
All production years (2019–2023) comply with Euro 6d standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi DFHA is a 2,967 cc V6 turbo-diesel engineered for executive and luxury SUV models (2019–2023). It combines common-rail direct injection with a sequential twin-turbocharger system to deliver strong low-RPM torque and refined high-speed performance. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances power, refinement, and environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,967 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged (sequential) | |
Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 91.4 mm | |
Power output | 170 kW (231 PS) @ 3,250–4,250 rpm | |
Torque | 500 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CRS 3-25 common-rail (up to 2,500 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d (2019–2023) | |
Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled with dual-circuit thermal management | |
Turbocharger | Sequential twin-turbo (Garrett GT1749V + GT1544V) | |
Timing system | Triple-row chain (front-mounted; updated drive gear) | |
Oil type | Audi Longlife-18 (SAE 0W-30) | |
Dry weight | 210 kg |
The Audi DFHA was used across Audi's C8/D5/4M platforms with longitudinal mounting in quattro variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised cooling layouts in the Q7 and enhanced thermal shielding in the A8-and from 2021 the facelifted A6 C8.5 adopted the updated EA898 evo variant with improved SCR dosing, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The DFHA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump drive wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in cold climates and short-trip driving. Internal Audi quality reports from 2020 indicated a notable number of pre-2021 engines requiring fuel pump replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a significant share of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR and DPF clogging in city-driven vehicles. Frequent cold starts and extended idling increase stress on fuel system components, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2019–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2023). 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 DFHA delivers strong torque and smooth performance, but early models (2019–2020) had concerns with high-pressure fuel pump drive wear. Later revisions (post-2021) improved durability with updated gear design. Well-maintained engines with regular oil changes using Audi Longlife-18 (0W-30) can exceed 200,000 km. Adherence to service intervals is critical for long-term reliability.
The most documented issues are high-pressure fuel pump drive gear wear, turbo actuator sticking, EGR and intake carbon buildup, and oil leaks from valve/timing covers. These are confirmed in Audi service bulletins and field reports. Regular maintenance significantly reduces the risk of major failures.
The DFHA engine was used in the A6 (C8), A7 (C8), A8 (D5), and Q7 (4M) models from 2019 to 2023. It was available in 50 TDI trim, primarily in European and North American markets. All models comply with Euro 6d emissions standards.
Yes. The DFHA responds well to ECU remapping, with stage 1 tunes typically adding +35–50 kW safely. Stock internals handle increased torque, but supporting mods (intercooler, exhaust) are recommended for higher stages. Tuning should be performed by specialists familiar with EA898 engine characteristics.
Good for a V6 diesel. In an A6 50 TDI (C8), real-world consumption averages ~7.4 L/100km (city) and ~5.8 L/100km (highway), or ~48 mpg UK combined. Expect 45–50 mpg UK on mixed driving with proper maintenance and efficient driving habits.
Yes. The DFHA is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can strike open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. Immediate attention to any chain rattle or warning lights is essential to prevent catastrophic engine failure.
Audi specifies SAE 0W-30 oil meeting Longlife-18 standards. Use only VW 504 00 or Audi-approved synthetic oil and change every 15,000 km or annually. Proper oil ensures fuel pump drive lubrication and protects the high-pressure fuel system.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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