The Audi DKLD is a 1,984 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2021 and 2023. Part of the Volkswagen Group's EA888 evo4 engine family, it features a transverse-mounted configuration with a twin-scroll turbocharger, Bosch HDEV6 direct injection operating at up to 350 bar, and a 48 V mild-hybrid system (MHEV) with electric turbocharger assist. Delivering 195 kW (265 PS) and 370 Nm, it combines high specific output with improved transient response and reduced turbo lag.
Fitted to performance-oriented models including the Audi S3 (8Y), S Q3 (8U), and S4 (B9), the DKLD was engineered for dynamic driving and real-world emissions compliance. It meets Euro 6d RDE standards via a three-way catalyst, gasoline particulate filter (GPF), and advanced thermal management with map-controlled thermostat and electric coolant pump.
One documented concern is electric turbocharger (e-TC) control module overheating in certain early-production units due to inadequate cooling in sustained high-load operation. This issue, addressed in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2022-11-03, led to revised heat shielding and updated control software. From 2022 onward, enhanced thermal management and revised e-TC firmware improved long-term reliability across the EA888 evo4 performance series.
All DKLD engines comply with Euro 6d RDE standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9878).
The Audi DKLD is a 1,984 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine designed for transverse high-performance applications (2021–2023). It combines twin-scroll turbocharging with Bosch HDEV6 direct injection and a 48 V mild-hybrid system to deliver strong low-RPM response and improved real-world efficiency. Engineered to meet Euro 6d RDE standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance through advanced thermal management and particulate filtration.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin-scroll, electrically assisted) | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 195 kW (265 PS) @ 5,200–6,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 1,800–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV6 direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d (RDE compliant) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with map-controlled thermostat and electric pump | |
| Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbo with electric assist (Garrett eBooster) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (interference design) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The electric turbocharger provides near-instant boost and reduced lag ideal for performance driving but demands use of VW 504 00 oil to protect the turbocharger and GPF. The HDEV6 fuel system requires TOP TIER petrol meeting EN 228 with proper detergents to prevent injector coking, particularly in early DKLD units. The 48 V MHEV system enables torque-fill during gear changes and energy recuperation, improving real-world fuel economy by up to 8%. The interference valvetrain requires strict adherence to 180,000 km or 10-year timing chain inspection intervals. Real-driving emissions (RDE) compliance depends on consistent highway regeneration to maintain GPF efficiency and prevent clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 505 00 specification (Audi SIB 2021-09-01). Not compatible with ACEA A/B oils.
Emissions: All DKLD engines meet Euro 6d RDE standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9878), including PEMS testing under real-world conditions.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output de-rated if GPF differential pressure threshold exceeded (Audi TIS A58250).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A58250, SIB 2021-09-01, SIB 2022-11-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9878)
ISO 9249:2021 Road vehicles — Spark-ignition engines — Vocabulary
The Audi DKLD was used across Audi's MQB Evo platform with transverse mounting and shared architecture with SEAT and Volkswagen Group performance variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intercooler routing in the S3 and enhanced NVH isolation in the S4-and from 2022 the facelifted S Q3 adopted updated MHEV control logic with improved torque-fill functionality, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A58250). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('D' for DKLD in S3/S4/SQ3). Pre-2022 models have a silver valve cover; post-2022 units use black. Critical differentiation from EA888 evo4 non-electric: DKLD features electric turbocharger housing and 48 V MHEV components, while standard DEUB lacks both. Service parts require model-year verification—e-TC modules for engines before 2022 are not interchangeable with later versions (Audi SIB 2022-11-03).
The DKLD's primary reliability risk is electric turbocharger control module overheating on early-production units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles operating under sustained performance conditions. Internal Audi field reports from 2023 indicated over 6% of pre-2022 engines required e-TC inspection before 120,000 km, while VCA MOT data shows GPF-related failures are common in short-trip usage. Extended idling and poor fuel quality increase stress on injection components, making adherence to service schedules and use of quality petrol critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2021-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2022-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI DKLD.
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