The Audi DNUE is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2020 and 2023. It belongs to the EA288 evo engine family, designed for transverse applications in compact and mid-size Audi models. Featuring common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 360 Nm of torque, with enhanced thermal efficiency and reduced particulate emissions.
Fitted to models such as the A4 (B9), A5 (F5), A6 (C8), and Q5 (FY), the DNUE was engineered for responsive urban performance and efficient highway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and integrated selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling full Euro 6d compliance across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is diesel particulate filter (DPF) substrate degradation under frequent short-trip driving, highlighted in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2021-08-04. Premature soot loading and incomplete regeneration cycles lead to increased backpressure and DPF cracking. From 2022, revised regeneration calibration and updated pressure differential sensors were introduced to improve system longevity.
All production years (2020–2023) meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9123).
The Audi DNUE is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for transverse-mounted applications in compact and mid-size models (2020–2023). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances performance with environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (VGT) | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 3,250–4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with dual-circuit thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Roller chain (two-stage tensioner) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 149 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM response ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent EGR and turbo degradation. VW 504 00/507 00 oil is critical due to its low-ash formulation protecting DPF and SCR systems. Extended idling and short trips increase soot loading, necessitating regular highway runs for passive DPF regeneration. The DPF system is prone to clogging; forced regeneration every 30,000 km helps maintain flow. Post-2022 models feature improved regeneration logic; pre-2022 units should be monitored for backpressure per Audi SIB 2021-08-04. SCR-equipped models require AdBlue top-ups every 12,000 km to maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 specification (Audi SIB 2021-08-04). Low-ash oil essential for aftertreatment longevity.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all 2020–2023 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9123).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 590 (Audi TIS Doc. A36027).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34726, A35107, SIB 2021-08-04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9123)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi DNUE was used across Audi's B9/FY platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A4 and revised EGR routing in the Q5-and from 2022, updated regeneration calibration in A6 and A5 variants created interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A34726). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 2.0 TDI EA288 series). All units feature SCR with AdBlue system. Critical differentiation: DNUE has a Bosch EDC17CP55 ECU with 80-pin connector, while similar EA189 engines use EDC17CP14. Service parts require model-year verification—DPF units before 2022 are incompatible with post-2022 regeneration updates (Audi SIB 2021-08-04).
The DNUE's primary reliability risk is diesel particulate filter (DPF) substrate degradation, with elevated incidence in vehicles used primarily for short urban trips. Internal Audi quality reports from 2022 noted a significant number of pre-2022 units requiring DPF replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA data links DPF-related faults to a notable share of emissions test failures. Frequent cold starts and poor regeneration practices increase thermal stress, making regular highway driving and software updates critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2020-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI DNUE.
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