The Audi DR is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2021 and 2023. It features common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune it delivers 120 kW (163 PS) and 380 Nm of torque, meeting Euro 6d-ISC emissions standards with integrated aftertreatment.
Fitted to models such as the A4 (B9), A5 (F5), and Q5 (FY), the DR engine was engineered for responsive performance and low CO₂ output. Emissions compliance is achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and dual-loop selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, ensuring NOx levels remain within strict Euro 6d-ISC limits.
One documented concern is EGR valve coking under low-load operation, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2022-20-05. This issue arises from prolonged short-trip driving and low exhaust temperatures, leading to carbon buildup on the valve seat. From 2022 onward, revised EGR cooling calibration and updated valve materials improved resistance to deposit formation in later production runs.
All DR engines comply with Euro 6d-ISC standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9123).
The Audi DR is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2021–2023). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6d-ISC standards, it balances performance, emissions compliance, and fuel economy.
| 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 | 120 kW (163 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 3-20 with CP4 HPFP (up to 2,200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-ISC | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-2018 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires regular highway runs to prevent DPF saturation and EGR clogging. Audi Longlife-2018 (5W-30) oil is essential to maintain timing chain lubrication and reduce sludge formation. The CP4 fuel pump demands consistent fuel levels above 20% to ensure adequate lubrication and prevent premature wear. SCR-equipped models require AdBlue top-ups every 10,000–12,000 km. Post-2022 revisions include updated EGR valve materials and calibration, improving reliability under mixed driving conditions.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-2018 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 22 20 05). Supersedes ACEA C5 standards for improved fuel economy and aftertreatment compatibility.
Emissions: All DR engines meet Euro 6d-ISC requirements (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9123), including real-driving emissions (RDE) testing with in-service conformity (ISC) monitoring.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output maintained across fuel qualities due to closed-loop ECU control and dual-loop SCR (Audi TIS Doc. A35890).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35120, A35401, SIB 22 20 05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9123)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi DR was used across Audi's MLB Evo platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Q5 and revised intake manifolds in the A5—and from 2022 the updated EGR valve and calibration introduced minor 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 A35180). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for DR). All models feature a black valve cover with integrated SCR dosing module and blue AdBlue cap. Critical differentiation from DJHA: DR uses CP4 fuel pump and lacks 48V MHEV system; DJHA includes BSG hybrid components. Service parts require model-year verification—EGR valves and ECUs are not interchangeable between pre- and post-2022 builds (Audi SIB 22 20 05).
The DR's primary reliability risk is EGR valve coking, with elevated incidence in vehicles frequently driven in urban environments with short trips. Internal Audi field reports from 2023 noted over 18% of failed EGR units had histories of prolonged low-load operation, while UK DVSA MOT data shows SCR-related failures are common in city-driven diesels. Poor fuel quality and extended idling accelerate deposit formation, making adherence to driving patterns and maintenance intervals 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 DR.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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