The Audi DRJA is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA288 evo engine family, designed for modular application across transverse and longitudinal platforms. Featuring common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) in standard tune, with peak torque of 360 Nm available from 1,750 rpm.
Fitted to models such as the Audi A4 (B9), A6 (C8), and Q5 (FY), the DRJA was engineered for responsive urban performance and efficient highway cruising. Its driving character emphasizes strong low-end torque delivery ideal for daily use. Emissions compliance is achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling Euro 6d-TEMP and later Euro 6d compliance depending on model year.
One documented reliability concern involves high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2019-08, is linked to marginal lubrication conditions in the Bosch CP4-based HPFP. From 2020, updated pump components and revised fuel specifications were introduced to improve durability.
Production years 2018–2020 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards; 2021–2023 models comply with Euro 6d depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5683).
The Audi DRJA is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2018-2023). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM performance and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP and 6d standards, it integrates advanced aftertreatment for clean operation.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged with VGT | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 3,250–4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP (pre-2021); Euro 6d (2021–2023) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (BorgWarner KP35) | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (long-life design) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The VGT provides strong low-end torque ideal for daily driving, but requires regular longer runs to prevent EGR and DPF clogging. Use of VW 504 00 / 507 00 (5W-30) oil is essential to minimise ash content and protect the DPF. AdBlue levels must be maintained to avoid SCR system faults and power reduction. The EA288 evo block design is robust, but early units (pre-2020) are prone to HPFP wear under marginal fuel quality. Always follow Audi SIB 2019-08 for fuel system inspection intervals.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 specification (Audi SIB 2019-08). Ashless formulation critical for DPF longevity.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP applies to pre-2021 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5683). Euro 6d compliance confirmed for 2021–2023 models with real-world driving emissions (RDE) testing.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output remains stable with EN 590 diesel fuel. No power increase in later revisions.
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A40012, A40221, SIB 2019-08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5683)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi DRJA was used across Audi's B9/C8/FY platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for longitudinal applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated AdBlue tank in C8 and revised EGR routing in FY-and from 2021 the updated C8 facelift adopted Euro 6d-compliant tuning with enhanced SCR control, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Audi TIS A40012). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for DRJA). Pre-2020 models have a silver valve cover with a single EGR pipe on the intake manifold; post-2020 units feature a black valve cover with dual-pipe EGR routing. Critical differentiation from EA288 non-SCR variants: DRJA has SCR/AdBlue system with tank filler behind fuel cap, while non-SCR variants lack SCR. Service parts require model year verification - HPFP components before 2020 are not compatible with post-2020 revisions due to internal design changes (Audi SIB 2019-08).
The DRJA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, with elevated incidence in early production units. Internal Audi service data from 2020 indicated over 18% of pre-2020 units required HPFP replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show SCR-related faults as a leading cause of Euro 6 MOT failures. Short-trip cycles and infrequent AdBlue refills increase soot and NOx accumulation, making regular maintenance and longer runs critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2018-2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI DRJA.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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