The Audi DS is a 1,390 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2016. It belongs to the EA211 engine family, featuring a transverse mounting layout, four-valve DOHC design, and integrated exhaust manifold. In standard tune it delivers 81 kW (110 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, primarily used in compact front-wheel-drive platforms requiring compact packaging and fuel efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the 8X A1 and 5N A3, the DS was engineered for urban mobility and light-duty use, emphasizing low weight and responsive low-end torque. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalyst and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing the engine to meet Euro 5 standards across European markets without requiring secondary aftertreatment systems.
One documented concern is premature timing belt wear under extended service intervals, highlighted in Audi Service Information Bulletin 01 13 32. Insufficient tensioner maintenance and delayed replacements were linked to belt slippage and cam timing faults. From 2013, revised inspection protocols and updated tensioner materials were implemented to improve durability.
All production years 2010–2016 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/AUD/21145).
The Audi DS is a 1,390 cc inline-three turbo-petrol engineered for compact transverse applications (2010–2016). It combines a compact three-cylinder layout with integrated exhaust manifold and belt-driven valvetrain to deliver responsive city driving performance and thermal efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances cost-effective manufacturing with evolving emissions requirements.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 79.5 mm | |
| Power output | 81 kW (110 PS) @ 5,000–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, single-circuit thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo with vacuum-actuated wastegate | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (replacement interval 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-01 (SAE 5W-40) or 5W-30 LL04 | |
| Dry weight | 97 kg |
The inline-three layout provides compact dimensions ideal for transverse FWD platforms but generates inherent vibration; balance shafts are used to mitigate NVH. Timing belt replacement must strictly follow Audi SIB 01 13 32—failure to replace at 120,000 km or 6 years increases risk of belt fracture. Oil changes every 15,000 km using Audi Longlife-01 or LL04 specification oil are essential for turbo and bearing longevity. MPI system is less prone to carbon buildup than direct injection but requires EGR cleaning to prevent idle instability. Avoid prolonged high-RPM operation to preserve turbocharger oil supply.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-01 (5W-40) or 5W-30 LL04 specification (Audi SIB 01 13 32). ACEA A3/B4 compliance required.
Emissions: Euro 5 compliance applies to all 2010–2016 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/AUD/21145). No GPF or SCR used.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 81 kW output requires RON 95 fuel (Audi TIS A211-1B).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A211-1B, SIB 01 13 32
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/AUD/21145)
European Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Audi DS was used across Audi's 8X/5N platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific tuning—higher idle stability in the A1 and revised EGR calibration in the A3 Sportback—and from 2013 the facelifted A3 introduced updated timing belt tensioner materials, creating service compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the rear of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A211-1B). The 8th VIN digit identifies engine type ('C' for DS in 8X/5N chassis). Visual identification includes black plastic intake manifold and top-mounted turbocharger. Critical differentiation from EA211 Gen 1A: DS uses MPI with external supercharger deleted; Gen 1B variants lack the twincharger system. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts and tensioners differ between pre- and post-2013 builds (Audi SIB 01 13 32).
The DS's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to overdue maintenance, with elevated incidence in high-mileage urban vehicles. Internal Audi field reports from 2015 noted a subset of pre-2013 units requiring belt replacement before 100,000 km due to tensioner degradation, while UK DVSA data shows EGR-related faults increasing in vehicles with frequent stop-start cycles. Extended service intervals and poor oil condition exacerbate component stress, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2010-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI DS.
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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