The Audi JV is a 1,390 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. Developed as part of the Volkswagen Group's small-engine strategy, it features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection (MPI), and a 16-valve valvetrain. In standard tune, it delivers 63 kW (86 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 132 Nm of torque at 3,800 rpm, designed for light urban vehicles requiring compact packaging and fuel efficiency.
Fitted primarily to entry-level models such as the Audi A1 (8X) and Seat Ibiza Mk5, the JV engine was engineered for economical city driving and low emissions. It meets Euro 5 emissions standards through a close-coupled catalytic converter and integrated lambda control, without requiring exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) or particulate filtration. Its lightweight aluminium construction and low internal friction contribute to its role in urban mobility platforms.
One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in early-production units (pre-2011). Highlighted in Audi Technical Service Bulletin ET 011014, the issue stems from inadequate oil flow to the chain guide rail during cold starts. Audi introduced an updated tensioner and revised oil gallery design in 2011, significantly improving long-term reliability in later builds.
Production years 2008–2010 meet Euro 5 standards; 2011–2015 models comply with Euro 5b (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi JV is a 1,390 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact urban vehicles (2008–2015). It combines multi-point fuel injection with DOHC 16-valve architecture to deliver responsive low-load performance and low CO₂ output. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it prioritises fuel economy and packaging efficiency in entry-level applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 75.6 mm | |
| Power output | 63 kW (86 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 / Euro 5b | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted, wear-prone in early units) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 97 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear. VW 502 00 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and protection for the front-mounted chain system. Cold-start idling should be kept brief to ensure prompt oil pressure to the tensioner. The MPI fuel system is tolerant of lower-quality fuels but performs best with 98 RON. Post-2011 models feature revised oil galleries and tensioner; pre-2011 units should be inspected per Audi TSB ET 011014. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent operating temperature and avoiding short-trip driving.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi TSB ET 011014). Compatible with ACEA A1/B1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2011 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). 2011–2015 models meet Euro 5b with enhanced OBD monitoring.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Audi Group PT-2018).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31022, A31510, ET 011014
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Audi JV was used across Audi's 8X platform with transverse mounting and shared with Seat and Volkswagen under Group commonality. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A1 and revised ECU mapping for automatic variants-and from 2011 the facelifted A1 Sportback adopted the updated tensioner design, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A31022). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for 1.4L MPI). Pre-2011 models have silver valve covers with ribbed timing covers; post-2011 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 1.4 TFSI: The JV has a plastic intake manifold with MPI injectors; TFSI units feature direct injection and turbocharging. Service parts require production date verification - timing chains for engines before 06/2011 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Audi TSB ET 011014).
The JV's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2013 noted a significant share of pre-2011 engines requiring chain repair before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to catalytic converter degradation in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence 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 JV.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with AUDI or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
AUDI Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialAUDI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
