The Audi NE is a 1,395 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It was developed as part of the Volkswagen Group's modular engine strategy to deliver improved efficiency and reduced emissions in entry-level models. Featuring double overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection (MPI), and variable valve timing (VVT), it produced 55 kW (75 PS) and 132 Nm of torque, offering adequate responsiveness for urban commuting.
Primarily installed in the Audi A1 (8X) and SEAT Mii, the NE engine was engineered for cost-effective ownership and fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run, with later units conforming to Euro 6b specifications depending on market and model year.
One documented reliability concern involves premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 01 14 25, is attributed to suboptimal damping characteristics under prolonged thermal cycling. From 2015, Audi introduced an updated tensioner assembly to improve long-term durability.
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2019 models comply with Euro 6b depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Audi NE is a 1,395 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks (2012–2019). It combines MPI fuel delivery with variable valve timing to deliver responsive urban performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6b emissions standards, it prioritizes fuel efficiency and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 75.6 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6b (2015–2019) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Rubber timing belt (interval: 150,000 km or 5 years) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 97 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 150,000 km or 5-year timing belt service intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage. VW 502 00 (5W-30) oil is essential for camshaft and valvetrain longevity. Use of fuel with minimum 95 RON is required to prevent knock under load. The MPI system is robust but sensitive to carbon buildup on intake valves over time, especially with short-trip driving. Post-2015 models feature revised tensioner design; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Audi SIB 01 14 25. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent warm-up cycles and use of unleaded petrol meeting EN 228 standards.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 specification (Audi SIB 01 14 25). Compatible with ACEA A1/B1 and A5/B5 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2015 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). Euro 6b compliance confirmed for 2015–2019 models in applicable markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting minimum 95 RON (Audi TIS Doc. A32011).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31023, A31545, SIB 01 14 25
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Audi NE was used across Audi's 8X platform with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for use in SEAT and Škoda applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A1 and revised ECU mappings for automatic transmission variants-and from 2015 the facelifted A1 (8X) models adopted updated tensioner hardware, creating service part 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 transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A31201). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for 1.4L MPI in A1). Pre-2015 models have a silver timing cover with ribbed texture; post-2015 units use a smooth black cover. Critical differentiation from 1.4 TFSI: NE engine lacks turbocharger and intercooler, with MPI injectors located in the intake manifold. Service parts require production date verification—timing belt kits for pre-2015 models are incompatible with post-update assemblies due to tensioner redesign (Audi SIB 01 14 25).
The NE's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2014 noted a subset of pre-2015 engines requiring premature belt replacement before 120,000 km, while VCA records show timing-related failures contributing to MOT advisories. Extended service intervals and short-trip driving increase tensioner and belt stress, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI NE.
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