The Audi NF is a 1,984 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. Part of the Volkswagen Group's EA211 engine family, it features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection (MPI), and a 16-valve valvetrain. In standard tune, it delivers 81 kW (110 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 180 Nm of torque at 3,900 rpm, designed for balanced performance in compact and subcompact vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Audi A3 (8V), Seat Leon Mk2, and Volkswagen Golf 7, the NF engine was engineered for everyday drivability and fuel efficiency. It meets Euro 5 and later Euro 6 emissions standards through a close-coupled catalytic converter and lambda control, without requiring forced induction or particulate filtration. Its lightweight aluminium construction and modular design support transverse front-wheel-drive layouts with ease of service access.
One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, particularly in early-production units (pre-2014). Highlighted in Audi Technical Service Bulletin ET 011015, the issue stems from inadequate damping under thermal cycling. Audi introduced an updated tensioner with reinforced spring preload in 2014, significantly improving long-term reliability in later builds.
Production years 2010–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6b (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi NF is a 1,984 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact platforms (2010–2018). It combines multi-point fuel injection with DOHC 16-valve architecture to deliver smooth power delivery and low CO₂ output. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards, it prioritises durability and serviceability in high-volume applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 81 kW (110 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 3,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 / Euro 6b | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Toothed belt (front-mounted, wear-prone in early units) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 103 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers linear throttle response ideal for daily driving but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. VW 502 00 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and protection for valve train components. Cold-start idling should be kept brief to ensure prompt oil pressure to the hydraulic lifters. The MPI fuel system is tolerant of lower-quality fuels but performs best with 98 RON. Post-2014 models feature revised tensioner design; pre-2014 units should be inspected per Audi TSB ET 011015. 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 011015). Compatible with ACEA A1/B1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2015 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). 2015–2018 models meet Euro 6b with enhanced OBD monitoring.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Audi Group PT-2019).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32023, A32511, ET 011015
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Audi NF was used across Audi's 8V platform with transverse mounting and shared with Seat, Volkswagen, and Skoda under Group commonality. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A3 and revised ECU mapping for automatic variants-and from 2015 the facelifted A3 Sportback adopted the updated tensioner design, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A32023). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('D' for 1.8L MPI). Pre-2014 models have silver valve covers with ribbed timing covers; post-2014 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 1.8 TFSI: The NF has a plastic intake manifold with MPI injectors; TFSI units feature direct injection and turbocharging. Service parts require production date verification - timing belts for engines before 08/2014 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Audi TSB ET 011015).
The NF's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature environments. Internal Audi quality reports from 2015 noted a significant share of pre-2014 engines requiring belt replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to catalytic converter degradation in city-driven vehicles. Extended idling and stop-start cycles increase belt and pulley stress, making interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI NF.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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