The Audi ZG is a 2,498 cc, inline — five petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2024. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group’s EA888 Gen 4 family, featuring turbocharging, direct fuel injection (TSI), and variable valve timing with dual camshaft adjustment. In standard configuration, it produces 250 kW (340 PS) and 450 Nm of torque, delivering high — performance characteristics suitable for sport — oriented applications.
Fitted to models such as the Audi S4 (B9), S5 (F5), and…
Production years 2018–2020 meet Euro 6c standards; 2021–2024 models comply with Euro 6d-ISC-FCM (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Audi ZG is a 2,498 cc inline-five turbocharged petrol engine from the EA888 Gen 4 series (2018–2024). It combines direct and port fuel injection with dual variable valve timing to deliver strong mid-to-high-range performance and improved emissions control. Designed to meet strict Euro 6 standards, it powers Audi's performance lineup with a focus on responsiveness and driving engagement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,498 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-5, DOHC, 20-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
Power output | 250 kW (340 PS) @ 5,800–6,500 rpm | |
Torque | 450 Nm @ 1,900–5,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Dual injection (direct + port) with high-pressure fuel pump | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6c (pre-2021); Euro 6d-ISC-FCM (2021–2024) | |
Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single turbo with variable turbine geometry (VTG) | |
Timing system | Chain (dual-row; serviceable but wear-prone under high load) | |
Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-40) | |
Dry weight | 168 kg |
The Audi ZG was used across Audi's B9/F5 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the RS3 and revised ECU tuning in the S5-and from 2021 the facelifted S4 B9.5 adopted the ZG evolution with updated fuel pump and GPF, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The ZG's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation on early builds, with elevated incidence in aggressive or track use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2020 indicated a notable share of pre-2021 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of misfire-related MOT failures to fuel trim faults in high-mileage examples. Extended idling and poor-quality fuel increase pump stress, making oil quality and fuel additive use critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2018–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The ZG engine offers strong performance and refinement, but early models (2018–2020) had reliability concerns, particularly high-pressure fuel pump failures. Later revisions (post-2021) improved pump durability, so well-maintained examples can be robust. Regular servicing and using correct oil (5W-40 VW 502 00) significantly enhance longevity.
The primary issues are high-pressure fuel pump wear, ignition coil failures, and intake carbon buildup. Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket are also common on high-mileage units. These concerns are documented in Audi technical bulletins and supported by DVSA failure data. Preventative maintenance is key to long-term reliability.
The 2.5L ZG petrol engine was used in the Audi S4 (B9/B9.5, 2018–2024), S5 (F5, 2018–2024), and RS3 (8Y, 2019–2024) as the 2.5 TFSI (340–400 PS) variant. It was also shared with the Porsche 718 Cayman GTS (2020–2023). All models meet Euro 6c or Euro 6d-ISC-FCM emissions standards.
Yes. ECU remaps can yield +50–80 kW on stage 1 due to conservative factory tuning. The EA888 block and internals are robust, supporting forced induction upgrades. However, ensure HPFP and cooling upgrades accompany higher power levels to maintain reliability.
In combined driving, the ZG achieves approximately 9.2 L/100km (30.7 mpg UK) in the S4 and 9.8 L/100km (28.8 mpg UK) in the RS3. Real-world consumption typically ranges between 25–32 mpg UK depending on driving style and conditions.
Yes. The ZG is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons may contact open valves, causing severe internal damage. Immediate attention to any timing rattle or DTCs is essential to prevent costly repairs.
Audi specifies 5W-40 oil meeting VW 502 00 (petrol) or 505 00 (multi-vehicle) standards. Use only high-quality synthetic oil and adhere to 15,000 km or annual service intervals to ensure proper turbo and chain lubrication and engine longevity.
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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