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 RS3 (8Y), the ZG engine was engineered for dynamic driving performance and emissions compliance. It meets Euro 6d-ISC-FCM standards through a combination of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), gasoline particulate filter (GPF), and dual-injection technology (port and direct). The engine’s longitudinal layout supports quattro all-wheel-drive configurations across performance sedans and coupes.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) under sustained high-load operation, particularly in early-build units. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2019-41 (Ref. 041901), is attributed to mechanical stress in the cam follower and insufficient lubrication during extended high-RPM use. From 2021, Audi implemented a revised HPFP with enhanced metallurgy and redesigned drive lobe to improve durability.
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 dual-injection system provides strong mid-range torque and reduced carbon buildup but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent high-pressure fuel pump and turbocharger wear. VW 502 00 (5W-40) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection of the VTG turbo and chain-driven components. Extended idling and aggressive warm-up cycles increase thermal stress on the HPFP. Post-2021 models feature updated fuel pumps; pre-2021 units should be inspected per Audi TSB 041901. GPF-equipped models require regular highway runs to support passive regeneration and prevent clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 (5W-40) specification (Audi TSB 041901). ACEA A3/B4 compliant oils acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 6c applies to 2018–2020 models; Euro 6d-ISC-FCM certification applies to 2021–2024 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Audi Group PT-2025).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B48884, B49019, B49126, TSB 041901
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Power Measurement Standard
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.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS B48904). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for EA888 series). Pre-2021 models have silver valve covers with black cam covers; post-2021 units use all-black covers. Critical differentiation from four-cylinder EA888: ZG is an inline-five with distinctive firing note and features a larger turbocharger. Service parts require production date verification - fuel pumps for engines before 06/2021 are incompatible with later units due to internal revisions (Audi TSB 041901).
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI ZG.
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.
