Audi Engine Specifications Database: Displacements, Horsepower & Codes
You’re at a car meet, and someone asks, “Is that the EA888 or the EA839?” You smile, because you know exactly which engine is under the hood—and what it’s capable of.
TLDR: Audi’s engine lineup spans from efficient 2.0L four-cylinders to powerful V6 and V8 units, each with specific engine codes like EA888 and EA839. Understanding these designations helps with maintenance, repairs, and appreciating the engineering behind your German luxury vehicle.
Audi’s engine family is a fascinating mix of engineering heritage and cutting-edge technology. Whether you’re driving a spirited A4 with a turbocharged four-cylinder or commanding a Q8 with a potent V6, each powerplant has a story to tell. This guide breaks down the key engine families, their specifications, and what those cryptic engine codes actually mean.
Key Takeaways
- Audi’s two-digit number system (40, 45, 55) represents power output ranges, not displacement
- The EA888 engine is Audi’s versatile 2.0L turbo four-cylinder found across many models
- The EA839 is the modern 3.0L V6 replacing the older supercharged 3.0L
- Engine codes like DLV, CYP, or CGW identify specific variants and are crucial for ordering parts
- Audi has an iconic five-cylinder history—though largely discontinued, it still powers the RS3
Decoding Audi Engine Designations
Ever wondered what those numbers on the back of an Audi actually mean—like 40 TFSI or 55 TFSI?
Audi has moved away from using engine displacement as the primary badge. Instead, they now use a two-digit number that represents a power output range, not the engine size itself . This allows for easier comparison between gasoline, diesel, hybrid, and electric vehicles.
| Designation | Power Output Range |
|---|---|
| 35 | 110-120 kW (150-163 hp) |
| 40 | 140-150 kW (190-204 hp) |
| 45 | 165-180 kW (224-245 hp) |
| 55 | 250+ kW (340+ hp) |
This system is used in most markets, including Canada and Europe, but S and RS models retain their traditional badging .
Audi’s Engine Families Explained
The Ubiquitous EA888 (2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder)
If there’s one engine that powers more Audis than any other, this is it.
The EA888 is the backbone of Audi’s gasoline lineup. This 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder is found in everything from the A4 to the Q5 and even the Q8 in some markets . It’s often called the “golden engine” of the Volkswagen Group because it’s so widely used and continuously refined.
Key Specifications:
- Displacement: 1,984 cc
- Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder
- Aspiration: Turbocharged with direct injection
- Common Applications: A4, A5, A6, Q5, Q3
Variants and Outputs:
| Variant | Power | Torque | Found In |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35 TFSI | 110 kW (150 hp) | 270 Nm | A4, Q3 |
| 40 TFSI | 140 kW (190 hp) | 320 Nm | A4, A6, Q5 |
| 45 TFSI | 165-180 kW (224-245 hp) | 350-370 Nm | A4, A6, A5 |
| 2.0 TFSI (Q8) | 195 kW (265 hp) | 370 Nm | Q8 |
The EA888 has evolved through several generations. The latest versions feature a B-cycle combustion process designed for efficiency in everyday driving, plus a gasoline particulate filter to reduce emissions .
The Premium EA839 (3.0L V6)
For those who want more cylinders and a smoother, more powerful experience.
The EA839 is Audi’s modern 3.0L V6, replacing the older supercharged EA837. It uses a turbocharger instead of a supercharger, which improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions . This engine often comes with a 48V mild-hybrid system for added efficiency and smoother start-stop operation.
Key Specifications:
- Displacement: 2,995 cc
- Configuration: V6
- Aspiration: Turbocharged
- Common Applications: A6, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, S4, S5
Outputs:
- A6 Sedan 55 TFSI: 270 kW (367 hp), 550 Nm
- Q8 3.0 TFSI: 250 kW (340 hp), 500 Nm
- S4/S5: Typically around 260 kW (349 hp) in some markets
The EA839 employs advanced tech like a dual-injection system and a clever dual-cycle combustion process (Miller cycle for efficiency, Atkinson for power) to balance performance and economy .
The Iconic Five-Cylinder
This engine is pure Audi heritage—and it still lives on in the RS3.
Audi’s five-cylinder engines have a legendary status, tracing back to the rally dominance of the 1980s . While largely replaced by four- and six-cylinder units, the five-cylinder remains a badge of honor for Audi enthusiasts.
Did You Know? The five-cylinder engine was produced from 1976 through the late 1990s, with displacements ranging from 1.9L to 2.5L. It was known for its distinctive sound and robust power delivery .
Today, a modern 2.5L five-cylinder turbo powers the RS3 and TT RS, producing over 400 horsepower—a fitting tribute to its rally-winning ancestors.
Engine Codes: Why They Matter
Engine codes are more than just letters—they’re essential for ordering the right parts, performing maintenance, or diagnosing issues.
For example, the A6 C5 Avant 2.7T uses engine codes AJK or AZA . An A4 Avant with a 2.0 TFSI might have code DLV or DMTA depending on the version .
When you’re at the parts counter, the engine code is often more important than the model year.
Comparison Table: Audi Engine Families
| Engine Family | Configuration | Displacement | Common Applications | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EA888 | Inline 4-cylinder | 1.984L (2.0L) | A4, A5, Q5, Q3 | Turbocharged, direct injection, B-cycle option |
| EA839 | V6 | 2.995L (3.0L) | A6, A7, Q7, Q8, S models | Turbocharged, 48V MHEV, dual-injection |
| 3.0 TDI | V6 Diesel | 2.967L | A4, A6, Q5, Q7 | Turbo diesel, high torque, efficiency |
| 2.0 TDI | Inline 4-cylinder Diesel | 1.968L | A4, A6, Q3 | Common rail, aluminum block options |
Model-Specific Engine Specifications
Audi A4 Engine Lineup
| Badge | Engine | Displacement | Power | Torque | 0-100 km/h |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 TDI | 2.0 TDI | 1,968 cc | 100 kW (136 hp) | 320 Nm | 9.5 sec |
| 35 TDI | 2.0 TDI | 1,968 cc | 120 kW (163 hp) | 380 Nm | 8.2 sec |
| 40 TDI | 2.0 TDI | 1,968 cc | 140 kW (190 hp) | 400 Nm | 7.7 sec |
| 35 TFSI | 2.0 TFSI | 1,984 cc | 110 kW (150 hp) | 270 Nm | 8.9 sec |
| 40 TFSI | 2.0 TFSI | 1,984 cc | 140 kW (190 hp) | 320 Nm | 7.3 sec |
| 45 TFSI | 2.0 TFSI | 1,984 cc | 180 kW (245 hp) | 370 Nm | 5.8 sec |
| 45 TDI | 3.0 TDI | 2,967 cc | 170 kW (231 hp) | 500 Nm | 6.0 sec |
Audi A6 Engine Lineup
| Badge | Engine | Displacement | Power | Torque | 0-100 km/h |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 TDI | 2.0 TDI (150 kW) | 1,968 cc | 150 kW (204 hp) | 400 Nm | 7.8 sec |
| 45 TDI | 3.0 TDI | 2,967 cc | 220 kW (299 hp) | 580 Nm | 5.2 sec |
| 40 TFSI | 2.0 TFSI | 1,984 cc | 150 kW (204 hp) | 340 Nm | 8.2 sec |
| 45 TFSI | 2.0 TFSI (200 kW) | 1,984 cc | 200 kW (272 hp) | 400 Nm | 5.8 sec |
| 55 TFSI | 3.0 TFSI | 2,995 cc | 270 kW (367 hp) | 550 Nm | 4.7 sec |
Audi Q5 / Q7 / Q8 Highlights
- Q5 2.0 TFSI: 165 kW (221 hp), 350 Nm
- Q5 3.0 TDI: 180 kW (241 hp), 580 Nm
- Q8 2.0 TFSI (EA888): 195 kW (265 hp), 370 Nm
- Q8 3.0 TFSI (EA839): 250 kW (340 hp), 500 Nm
- Q7 3.0 TFSI: 250 kW (340 hp), 500 Nm
“Audi’s engine codes like EA888 and EA839 are more than just numbers—they represent decades of engineering refinement and a commitment to performance.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What does TFSI stand for in Audi engines?
TFSI stands for Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection—Audi’s technology that combines turbocharging with direct fuel injection for better efficiency and power .
What is the difference between TFSI and TDI?
TFSI engines run on gasoline (petrol) and use a turbocharger with direct injection. TDI engines are Turbocharged Direct Injection diesels, known for high torque and fuel efficiency.
What is the EA888 engine?
The EA888 is Audi’s 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the most widely used gasoline engine in the Volkswagen Group. It powers models from the A3 to the Q5 and even the Q8 in some markets .
What Audi engines have timing chain issues?
Some older EA888 engines (Gen 1 and 2) were known for timing chain tensioner failures. Later generations have improved designs. Always check service history when buying a used Audi.
What does the number on Audi badges mean (e.g., 40 TFSI)?
The number represents a power output range, not the engine size. 40 indicates approximately 140-150 kW (190-204 hp), while 45 indicates 165-180 kW (224-245 hp) .
Where can I find my Audi’s engine code?
The engine code is typically found on a sticker in the spare wheel well, in the service booklet, or on a label in the driver’s side door jamb. It’s also visible on the engine block itself.
References
Additional Resources & Official Information:
- Audi Official Website
- Audi Canada – Engine Designation Guide
- Car and Driver – Audi Reviews
- AudiWorld – Owner Forums & Technical Discussions
Which Audi engine is your favorite—the versatile EA888 or the powerful EA839? Share your experience in the comments below!
