Audi is discontinuing its 5-cylinder engine, code-named EA855, as it will not meet the upcoming Euro 7 emission standards, set to take effect in Europe by late 2026. Upgrading the engine to comply with these new regulations would incur significant costs, at a time when the automaker is shifting its focus towards electrification.

The 2,480 cc engine currently powers the Audi RS3, delivering 394 hp and 500 Nm of torque. Paired with the quattro all-wheel drive system, the car accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. Production of the 5-cylinder engine, which is currently assembled by hand in Hungary, is expected to cease when the current generation RS3 concludes its lifecycle in mid-2027.

The Audi EA855 engine. Photo: Audi

This engine previously featured in the Audi RS Q3 and Audi TT RS in Australia until 2024. Beyond Audi, the 5-cylinder configuration will continue to be used in the limited-edition Cupra Formentor VZ5, launching later this year, with an output of 385 hp and 480 Nm of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. Reports suggest this engine might also appear in the 25th-anniversary edition of the Volkswagen Golf R in 2027.

However, the engine's lifespan in Australia may be extended due to different emission regulations compared to Europe. The new Euro 6d standard will apply to new models from late 2025 and will be fully implemented by 7/2028. This could allow the RS3 to remain on sale until around mid-2028, provided supply continues. Audi and Cupra in Australia have not yet issued an official statement regarding the continuation of the 5-cylinder engine in that market.

Despite the phase-out, Audi demonstrates flexibility in its overall strategy. Marco Schubert, head of global sales, stated that the company is pursuing a "technology-neutral" approach, maintaining various powertrain options. This follows Audi's adjustment of its plans, no longer aiming for a complete transition to electric vehicles in the short term, and instead retaining internal combustion engines until the 2030s.

The Audi 5-cylinder engine has a rich history dating back to 1976 with the Audi 100, before becoming iconic with the Audi Quattro, launched in 1980. This model dominated rally racing with its 2,1-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder engine and quattro all-wheel drive system.

Audi RS5 2026 PHEV. Photo: Audi

Meanwhile, Audi is actively transitioning towards electrified solutions. The new generation Audi RS5 is the first RS model to feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain, boasting 630 hp and 870 Nm of torque, significantly surpassing its predecessor. This model complies with Euro 7 standards and offers lower CO2 emissions. The RS5 directly competes with the BMW M3, a vehicle also moving towards electrification with both pure electric and hybrid versions planned for the near future.

Ho Tan (via Car Expert)