7 Overachieving Audi Engines
Throughout history, some engines have disappointed while others have exceeded all expectations. These are the Audi engines that are known as overachievers.
1. The 2.2L DOHC I-5 Turbo
Perhaps the most beloved engine among Audi enthusiasts, the mighty little 2.2 liter, turbocharged, inline 5-cylinder continues to be a popular option today. The 2.2 produced 232 hp and a very impressive 410 lb-ft of torque straight from the factory, and it's very responsive to modifications. Those solid baseline numbers, combined with the little inline 5's excellent potential as a canvas for improvement, is what makes it an enduring classic and a true overachiever.
2. The 3.0 TSFI DOHC V6 Supercharged
A five-time Ward's Top Engine of the Year, the supercharged 3.0 liter V6 has become a staple in Audi's lineup as V8's continue to take a backseat to smaller motors. The mighty six produces 333 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque and has been one of the most common powerplants installed in modern Audis, and has even seen duty in some Porsche and Volkswagen models.
3. The 2.0 TSFI DOHC I-4
In production since 1972, the little turbo, inline 4-cylinder has evolved quite nicely over the years. Beginning as the EA827, the four banger is now known as the EA113. An astounding 40+ million of the 2.0 liters have been produced over that time frame, which is an amazing feat in itself.
4. The 4.2L FSI DOHC V8
The mighty 4.2 is based on Audi's 4.0 V8, but features heavy revisions throughout to produce more power and better reliability. The interesting thing about the bigger V8 is that it has been utilized in two very different applications - as a quiet and comfortable luxury motor in the Q7, and as an all-out, high revving motorsport beast in the Audi R8 and B7 RD4 Quattro.
5. The 3.2L FSI DOHC V6
A truly revolutionary motor, the 3.2 V6 was the first mass produced North American market engine to feature direct gasoline injection technology. While this is a commonly used technology today, it was a big surprise upon its debut in 2005. This is the engine that changed the game not only for Audi, but the entire automotive industry as we know it.
6. The 1.8L DOHC I-4 Turbocharged
Another Ward's Top Ten Winner, the mighty little 1.8L turbo inline four has appeared in twelve difference vehicles during its lifespan, including several Volkswagen models as well as Audis. A powerful and efficient micro engine, the little 4-cylinder is about as flexible as a motor can be.
7. The 2.7L DOHC I-6 Bi-Turbo
Pumping out 261 hp and a stout 440 lb-ft of torque in base form, the little 2.7 V6 produced a mighty 375 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque in B5 spec. Twin Borg Warner turbos are mostly to thank for the impressive size/output ratio, but the engine also featured side mounted intercoolers and specially designed cast aluminum heads with bigger intake and smaller exhaust ports.
