Audi reconsiders future of iconic five-cylinder engine

Audi is reconsidering the future of its iconic 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine, which was previously expected to be phased out by mid-2027 due to stricter Euro 7 emissions regulations.

Rolf Michl, head of Audi Sport, confirmed that evaluations are ongoing, noting the engine’s “historical significance” and his own personal connection to the configuration. While earlier statements from CEO Gernot Döllner suggested that the high cost of adapting the engine to meet Euro 7 standards might not be financially justifiable given the low production volumes of models like the RS3, the company is now exploring potential solutions.

Possible paths to keep the engine alive include significant hybridization, which could help meet environmental standards but would increase weight and development costs. The company is currently analyzing whether the investment required for new emissions sensors, filters, and fuel systems can be recouped through continued production or expanded applications.