Audi Could Keep Five-Cylinder Engine in Production

Audi Five-Cylinder Engine: Production Future and Malaysian Market Relevance

The Audi EA855 turbocharged 2.5-litre inline-five cylinder engine is a high-performance powerplant currently used in the Audi RS3 and the Cupra Formentor VZ5. Audi is evaluating whether to keep this engine in production for another generation, despite the upcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations taking effect in November 2026. For Malaysian enthusiasts, this engine is available locally in the Audi RS3, with official distribution through Audi Malaysia, though pricing is subject to local import duties and taxes.

Key Facts

What Is the Audi EA855 Five-Cylinder Engine?

The EA855 is Audi's turbocharged 2.5-litre inline five-cylinder engine, first introduced in the Audi RS3 and later supplied to Cupra for the Formentor VZ5. It is a performance-oriented powerplant that produces up to 407 PS and 500 Nm of torque, and it is currently the only engine of its kind in production across the Volkswagen Group. The engine's future is uncertain because it cannot meet the Euro 7 emissions standards without significant modification.

The EA855 is the sole surviving five-cylinder engine in mass production, and its continuation depends on Audi's investment in electrification and emissions-reduction technology.

Why Is the Audi Five-Cylinder Engine Iconic?

The five-cylinder engine has been a hallmark of Audi's performance heritage for five decades, first debuting in the 1976 Audi 100. Audi Sport managing director Rolf Michl acknowledged the engine's historical significance, stating that it is "so characteristic and also deeply rooted in history." The engine is celebrated for its distinctive firing order, which produces a unique exhaust note that has become a signature of Audi RS models.

"We're well aware about the historical meaning of the five-cylinder [engine]. Evaluations are still running, and people who know me know that I also have a personal relationship to the five-cylinder engine. It's so characteristic and also deeply rooted in history – so let's see."

Rolf Michl, Audi Sport Managing Director, as reported by Autocar

The five-cylinder engine's unique firing order produces a signature soundtrack that is a defining characteristic of Audi RS models, a key factor in its continued appeal to enthusiasts.

Can the Audi Five-Cylinder Engine Meet Euro 7 Emissions Standards?

In its current form, the EA855 engine cannot comply with the Euro 7 emissions regulations that take effect in November 2026. To keep the engine in production, Audi would need substantial modifications, including changes to its filters, emissions sensors, injection system, and catalysts. Electrification is also being considered as an option to bring the engine into compliance.

Without substantial engineering modifications, the EA855 five-cylinder engine will not be legal for sale in Europe from November 2026 under Euro 7 standards.

Who Is This For in Malaysia?

The Audi RS3, powered by the EA855, is a high-performance compact sedan or sportback that appeals to Malaysian buyers seeking a practical daily driver with track-day capability. It is priced at a premium level, making it relevant for professionals in the Klang Valley who want performance without the footprint of a larger luxury sedan. The RS3 is the most affordable entry point into the Audi RS line-up, according to Audi Sport managing director Rolf Michl, which strengthens its case for continuation.

For Malaysian buyers, the RS3 represents the most accessible entry into Audi's RS performance line-up, combining compact urban usability with track-focused dynamics.

Common Questions

Will the Audi RS3 remain available in Malaysia if Euro 7 regulations force changes?

The RS3's availability in Malaysia depends on Audi's decision to upgrade the EA855 engine for Euro 7 compliance. If the engine is electrified or modified, it will continue production; if not, the current model may be discontinued in markets that adopt Euro 7, including Malaysia. The decision has not yet been finalised as of the latest reporting.

What is the estimated price of the Audi RS3 Competition Limited in Malaysia?

International pricing for the RS3 Competition Limited starts around USD 65,000, which converts to approximately RM 280,000 before Malaysian import duties, excise taxes, and road tax. The final Malaysian price could range between RM 550,000 and RM 700,000 depending on the specification and local tax structure. Official pricing has not yet been announced by Audi Malaysia.

Does the Cupra Formentor VZ5 use the same engine as the Audi RS3?

Yes, the Cupra Formentor VZ5 uses the same EA855 turbocharged five-cylinder engine as the Audi RS3, with 390 PS and 408 Nm of torque. Only 7,000 units of the Formentor VZ5 were produced, making it a limited-run model. The Cupra brand is not officially distributed in Malaysia.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on a report from Autocar, as published by Paul Tan's Automotive News on 19 August 2026. The primary source material is the article "Audi could keep five-cylinder engine in production" available at https://paultan.org/2026/08/19/audi-could-keep-five-cylinder-engine-in-production/. Currency conversions are approximate and based on the exchange rate at the time of writing (USD 1 = RM 4.30). Malaysian pricing is estimated and has not been officially confirmed by Audi Malaysia. This article was last updated on 19 August 2026. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against local market knowledge and the official Audi Malaysia distributor network.