Skip advert
Advertisement
Tips and advice

What are Audi TFSI petrol engines?

We explain all you need to know about Audi TFSI engines

Yellow Audi Q2

Buy a new or used Audi and the description won’t just give you the very top-level model name, such as ‘Audi A3’; it’s likely to say ‘Audi A3 TFSI’ or ‘Audi A3 35 TFSI’, plus the name of the trim level and possibly some other information too.

Ford Puma SUV front trackingFord EcoBoost engines: what are they and should you buy one?

Knowing what Audi’s labels mean will make sure you get the engine you want. Of course, most car dealerships will clearly mark cars with the fuel they use but it can still be helpful to know what the manufacturer’s own shorthand indicates.

What does TFSI stand for?

Audi A3 40 TFSI e driving

The TFSI badge is used on every petrol car Audi sells, while diesels are badged TDI. TFSI stands for ‘Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection’ and is used to signify that the engine is a turbocharged petrol unit. Around 15-20 years ago, Audi would also have sold ‘FSI’ engines, which didn’t have turbochargers.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Since autumn 2017, Audi models will often come with a number in front of the TFSI or TDI badge. These two digits, ranging from 25 to 70, are a way to signify how much power the car has. The number doesn’t correspond to the engine size or the horsepower you get; Audi says it’s to allow an easier comparison between petrol or diesel and hybrid and electric cars. You can opt to have the badge left off the car when ordering a new Audi, if you wish.

TFSI vs TSI

Audi is the only brand in the Volkswagen Group to use ‘TFSI’ badges; most others use ‘TSI’ instead. In newer cars there tends not to be any difference between the two, as the engines are often shared between brands without any changes.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

In some older cars, TFSI was used on belt-driven engines and TSI was used for chain-driven engines but that no longer appears to be the case.

Audi TFSI e engines

Audi A3 40 TFSI e badge

The little ‘e’ is a subtle addition but an Audi TFSI e engine isn’t just a normal petrol motor. It indicates that the car is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), so you’ll come across it if you’re looking at the Audi Q5 TFSI e or another one of the brand’s many PHEV models.

In this instance, the petrol engine is joined by one or more electric motors and a battery. In most cases, a full battery charge will offer at least 30 miles of electric range, better fuel efficiency and lower running costs as a result.

Audi TFSI engine problems

In most cases, the Audi TFSI engine has proved reliable but, as with all engines, correct and timely maintenance is the key to longevity. Pre-2012 TFSI engines may have higher-than-average oil consumption, which could be nothing to worry about but in some cases signifies that the piston rings in the engine may be worn. Recirculation valves and injectors also seem to be parts to keep an eye on but the TFSI and TSI engines generally have a reputation for reliability.

Check out our guides to engine management lights and engine sizes.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

New Audi Q6 e-tron SUV squares up to Tesla with 388-mile range
Audi Q6 e-tron front quarter tracking
News
18 Mar 2024

New Audi Q6 e-tron SUV squares up to Tesla with 388-mile range

Audi Virtual Cockpit: what is it, and should you have it?
Audi virtual cockpit
Tips and advice
13 Mar 2024

Audi Virtual Cockpit: what is it, and should you have it?

What is an IDP licence? International Driving Permits explained
holiday car
Tips and advice
12 Mar 2024

What is an IDP licence? International Driving Permits explained

Driving licence penalty points explained
motorway
Tips and advice
4 Mar 2024

Driving licence penalty points explained

Most Popular

Best new car deals 2024: this week’s top car offers
Carbuyer best new car deals hero
Deals
15 Mar 2024

Best new car deals 2024: this week’s top car offers

Porsche Panamera review – a tech-packed sports saloon
2024 Porsche Panamera front quarter dynamic
In-depth reviews
13 Mar 2024

Porsche Panamera review – a tech-packed sports saloon

Skoda Superb Estate review – a near-faultless, practical family car
Skoda Superb Estate Carbuyer drive
In-depth reviews
15 Mar 2024

Skoda Superb Estate review – a near-faultless, practical family car

Tips & advice

View All
Car dashboard warning lights: the complete guide
Car dashboard symbols and meanings
Tips and advice
19 Dec 2023

Car dashboard warning lights: the complete guide

Electric car charging stations: a complete guide
Public EV charge point
Tips and advice
11 Jan 2023

Electric car charging stations: a complete guide

PCP vs HP – which type of car finance is right for you?
PCP vs HP
Tips and advice
17 May 2022

PCP vs HP – which type of car finance is right for you?

Average speed cameras: how do they work?
Average speed cameras: how do they work?
Tips and advice
12 Apr 2023

Average speed cameras: how do they work?

Best cars

View All
Top 10 best car interiors
Peugeot 208 hatchback
Best cars
25 Jun 2021

Top 10 best car interiors

Top 10 best electric cars 2024
The best electric cars 2023
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

Top 10 best electric cars 2024

Top 10 best cheap-to-run cars 2024
The best cheap-to-run cars 2023
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

Top 10 best cheap-to-run cars 2024

The UK's top 10 fastest hot hatchbacks 2024
Fastest hot hatchbacks hero
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

The UK's top 10 fastest hot hatchbacks 2024