The Audi A3 Sportback (8V) 1.4 TFSI COD ultra, produced from 2014 to 2016, represents a key variant within the third generation (8V) of Audi’s popular compact hatchback. Positioned as a fuel-efficient option within the A3 Sportback range, it aimed to deliver a balance of performance and economy, appealing to buyers seeking a premium experience without excessive running costs. This model utilized Audi’s Cylinder On Demand (COD) technology, a feature designed to enhance fuel efficiency by deactivating two cylinders under light load conditions. It occupied a mid-range position in the 8V A3 Sportback lineup, slotting below the more powerful 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TFSI models, but above the entry-level 1.2 TFSI.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A3 |
| Generation | A3 Sportback (8V) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TFSI COD ultra (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 109 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp, 122.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 204.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CZDA, CZEA |
| Engine displacement | 1395 cm3 (85.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1225 kg (2700.66 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1785 kg (3935.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1220 l (43.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4310 mm (169.69 in.) |
| Width | 1786 mm (70.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1966 mm (77.4 in.) |
| Height | 1426 mm (56.14 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1536 mm (60.47 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1506 mm (59.29 in.) |
| Front overhang | 869 mm (34.21 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 805 mm (31.69 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A3 Sportback 1.4 TFSI COD ultra is the CZDA or CZEA engine code, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a respectable 150 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. The key innovation is the Cylinder On Demand (COD) system. Under partial load conditions, the system shuts down cylinders two and three, effectively turning the engine into a two-cylinder unit. This reduces fuel consumption significantly. The engine features a dual-mass flywheel to mitigate vibrations during cylinder deactivation. The engine’s valvetrain employs a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration with four valves per cylinder. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The transmission is a six-speed manual gearbox, optimized for fuel efficiency and smooth operation.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 TFSI COD ultra offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-powered A3 variants, it provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving. The 0-60 mph time of around 7.8 seconds is respectable. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, but the engine doesn’t feel particularly eager at very low RPMs. The six-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering precise shifts and a reasonable spread of gear ratios. Compared to the 1.8 TFSI, the 1.4 TFSI feels less responsive, but it compensates with significantly better fuel economy. The Cylinder On Demand system is generally seamless in operation, although some drivers may notice a slight change in engine note when cylinders are deactivated and reactivated.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A3 Sportback 1.4 TFSI COD ultra typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a central display screen, alloy wheels, and a comprehensive suite of safety features such as ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather options were available. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded infotainment systems with navigation, parking sensors, and a premium sound system. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally followed a progressive structure with increasing levels of equipment and luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The A3 Sportback 1.4 TFSI COD ultra utilizes an independent suspension setup, with a McPherson strut arrangement at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. This provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive control. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The chassis is tuned to prioritize comfort and efficiency, rather than outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A3 Sportback 1.4 TFSI COD ultra was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the more powerful A3 variants. Compared to the 1.8 TFSI, the 1.4 TFSI offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. The 1.4 TFSI also proved to be more reliable than some of the more complex engines in the A3 range, making it a popular choice for buyers seeking a dependable and economical compact hatchback.
Legacy
The 1.4 TFSI COD ultra powertrain has proven to be relatively reliable in the long term, although regular maintenance is essential. Common issues include carbon buildup on the intake valves, which can affect performance. The Cylinder On Demand system has also been known to experience occasional faults, but these are typically minor. In the used car market, the A3 Sportback 1.4 TFSI COD ultra represents a good value proposition, offering a blend of practicality, economy, and premium features. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs make it an attractive option for buyers seeking a well-rounded compact hatchback.
