New with the EA888 EVO4 engine
The EA888 engine family has a long history as a workhorse engine used in the VW/Audi line. This ubiquitous four-cylinder turbo has been used in everything from the Golf GTI to the Audi Q7, with different power outputs and displacements available depending on the application.
With the launch of the MK8 GTI and Golf R, as well as the 8Y S3, came a new updated version of the EA888, known internally as the EVO 4. This variant focuses on performance but still achieves economy of exceptional fuel in addition. in power
Keeping track of Volkswagen’s engine generations can be tricky, but we’ll break down some of the main changes seen in the latest version of the EA888.
output power
Perhaps the most obvious difference between the Gen 3 and EVO 4 engines is an increase in power and torque.
GTI
Like the previous generation, the EVO 4 is available in two power outputs. The GTI makes 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, up from 228 and 258 before.
Golf R/S3
The previous generation (MK7) Golf R, which used the high-performance Gen 3 EA888, produced 288 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The Mk8 R, equipped with the high-performance EVO4 engine, produces 315 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The same is true of the new Audi S3 8Y, although in this configuration it is slightly inferior to the R with 306 hp.
Turbo
One of the biggest changes from the Gen 3 engine to the EVO 4 is the turbos on both the low and high performance versions. Previously, all engines in the EA888 line, from the 1.8t to the high-performance 2.0t, used IHI turbos of various sizes.
IHI is no longer the manufacturer of the turbo for the EVO 4 engine. Instead, the lower performance versions (GTI) use a Garrett unit and the Golf R uses a Continental unit.
The IHI turbos used in the previous generation were notoriously unreliable. As more EVO 4 powered cars hit the road, it will be interesting to see if switching turbo manufacturers will improve reliability.
Fuel supply
This difference is not noticeable while driving, but the EVO 4 engine uses an improved high-pressure direct injection fuel system. This system delivers fuel at 5,076 PSI, compared to the previous generation’s 2,900 PSI. Improvements in powering allow the engine to produce more torque earlier, improving everyday driving.
Fuel economy
The EVO 4 engine has managed to provide a substantial increase in power while maintaining the same MPG (Golf R) and slightly improved MPG (GTI). The Golf R can expect 23 city/30 highway, while the GTI will see 25 city/34 highway.
Performance potential
For owners looking to increase the performance of their vehicle, the EVO 4 engine is very exciting. The upgraded stock turbos have a significantly higher performance ceiling than the old IHI units. Just the ECU flashes in these cars produce power numbers that in the past could only be achieved with inboard engines and big turbo setups. While aftermarket support for the EVO 4 is still in its infancy, we’re likely to see some impressive numbers from this engine.
common problems
It’s too early in the EVO 4’s life cycle to talk about common issues, but as these engines get more mileage over the next few years, we’ll be sure to cover them here.
wrapping
Recently upgraded to Mk8 GTI/R or 8Y S3? Whether you’re looking for more power or a reliable alternative to the dealership, schedule an appointment at Alex’s Autohaus! Our expert technicians and performance specialists will help you get the most out of your vehicle.
