Kerma Stage 3 Kit (KS3 Turbo + Q-PRO+) — 2009–2014 VW/Audi CJAA/CBEA 2.0L TDI | KermaTDI

What it is
The Kerma Stage 3 Kit is a combined turbo-and-tune package for the VW/Audi 2.0L common-rail TDI, engine codes CJAA and CBEA. It bundles the KS3 drop-in turbo (a hybrid/upgraded turbo, not a stock replacement) with a Q-PRO+ programmer running Kerma's Stage 3 tune.

Power figures — read this carefully, two different numbers are used on this page

• Absolute peak output: up to 215 whp / 370 wtq
• Gain over a stock-turbo Kerma tune: +80 whp / +120 wtq (measured at the wheels, not crank)
  These are two different reference points — the 215/370 figures are total output with the KS3 turbo installed, while the +80/+120 figures describe the additional gain the turbo itself adds on top of tuning alone. If you already run a Kerma tune on your stock turbo, expect roughly the +80/+120 gain from adding this kit. If you're starting from a completely stock setup, expect up to 215whp/370wtq total.

What's included

• KS3 turbo with full install kit
• Q-PRO+ programmer with Stage 3 tune preloaded
• Optional DSG flash add-on, where applicable to your transmission

Key characteristics

• Turbo spool characteristics are similar to stock — no noticeable lag change in daily driving
• Power delivery is described as consistent through the band, without spikes
• Latest Stage 3 revision runs lower boost and lower EGTs than the previous version
• All emissions equipment remains functional; stock exhaust flow is sufficient (no exhaust upgrade required)
• Typical turbo lead time: 2–3 weeks

Core charge
A $600 refundable core deposit is required for the KS3 turbo.

Recommended companion parts (not included, sold separately)

• Upgraded intercooler, especially for hot climates
• Upgraded clutch, for manual-transmission cars
• Kerma DSG tune, for automatic-transmission cars

Fitment
2009–2014 VW Golf, Jetta, Jetta Sportwagen, Beetle, and Audi A3, all with CJAA or CBEA engine code. Sold for North and South American VAG vehicles with these engine codes.

Requirement
All emissions equipment must remain intact — this kit is not compatible with cars that have emissions systems removed.

Common questions

Does this kit require exhaust modifications? No — the stock exhaust system's flow is sufficient for this kit.

Will I get 215whp, or 80whp more than I have now? Depends on your starting point. 215whp/370wtq is the total output figure with this kit installed on an otherwise stock car. +80whp/+120wtq is the gain specifically attributable to the KS3 turbo on top of an existing Kerma tune.

Does this kit work with a DSG automatic transmission? Yes — a DSG flash option is available where applicable, selected as an add-on at checkout.

Is the $600 core deposit refundable? Yes, it's refunded upon return of the removed turbo core.

Do I need to remove my emissions equipment for this kit to work? No — the opposite. It requires emissions equipment to remain fully intact to function correctly.