The Audi A3 Sportback (8PA) facelift, produced from 2008 to 2013, represented a significant update to Audi’s compact hatchback offering. Within the 8PA generation, the 2.0 TDI variant with 140 horsepower and a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) occupied a crucial middle ground in the lineup. This model aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance, appealing to buyers seeking a practical and refined daily driver. It was positioned as a step up from the lower-powered 1.6 TDI models, while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance 2.0 TDI variants boasting over 170 hp. The Sportback body style, a five-door hatchback, was particularly popular in Europe, offering increased versatility compared to the three-door A3.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A3 |
| Generation | A3 Sportback (8PA, facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (140 Hp) DPF |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 207 km/h (128.62 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp, 102.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 235.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CBAB, CFFB, CLJA |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1360 kg (2998.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 552 l (19.49 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1104 l (38.99 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4292 mm (168.98 in.) |
| Width | 1765 mm (69.49 in.) |
| Height | 1423 mm (56.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2578 mm (101.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1534 mm (60.39 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1507 mm (59.33 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 110 mm (4.33 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 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 | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A3 variant is the 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, identified by engine codes CBAB, CFFB, and CLJA. This engine belongs to the Volkswagen Group’s modular engine family, known for its robust construction and widespread use across various models. It features a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output and improve efficiency. The intercooler cools the compressed air from the turbocharger, increasing its density and allowing for more oxygen to enter the cylinders. The valvetrain employs a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, enhancing volumetric efficiency and contributing to the engine’s power delivery. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 140 hp 2.0 TDI offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the smaller displacement engines available in the A3 range. While not a sports car, it provided sufficient power for comfortable highway cruising and confident overtaking. The 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque, available from 1750-2500 rpm, provided strong low-end and mid-range acceleration. The manual transmission’s gear ratios were well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, allowing for smooth and efficient progress. Compared to the higher-output 2.0 TDI variants, this version felt less stressed at higher speeds, but lacked the ultimate punch for spirited driving. The 6-speed gearbox was a good match for the engine, offering precise shifts and a reasonable spread of ratios.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI 140 hp Sportback typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a multi-function steering wheel, and an integrated audio system. Higher trim levels, such as ‘SE’ or ‘Sport’, added features like automatic climate control, upgraded upholstery, parking sensors, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, and a navigation system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available at an extra cost. The dashboard layout was typical of Audi at the time, characterized by a clean and functional design with high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The A3 Sportback’s chassis featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, but still offered a secure and predictable feel. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 TDI 140 hp A3 Sportback was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. Critics noted that while it wasn’t the most exciting car to drive, it offered a compelling blend of practicality and sophistication. Compared to the 1.6 TDI models, the 2.0 TDI provided a significant performance boost, while remaining more affordable than the higher-powered 2.0 TDI variants. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with combined figures around 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg) making it an attractive option for drivers covering long distances.
Legacy
The 2.0 TDI engine, in its various iterations, proved to be remarkably durable and reliable. While DPF issues could occur with infrequent long journeys, proper maintenance and occasional DPF regeneration cycles generally prevented major problems. Today, well-maintained examples of the 2008-2013 A3 Sportback 2.0 TDI 140 hp are still relatively common on the used car market. They represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical, fuel-efficient, and reasonably well-equipped hatchback. The engine’s longevity and readily available parts contribute to its continued appeal.
