The Audi A4 allroad (B8 8K) 2.0 TDI 170 hp quattro DPF, produced between 2009 and 2011, represents a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and all-weather capability within the broader Audi A4 B8 range. Positioned as a crossover-estate, the allroad variant aimed to bridge the gap between a traditional station wagon and a more rugged SUV, offering increased ground clearance and standard quattro all-wheel drive. This specific 2.0 TDI variant, equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, served as a mid-range offering, balancing fuel efficiency with adequate power for everyday driving and occasional long journeys. It was a key model in Audi’s strategy to appeal to European buyers seeking a versatile and premium vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 allroad (B8 8K) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (170 Hp) quattro DPF |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate), Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 213 km/h (132.35 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp, 104.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 214.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA189 / CAHA |
| 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 | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 490 l (17.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1430 l (50.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4721 mm (185.87 in.) |
| Width | 1841 mm (72.48 in.) |
| Height | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2805 mm (110.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1583 mm (62.32 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1574 mm (61.97 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| 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 | 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A4 allroad 2.0 TDI is the EA189 series 1.968-liter inline-four diesel engine, specifically the CAHA code. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to its efficiency. The 170 hp output is achieved at 4200 rpm, while the substantial 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque is available from a low 1750 rpm, providing strong pulling power. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing precise gear changes and allowing the driver to fully utilize the engine’s torque band.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TDI 170 hp engine, paired with the manual transmission, offered a balanced driving experience. While not overtly sporty, it provided sufficient power for confident overtaking and comfortable cruising on highways. The quattro all-wheel-drive system ensured excellent traction in various weather conditions, making it a particularly appealing choice in regions with inclement weather. The gear ratios were well-matched to the engine’s torque curve, allowing for relaxed driving at lower speeds and responsive acceleration when needed. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TDI variants (typically around 190 hp), this version prioritized fuel economy and offered a slightly more refined driving experience, sacrificing some outright performance. Against the petrol variants, it offered significantly better fuel economy, but lacked the responsiveness and higher revving nature of the gasoline engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A4 allroad 2.0 TDI 170 hp typically came well-equipped as standard. Key features included automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, power windows, and an audio system with CD player. The allroad trim also added unique exterior styling cues, such as flared wheel arches, silver-colored underbody protection, and roof rails. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Common optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, parking sensors, and upgraded audio systems. The allroad trim generally sat in the mid-range of the A4 lineup, offering a premium experience without the cost of the top-spec S4 models.
Chassis & Braking
The A4 allroad featured a robust chassis designed to handle both on-road and light off-road conditions. The suspension utilized an independent multi-link setup at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The allroad variant benefited from increased ground clearance compared to the standard A4, enhancing its ability to tackle uneven terrain. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A4 allroad 2.0 TDI 170 hp was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its versatility, comfortable ride, and all-weather capability. Fuel economy was also a strong point, making it an attractive option for drivers covering long distances. Compared to other trims in the A4 lineup, this variant offered a compelling balance of performance, efficiency, and practicality. It competed with other premium crossover-estates, such as the Volvo XC70 and the BMW 3 Series Touring xDrive. While some critics noted that the engine could feel slightly strained when fully loaded, the overall consensus was that it was a capable and well-rounded vehicle.
Legacy
The EA189 engine family, while generally reliable, has been subject to some scrutiny regarding diesel emissions. However, the 2.0 TDI 170 hp variant, when properly maintained, has proven to be a durable and long-lasting powertrain. Today, these vehicles can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. Common maintenance issues include turbocharger wear, injector problems, and potential issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Despite these potential concerns, the A4 allroad 2.0 TDI remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical, comfortable, and capable all-weather vehicle.
