The Audi A6 Sedan (4G, C7) 2.0 TDI producing 177 horsepower was a key variant within the fourth generation (C7) of Audi’s mid-size executive car, produced from May 2011 to 2014. Positioned as a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, this model aimed to provide a refined driving experience with lower running costs than its more powerful siblings. It occupied a significant space in the European market, where diesel engines were – and continue to be – highly favored for their economy, and offered a compelling alternative to gasoline-powered A6 models and competitors like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. This variant was primarily front-wheel drive, a configuration common in the European market for this class of vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A6 |
| Generation | A6 Sedan (4G, C7) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (177 Hp) |
| Start of production | May, 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 227 km/h (141.05 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp, 112.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 241.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CMGB, CGLC |
| 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 | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1575 kg (3472.28 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2155 kg (4750.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 995 l (35.14 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 85 kg (187.39 lbs.) |
| Length | 4915 mm (193.5 in.) |
| Width | 1874 mm (73.78 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2086 mm (82.13 in.) |
| Height | 1468 mm (57.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2912 mm (114.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1627 mm (64.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1618 mm (63.7 in.) |
| Front overhang | 912 mm (35.91 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1091 mm (42.95 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 117 mm (4.61 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 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 multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| 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 | 225/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A6 variant is the 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, identified by engine codes CMGB or CGLC. This engine is a member of the Volkswagen Group’s modular engine family, known for its compact design and efficiency. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine is turbocharged with an intercooler to increase air density and boost power output. The valvetrain features four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and overall performance. The 177 horsepower and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque are delivered between 1750 and 2500 rpm, providing a broad and usable powerband. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The transmission is a six-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its efficiency and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TDI 177 hp A6 offered a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 8.3 seconds, which was adequate for everyday driving but noticeably slower than the more powerful 3.0 TDI or supercharged 3.0 TFSI variants. The manual transmission, while engaging, required more driver involvement than the optional S tronic dual-clutch transmission. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often needed to be revved to maintain speed, particularly when overtaking. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided good traction in most conditions, but could exhibit torque steer under hard acceleration. The suspension setup, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road well, providing a smooth ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI 177 hp A6 typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, power windows and mirrors, and an Audi Concert audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Common optional extras included the S line package (which added sportier styling cues), navigation system, parking sensors, and upgraded audio systems. Trim levels varied by market, but generally followed a progression from base ‘SE’ to higher-spec ‘Sport’ or ‘S line’ models, with each step adding more features and cosmetic enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The A6 (C7) chassis utilized a combination of high-strength steel and aluminum to minimize weight while maximizing rigidity. The front suspension featured an independent multi-link setup, while the rear employed an independent trapezoidal link design. This configuration provided a good balance of comfort and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The steering system was a rack-and-pinion type with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 TDI 177 hp A6 was generally well-received by automotive critics as a sensible and economical choice within the executive car segment. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some reviewers noted that the performance was not as exhilarating as that of its more powerful counterparts. Compared to the 3.0 TDI, the 2.0 TDI offered significantly better fuel economy but lacked the extra power and refinement. Against competitors like the BMW 520d and Mercedes-Benz E220 CDI, the A6 2.0 TDI held its own in terms of fuel economy and interior quality, but often lagged slightly in terms of driving dynamics.
Legacy
The 2.0 TDI engine, in various iterations, proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While early common rail diesel engines were prone to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and fuel injectors, these were largely addressed in later revisions. Today, well-maintained examples of the A6 2.0 TDI (C7) can still be found on the used car market, offering a relatively affordable entry point into the Audi executive car experience. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and ensure that the vehicle has been properly serviced throughout its life. The C7 A6, in general, is considered a well-built and comfortable car, and the 2.0 TDI variant remains a popular choice for those seeking a fuel-efficient and reliable long-distance cruiser.
