The Audi A4 Avant (B8 8K, facelift 2011) 2.0 TDI 120 hp Start/Stop variant was a key offering in Audi’s lineup from 2012 to 2015. Positioned as an entry-level diesel option within the B8 generation A4 Avant (wagon) range, it aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and the premium Audi experience. This model was primarily sold in the European market, where diesel engines and station wagons held significant popularity. It represented a more accessible price point compared to the higher-powered TDI variants and petrol-fueled A4 Avants, targeting buyers prioritizing economy and everyday usability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 Avant (B8 8K, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (120 Hp) start/stop |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 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) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 123 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 197 km/h (122.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.8 kg/Hp, 77.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 188.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61 Hp/l |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (213.89 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CJCC |
| 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 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 | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4699 mm (185 in.) |
| Width | 1826 mm (71.89 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2040 mm (80.31 in.) |
| Height | 1436 mm (56.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2808 mm (110.55 in.) |
| Front track | 1564 mm (61.57 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Front overhang | 862 mm (33.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1029 mm (40.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 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 | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A4 Avant (B8 8K) received a significant facelift in 2011, bringing revised styling, updated technology, and refined engine options. The 2.0 TDI 120 hp Start/Stop variant, introduced in 2012, was a core part of this updated range. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s 1HX0/A3 platform, the B8 A4 Avant aimed to blend practicality with Audi’s reputation for build quality and sophisticated design. This particular engine output and configuration was designed to appeal to a broader customer base seeking a fuel-efficient and affordable premium wagon.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A4 Avant is the CJCC engine code, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine features a single turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output. The valvetrain employs a Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for enhanced performance. The Start/Stop system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (at traffic lights, for example) to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions. This variant was exclusively offered with a 6-speed manual transmission, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 hp output and manual transmission combination resulted in a driving experience focused on efficiency and usability rather than sporty performance. Acceleration from 0-62 mph took approximately 10.9 seconds, and the top speed was around 122 mph. The engine delivered its peak torque of 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft) between 1750 and 2500 rpm, providing adequate pulling power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy, meaning the engine needed to be revved slightly to access its full potential. Compared to the more powerful 170 hp or 190 hp TDI variants, this 120 hp version felt noticeably less responsive, particularly at higher speeds. However, the manual transmission offered a more engaging driving experience than the optional S tronic dual-clutch transmission available on other A4 models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI 120 hp Start/Stop A4 Avant typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment. This included alloy wheels (usually 16-inch), air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, an Audi Concert radio system with CD player, and electric windows. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Common optional extras included parking sensors, a sunroof, upgraded infotainment systems (Audi Navigation Plus), and heated seats. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the specific market, but generally followed a progressive structure with increasing levels of luxury and technology.
Chassis & Braking
The B8 A4 Avant featured a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilized an independent multi-link setup, providing excellent ride comfort and handling. The rear suspension employed an independent trapezoidal link design. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, ensuring safe and controlled braking in various conditions. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort and stability, rather than outright sportiness, reflecting the car’s positioning as a practical and efficient family wagon.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 TDI 120 hp Start/Stop A4 Avant was generally well-received by automotive critics as a sensible and economical choice. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and practical wagon body style. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the higher-powered TDI variants. Compared to the 170 hp TDI, the 120 hp version offered significantly better fuel economy but at the cost of performance. Against competitors like the BMW 3 Series Touring and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate, the A4 Avant offered a compelling combination of quality, practicality, and efficiency.
Legacy
The CJCC engine, while not known for being particularly groundbreaking, proved to be a relatively reliable unit when properly maintained. Common issues included diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging (particularly with frequent short journeys) and occasional injector problems. Today, used examples of the 2.0 TDI 120 hp A4 Avant are readily available and represent a relatively affordable entry point into Audi ownership. Their fuel efficiency and practicality continue to make them appealing to buyers seeking a dependable and economical wagon. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with diesel engines, particularly the DPF and injection system.
