The Audi A4 Avant (B8 8K) facelift, produced from November 2011 to June 2014, represented a mid-cycle refresh of the popular fourth-generation A4 series. The 2.0 TDI variant, generating 163 horsepower, with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Start/Stop system, was a significant offering in the European market, positioned as a balance between fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and practicality. This wagon, or “estate” as it’s known in Europe, aimed to provide a premium experience for families and individuals needing versatile cargo space. It sat within the B8 generation, which utilized the Volkswagen Group’s PL46 platform, also known as the A4/A5 platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 Avant (B8 8K, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (163 Hp) DPF start/stop |
| Start of production | November, 2011 |
| End of production | June, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 120 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 | 216 km/h (134.22 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 106.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 247.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CGLD, CNHC |
| 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 | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1535 kg (3384.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2105 kg (4640.73 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) | 0.32 |
| 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 | 225/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A4 Avant variant is the 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, specifically utilizing the CGLD or CNHC engine codes depending on the exact production date and market. These engines are part of the Volkswagen Group’s modular engine family. The engine employs a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is standard, providing increased air intake and boosting power output. The engine features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing volumetric efficiency. The Start/Stop system, a key feature for reducing emissions and improving fuel economy, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, such as at traffic lights. The DPF is crucial for trapping particulate matter from the exhaust, meeting stringent Euro 5 emission standards. This engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 163 horsepower and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque offered a respectable, though not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 8.7 seconds. The engine’s peak torque is available from 1750-2500 rpm, providing good responsiveness for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TDI variants (e.g., 184 hp) or the petrol-powered versions, this configuration prioritized fuel economy over outright performance. The manual transmission, with its six gears, was geared for efficiency, with taller ratios in the upper gears to reduce engine speed at highway speeds. While the manual transmission offered a more engaging driving experience, the 163 hp engine didn’t overwhelm the chassis, making it a comfortable and predictable vehicle to drive.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI 163 hp Avant typically came with a solid base level of equipment. Standard features often included alloy wheels, air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, an Audi Concert radio system with CD player, and electric windows. Safety features like ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were also standard. Optional extras included the Audi Navigation system, leather upholstery, sunroof, parking sensors, and upgraded sound systems. Trim levels varied by market, but generally, this engine was offered in SE, Sport, and S-Line trims, with each successive trim adding more luxurious features and sporty styling cues.
Chassis & Braking
The A4 Avant B8 featured an independent multi-link suspension at the front and an independent trapezoidal link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The suspension was tuned to balance comfort and handling, offering a composed ride even when fully loaded. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 TDI 163 hp A4 Avant was well-received in the European market as a practical and efficient family car. Critics praised its fuel economy, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. Compared to the higher-output TDI variants, it offered a lower purchase price and slightly better fuel economy, but at the expense 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 technology. Reliability was generally good, although the DPF could be a potential source of issues if the vehicle was primarily used for short trips, preventing it from fully regenerating.
Legacy
The 2.0 TDI engine, in various iterations, proved to be a durable and reliable powertrain. The B8 A4 Avant, including this 163 hp variant, remains a popular choice in the used car market today. While the DPF and Start/Stop system require proper maintenance, the engine itself is generally considered robust. The A4 Avant’s blend of practicality, comfort, and build quality has ensured its continued appeal to buyers seeking a premium estate car.
