The Audi A4 (B7) 2.0 Multitronic, produced between 2004 and 2008, was a significant offering in Audi’s popular executive car lineup. Positioned as a mid-range variant within the B7 generation (internally designated 8E), this model combined a 2.0-liter inline-four engine with Audi’s continuously variable Multitronic transmission. It aimed to provide a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and comfort for buyers seeking a refined driving experience. The B7 A4 represented a notable evolution of the B6 platform, featuring revised styling, improved interior materials, and updated technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 (B7 8E) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (130 Hp) Multitronic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.9 l/100 km (21.6 US mpg, 25.9 UK mpg, 9.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 190 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm, 140.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 195 Nm @ 3300 rpm (143.82 lb.-ft. @ 3300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | ALT |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 5 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1940 kg (4276.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 720 l (25.43 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 700 kg (1543.24 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4586 mm (180.55 in.) |
| Width | 1772 mm (69.76 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1937 mm (76.26 in.) |
| Height | 1427 mm (56.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2648 mm (104.25 in.) |
| Front track | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.1 m (36.42 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 | automatic transmission Multitronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A4 2.0 Multitronic is the ALT engine code, a 1.984-liter (121.07 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine featured multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with five valves per cylinder. The engine produced 130 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 195 Nm (143.82 lb-ft) of torque at 3300 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized smooth operation and reasonable fuel economy over outright performance. The Multitronic transmission, a continuously variable transmission (CVT), was a key feature. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the Multitronic used a chain and pulley system to provide a virtually infinite number of ratios, optimizing engine speed for efficiency or power.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 Multitronic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. The Multitronic transmission contributed to smooth acceleration and minimized shift shock. However, the 130 hp output and front-wheel drive configuration meant that acceleration was not particularly brisk, with a 0-60 mph time of around 9.9 seconds. Compared to the more powerful 1.8T quattro or 3.0 V6 models, the 2.0 Multitronic felt noticeably less responsive. The Multitronic transmission, while smooth, sometimes lacked the direct feel of a traditional automatic or manual gearbox. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, which meant that the engine could sometimes feel strained during hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A4 2.0 Multitronic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD stereo system, and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather options were available. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, navigation, and parking sensors. Trim levels varied by market, but generally, the 2.0 Multitronic occupied a mid-range position in the A4 lineup, offering a step up in refinement and features compared to the base models but lacking the luxury appointments of the higher-end trims.
Chassis & Braking
The B7 A4 featured an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 2.0 Multitronic models typically used ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over sporty handling, resulting in a relatively compliant ride quality. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A4 2.0 Multitronic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and refined executive car. The Multitronic transmission was praised for its smoothness, but some reviewers noted its lack of engagement compared to traditional gearboxes. Fuel economy was considered good for its class. Compared to the 1.8T models, the 2.0 Multitronic offered slightly better fuel economy but less outright performance. The 1.9 TDI diesel models were favored by those prioritizing fuel efficiency and torque. Reliability was generally good, although the Multitronic transmission required regular servicing to ensure optimal performance.
Legacy
The Audi A4 B7 2.0 Multitronic remains a popular choice in the used car market. The ALT engine is known for its durability, although regular maintenance is essential. The Multitronic transmission, while generally reliable, can be prone to issues if not properly maintained. Servicing the Multitronic transmission requires specialized fluids and expertise. Overall, the A4 2.0 Multitronic offers a good balance of comfort, refinement, and reliability, making it a compelling option for buyers seeking a well-rounded executive car.
