2019-2020 Audi A4 allroad (B9 8W facelift ) 40 TDI (190 Hp) quattro S tronic

Technical Specifications

The Audi A4 allroad 40 TDI quattro S tronic, launched in 2019 as part of the B9 facelift, is a five-door station wagon designed to bridge the gap between a traditional A4 Avant and a full-fledged SUV. The “allroad” designation signifies increased ground clearance and standard quattro all-wheel drive, enhancing its off-pavement capability. This particular variant, the 40 TDI, utilizes a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine producing 190 horsepower, paired with a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. It occupied a middle ground in the allroad lineup, offering a balance of performance, fuel economy, and price, appealing to buyers who desired a practical and capable vehicle for both daily commuting and weekend adventures.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

At the heart of the A4 allroad 40 TDI lies the Volkswagen Group’s EA288 engine family. Specifically, this model utilizes the DESA or DETA engine code, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine features a common-rail direct fuel injection system operating at pressures up to 2,500 bar, ensuring efficient fuel atomization and combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output. The engine also incorporates variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust sides to optimize performance and efficiency across the rev range. The S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission provides rapid and smooth gear changes. This transmission features two separate clutches, one for odd-numbered gears and one for even-numbered gears, allowing for pre-selection of the next gear and minimizing interruption in power delivery. The quattro all-wheel-drive system utilizes a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed, providing enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions.

Driving Characteristics

The 190 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 40 TDI engine provide adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 7.5-7.9 seconds. While not as quick as the higher-output petrol variants, the 40 TDI offers a broad torque curve, resulting in strong pulling power from low engine speeds. The S tronic transmission contributes to a responsive driving experience, with quick and precise gear changes. The allroad’s raised suspension and quattro all-wheel drive provide increased confidence on slippery surfaces and unpaved roads. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the S tronic offers greater convenience and ease of use, particularly in urban traffic. However, some drivers may prefer the more engaging feel of a manual gearbox. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance of fuel efficiency and performance, with a relatively tall final drive to maximize highway mileage.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The A4 allroad 40 TDI quattro S tronic came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, Audi Virtual Cockpit (digital instrument cluster), three-zone automatic climate control, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery typically consisted of a combination of cloth and leatherette, with optional upgrades to full leather available. Standard exterior features included roof rails, unique allroad styling cues, and LED headlights. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, a premium sound system, and various interior trim packages.

Chassis & Braking

The A4 allroad features a fully independent suspension system, with multi-link setups at both the front and rear. The allroad variant benefits from a raised ride height compared to the standard A4 Avant, providing increased ground clearance for off-road excursions. The braking system consists of ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard features. The steering system is a speed-sensitive electric power steering system, offering precise and responsive handling.

Market Reception & Comparison

The A4 allroad 40 TDI quattro S tronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and all-weather capability. The 40 TDI engine was considered a good compromise between performance and fuel economy. Compared to the more powerful petrol variants, the 40 TDI offered lower running costs and better fuel efficiency. However, some critics noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy under hard acceleration. Compared to the 1.9 TDI versions available in some European markets, the 40 TDI offered more power and refinement. The S tronic transmission was generally praised for its smoothness and responsiveness, but some drivers preferred the engagement of a manual gearbox.

Legacy

The EA288 diesel engine, used in the A4 allroad 40 TDI, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain when properly maintained. However, like all modern diesel engines, it is susceptible to issues related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and AdBlue system if not used on longer journeys regularly. The S tronic transmission is generally durable, but requires regular servicing to ensure optimal performance. In the used car market, the A4 allroad 40 TDI quattro S tronic remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a versatile and capable premium wagon. Its combination of practicality, efficiency, and all-weather capability continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers.