The Audi A7 Sportback (C8) 45 TFSI, produced from 2020 to May 2023, represents a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and luxury within the A7 Sportback range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it served as a popular alternative to the more powerful 55 TFSI and the diesel-powered variants. This specific configuration, featuring a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a mild-hybrid system and a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, aimed to deliver a refined driving experience with respectable fuel economy. The C8 generation A7 Sportback, built on the MLB Evo platform, continued Audi’s tradition of elegant design and advanced technology in the executive car segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A7 |
| Generation | A7 Sportback (C8) |
| Type (Engine) | 45 TFSI (265 Hp) Mild Hybrid S tronic |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | May, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 7-8 l/100 km (33.6 – 29.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 160-182 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.9-9.1 l/100 km (26.4 – 25.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5-5.9 l/100 km (42.8 – 39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7-7.1 l/100 km (35.1 – 33.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 154-162 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro-6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 265 Hp @ 5250-6500 rpm |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 1600-4300 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DMTA, DPAA |
| 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 | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.7 l (9.19 US qt | 7.65 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2310 kg (5092.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 535 l (18.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1390 l (49.09 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 (brakes 8%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (brakes 12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (no brakes) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 95 kg (209.44 lbs.) |
| Length | 4969 mm (195.63 in.) |
| Width | 1908 mm (75.12 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2118 mm (83.39 in.) |
| Height | 1422 mm (55.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2926 mm (115.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1651 mm (65 in.) |
| Rear track | 1637 mm (64.45 in.) |
| Front overhang | 927 mm (36.5 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1116 mm (43.94 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, MHEV |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission S tronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A7 45 TFSI lies the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, specifically coded DMTA or DPAA depending on the production year and market. This engine is a staple in the Volkswagen Group’s lineup, known for its balance of power and efficiency. It utilizes direct fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved combustion and reduced emissions. The engine also features an integrated exhaust manifold for faster warm-up times and reduced turbo lag. The turbocharger itself is a twin-scroll design, further enhancing responsiveness. The mild-hybrid system, a 48-volt system, incorporates a belt starter generator (BSG) that assists the engine during acceleration and allows for extended coasting with the engine switched off, improving fuel economy. The seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission provides rapid and smooth gear changes, contributing to a more engaging driving experience. This transmission is known for its efficiency and responsiveness, offering both automatic and manual shift modes.
Driving Characteristics
The 265 horsepower and 272.9 lb.-ft. of torque delivered by the 45 TFSI powertrain provide brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.7 seconds. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-output 55 TFSI, the 45 TFSI offers ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The S tronic transmission’s quick shifts and well-chosen gear ratios contribute to a smooth and responsive feel. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other A7 variants, the S tronic prioritizes convenience and ease of use. The mild-hybrid system is largely transparent to the driver, providing a subtle boost during acceleration and contributing to improved fuel economy. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides good traction in most conditions, although it lacks the all-weather capability of the quattro all-wheel-drive system found on other A7 models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A7 Sportback 45 TFSI typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster, a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with MMI Navigation plus, leather upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning and pre-sense basic. Optional extras included features like a Bang & Olufsen sound system, adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, and matrix LED headlights. Interior trim options varied, with choices in wood, aluminum, and carbon fiber accents. The overall interior design emphasized luxury and sophistication, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail.
Chassis & Braking
The A7 Sportback (C8) features a sophisticated chassis design with independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear axles. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort, but it also offers a degree of responsiveness in corners. The 45 TFSI model typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system helps to maintain control in challenging driving conditions. The steering system is an electromechanical power steering system, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A7 Sportback 45 TFSI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined driving experience, luxurious interior, and advanced technology. Fuel economy was also a strong point, with the mild-hybrid system contributing to respectable MPG figures. Compared to the A7 55 TFSI, the 45 TFSI offered a more affordable entry point into the A7 range, albeit with slightly less performance. Compared to diesel-powered A7 variants, the 45 TFSI offered a gasoline engine alternative, which some buyers preferred. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the EA888 engine proving to be a durable and dependable unit.
Legacy
The Audi A7 Sportback (C8) 45 TFSI represents a significant step forward in terms of technology and efficiency. The combination of a turbocharged engine, mild-hybrid system, and dual-clutch transmission delivers a refined and engaging driving experience. On the used car market, these models hold their value well, thanks to their reputation for quality and reliability. The EA888 engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, these A7s are expected to provide many years of reliable service. The C8 generation A7 Sportback, and specifically the 45 TFSI variant, continues to be a popular choice for buyers seeking a luxurious and technologically advanced executive car.
