The Audi A4 Avant (B8 8K) facelift, produced from September 2011 to 2015, represented a mid-cycle refresh of the fourth generation A4 Avant. This particular variant featured a 2.0 TFSI engine capable of running on both gasoline and E85 flexible fuel, producing 180 horsepower. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the B8 Avant lineup, it aimed to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and practicality for the European market, though it was also available in select other regions. The facelift brought revised styling, updated technology, and refinements to the engine range, solidifying the A4 Avant’s position as a competitive player in the premium compact estate segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 Avant (B8 8K, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TFSI flexible fuel (180 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 228 km/h (141.67 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 120 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 213.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 4000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 90.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1500-3900 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CFKA |
| 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 | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2070 kg (4563.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 490 l (17.3 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%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 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 | 225/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A4 Avant variant is the CFKA engine, a 1.984-liter (121.07 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine belongs to Audi’s EA888 family, known for its robust design and tuning potential. The CFKA is a direct-injection turbocharged engine, utilizing a single turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. Direct injection allows for precise fuel delivery, improving combustion and reducing emissions. The engine’s flexible-fuel capability allows it to run on gasoline or E85 ethanol, or any blend of the two. The E85 compatibility was a significant feature in markets with incentives for biofuel use. The engine employs a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for increased power output. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing drivers with full control over gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The 180 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque offered by the 2.0 TFSI engine provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 7.7 seconds, and top speed was rated at 141.67 mph. While not as quick as the higher-output 2.0 TFSI variants or the A4’s more potent engine options like the 3.2-liter V6, this configuration offered a good balance between performance and fuel economy. The manual transmission provided a more engaging driving experience compared to the optional automatic, allowing for precise gear changes and better control. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power during acceleration, but some turbo lag was present at lower engine speeds. The front-wheel-drive layout offered good traction in most conditions, but could experience torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TFSI flexible fuel model typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a multi-function steering wheel, and an Audi Concert audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Common optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, parking sensors, and upgraded alloy wheels. The specific trim level (e.g., SE, Sport) determined the availability of certain features and cosmetic enhancements. The A4 Avant generally offered a refined and comfortable interior, with high-quality materials and a well-designed dashboard layout.
Chassis & Braking
The B8 A4 Avant featured a fully independent suspension system, with a multi-link setup at the front and a trapezoidal link setup at the rear. This provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front suspension incorporated stabilizer bars to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The electric power steering provided precise and responsive steering feel. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between comfort and handling, making the A4 Avant a capable and enjoyable car to drive.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 TFSI flexible fuel variant of the A4 Avant was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of its more powerful counterparts. Compared to the higher-output 2.0 TFSI models, this variant offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. Compared to diesel-powered A4 Avants, such as the 2.0 TDI, the 2.0 TFSI offered a more responsive engine but typically had higher fuel consumption. The flexible-fuel capability was a unique selling point in markets where E85 was readily available and incentivized.
Legacy
The CFKA engine, while generally reliable, is known to be susceptible to carbon buildup on the intake valves, a common issue with direct-injection engines. Regular oil changes and the use of high-quality fuel are crucial for maintaining its longevity. The B8 A4 Avant, as a whole, has proven to be a durable and well-built vehicle. Today, these cars are readily available on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. The 2.0 TFSI flexible fuel variant remains a practical and economical choice for buyers seeking a premium compact estate with the added benefit of biofuel compatibility. Its blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality ensures its continued appeal to a wide range of drivers.
