The Audi A4 Avant (B8 8K) facelift, produced from September 2011 to 2015, represented a significant refresh of Audi’s popular compact executive wagon. This variant, equipped with the 2.0 TFSI flexible-fuel engine producing 180 horsepower and paired with Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, occupied a middle ground in the A4 Avant lineup, offering a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It was positioned above the entry-level 1.8 TFSI models and below the more potent 3.0 TFSI variants, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile and capable family vehicle with a premium feel.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 Avant (B8 8K, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TFSI flexible fuel (180 Hp) quattro |
| 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) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 162 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 224 km/h (139.19 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 114.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 203.2 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 | 1575 kg (3472.28 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2145 kg (4728.92 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 | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 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.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 TFSI (CFKA) engine, a turbocharged, direct-injection four-cylinder. This engine is notable for its flexible-fuel capability, allowing it to run on gasoline or a blend of gasoline and ethanol (E85). The direct injection system, coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler, delivers a responsive and efficient power delivery. The CFKA engine utilizes a timing chain for durability and features a DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain. The 180 horsepower peak is achieved between 4000 and 6000 rpm, while the 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque is readily available from 1500 to 3900 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The engine is longitudinally mounted, a characteristic of Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system. The six-speed manual transmission was standard, providing precise gear changes and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TFSI 180 hp quattro A4 Avant offers a balanced driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-output versions, it provides ample power for everyday driving and long-distance journeys. The quattro all-wheel-drive system delivers excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. The six-speed manual transmission allows for precise control, although the gear ratios are tuned more for fuel efficiency than outright performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 7.5 seconds, which is respectable for a wagon in this class. The suspension provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. Steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback to the driver.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TFSI quattro A4 Avant typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, power windows and mirrors, and an Audi Concert audio system. Upholstery was typically cloth, although leather options were available. Higher trim levels offered features such as a sunroof, heated seats, parking sensors, and a navigation system. The A4 Avant also offered a range of optional extras, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their specific needs and preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The B8 A4 Avant features a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilizes a multi-link setup, providing excellent handling and ride comfort. The rear suspension employs an independent trapezoidal link design. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 TFSI quattro A4 Avant was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, fuel efficiency, practicality, and refinement. Compared to the 1.8 TFSI models, the 2.0 TFSI offered a noticeable increase in power and torque, resulting in improved acceleration and overall driving experience. However, it was more expensive to purchase and maintain. Compared to the 3.0 TFSI variants, the 2.0 TFSI was less powerful but more fuel-efficient and affordable. The flexible-fuel capability was a unique selling point, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers and those seeking to take advantage of lower ethanol prices.
Legacy
The 2.0 TFSI engine, in various iterations, has proven to be a reliable and durable powerplant. However, like all turbocharged engines, it requires regular maintenance, including oil changes and spark plug replacements. The CFKA engine, specifically, has been known to exhibit occasional issues with carbon buildup on the intake valves, which can affect performance. The quattro all-wheel-drive system remains a highly regarded feature, providing excellent traction and stability. Today, the 2011-2015 A4 Avant 2.0 TFSI quattro remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a compelling combination of practicality, performance, and prestige. Well-maintained examples continue to provide years of reliable service.
