The Audi A4 Avant 40 TFSI, produced from 2018 to 2019 as part of the B9 (8W) generation’s facelift, represents a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and technology within the premium compact executive wagon segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the A4 Avant lineup, the 40 TFSI bridged the gap between the more economical engine options and the higher-performance variants like the 45 TFSI. This model year saw significant updates to the B9 platform, including revised styling, upgraded infotainment systems, and enhanced driver-assistance features. The A4 Avant, in general, has long been a popular choice in Europe, offering a sophisticated alternative to more mainstream estate cars, and the 40 TFSI aimed to broaden its appeal with a balance of power and efficiency for the North American market as well.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 Avant (B9 8W, facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 40 TFSI (190 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.1-7.6 l/100 km (33.1 – 30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7-5.2 l/100 km (50 – 45.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6-6.1 l/100 km (42 – 38.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 128-138 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 236 km/h (146.64 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 4200-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1450-4200 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DKYA, DLVA |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1475 kg (3251.82 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2080 kg (4585.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 605 kg (1333.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l (14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal) |
| Length | 4738 mm (186.54 in.) |
| Width | 1842 mm (72.52 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2820 mm (111.02 in.) |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A4 Avant 40 TFSI is the 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine, specifically utilizing the DKYA or DLVA engine codes. This engine is a member of Audi’s EA888 family, known for its robust construction and tuning potential. It employs direct fuel injection (DFI) and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a balance of power and efficiency. The turbocharger is a twin-scroll design, which helps to reduce turbo lag and improve responsiveness. The engine features four valves per cylinder and utilizes a variable valve timing system on both the intake and exhaust sides, optimizing performance across the rev range. The 40 TFSI exclusively came with a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its quick and smooth shifts, contributing to the car’s overall driving experience. The S tronic transmission allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector.
Driving Characteristics
The 190 horsepower and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 2.0 TFSI engine provide the A4 Avant 40 TFSI with respectable performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 7.1 seconds, making it adequately quick for everyday driving and highway merging. The S tronic transmission plays a crucial role in delivering this performance, providing rapid gear changes and keeping the engine within its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 45 TFSI variant, the 40 TFSI offers a slightly less aggressive driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy and comfort. The gear ratios in the S tronic transmission are tuned to provide a good balance between acceleration and fuel efficiency. In real-world conditions, the 40 TFSI feels responsive and capable, offering ample power for most driving situations. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides good traction in most conditions, although it may exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A4 Avant 40 TFSI typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium vehicle. Standard features included Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen display, automatic climate control, leather upholstery, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a larger 8.3-inch MMI touchscreen, a virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and adaptive cruise control. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally included options like ‘Sport’ and ‘S line’ which added cosmetic enhancements and additional features. Interior upholstery options ranged from standard cloth to premium leather, and dashboard trim could be customized with various wood or aluminum inserts.
Chassis & Braking
The A4 Avant 40 TFSI utilizes a sophisticated chassis design featuring independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The front suspension incorporates aluminum subframes and control arms to reduce weight and improve rigidity. The rear suspension is designed to minimize body roll and enhance stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system helps to maintain control during emergency braking or slippery conditions. The steering system is an electromechanical power steering system, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A4 Avant 40 TFSI was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, practicality, and refinement. It was often compared to rivals such as the BMW 3 Series Touring and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate. The 40 TFSI offered a compelling alternative to these competitors, particularly for buyers who prioritized fuel economy and comfort. Fuel economy figures of around 38-42 mpg combined made it an attractive option for those seeking a practical and efficient wagon. Reliability reports generally indicated good reliability, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system. Compared to the higher-output 45 TFSI, the 40 TFSI offered a more affordable entry point into the A4 Avant range, making it accessible to a wider range of buyers.
Legacy
The A4 Avant 40 TFSI, while not the most powerful variant in the B9 lineup, has proven to be a reliable and well-rounded vehicle. The 2.0 TFSI engine and S tronic transmission are known for their durability, and with proper maintenance, these powertrains can provide many years of trouble-free service. On the used car market, the 40 TFSI represents a good value proposition, offering a premium wagon experience at a more affordable price point than the higher-performance models. Its blend of practicality, comfort, and efficiency continues to make it a popular choice among buyers seeking a versatile and refined estate car.
