The Audi A4 Avant 45 TFSI quattro, produced from May 2019 to May 2020, represents a mid-cycle refresh (facelift) of the B9 8W generation A4 Avant. This variant occupied a premium position within the A4 lineup, offering a blend of performance, technology, and practicality aimed at buyers seeking a refined and capable all-weather wagon. It’s a key example of Audi’s implementation of mild hybrid technology within its mainstream models, enhancing fuel efficiency without sacrificing driving enjoyment. The A4 Avant, in general, is Audi’s offering in the compact executive wagon segment, competing with vehicles like the BMW 3 Series Touring and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 Avant (B9 8W, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 45 TFSI (245 Hp) quattro Mild Hybrid S tronic |
| Start of production | May, 2019 |
| End of production | May, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 7.8-8.0 l/100 km (30.2 – 29.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 178-183 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.5-8.7 l/100 km (27.7 – 27 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4-5.8 l/100 km (43.6 – 40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6-6.9 l/100 km (35.6 – 34.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 149-157 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP – EVAP – ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 5000-6500 rpm |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 1600-4300 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DKNA |
| 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 | 1590 kg (3505.35 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2175 kg (4795.05 lbs.) |
| Max load | 585 kg (1289.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4762 mm (187.48 in.) |
| Width | 1847 mm (72.72 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2022 mm (79.61 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2820 mm (111.02 in.) |
| Front track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Rear track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Front overhang | 899 mm (35.39 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1043 mm (41.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor, All wheel drive |
| 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 | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A4 Avant 45 TFSI quattro is the DKNA engine, a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Audi’s EA888 family, known for its robust design and tuning potential. The ‘45 TFSI’ designation doesn’t directly correlate to engine displacement; it’s part of Audi’s naming convention reflecting performance level. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to produce 245 horsepower at 5000-6500 rpm and 272.9 lb.-ft. of torque between 1600-4300 rpm. What sets this variant apart is its 12V mild hybrid system. This system incorporates a belt-driven starter-generator (BSG) and a small lithium-ion battery. The BSG allows for extended engine-off coasting, regenerative braking to recoup energy, and smoother start-stop operation, contributing to improved fuel economy. The transmission is a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic, known for its quick and seamless shifts. This transmission is integral to the car’s performance and efficiency, offering both automatic and manual shift modes.
Driving Characteristics
The 45 TFSI quattro delivers a refined and responsive driving experience. The 245 hp and 272.9 lb-ft of torque provide ample power for everyday driving and confident overtaking. The S tronic transmission contributes to brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 5.7 seconds. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and control. Compared to lower-powered A4 variants, such as the 40 TFSI, the 45 TFSI offers a noticeable performance upgrade. While not as overtly sporty as the S4, it provides a satisfying balance between comfort and performance. The mild hybrid system is largely transparent to the driver, working subtly in the background to improve efficiency. The gear ratios are tuned for a blend of acceleration and fuel economy, with the lower gears providing quick response and the higher gears optimizing cruising efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A4 Avant 45 TFSI quattro typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included Audi’s Virtual Cockpit (a fully digital instrument cluster), a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, leather upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a Bang & Olufsen sound system, a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, and various interior trim upgrades. The specific trim level (Premium, Premium Plus, or Prestige) dictated the standard equipment and available options.
Chassis & Braking
The A4 Avant features a sophisticated chassis design with independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. The suspension is tuned to provide a balance between comfort and handling, with a slightly firmer setup on models equipped with the optional sport suspension package.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A4 Avant 45 TFSI quattro was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined driving experience, spacious interior, and advanced technology. The mild hybrid system was seen as a positive step towards improving fuel efficiency without compromising performance. Compared to other trims in the A4 lineup, the 45 TFSI quattro offered a compelling combination of power, all-wheel-drive capability, and premium features. Fuel economy figures were competitive for its class, with the mild hybrid system contributing to noticeable improvements over non-hybrid variants. Reliability reports have been generally positive, although some owners have reported minor issues with the infotainment system.
Legacy
The Audi A4 Avant 45 TFSI quattro represents a significant step in Audi’s electrification strategy. The implementation of mild hybrid technology demonstrated the brand’s commitment to improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. In the used car market, these models hold their value relatively well due to their desirable combination of performance, features, and all-weather capability. The EA888 engine is known for its durability, and the S tronic transmission, while requiring regular maintenance, is generally reliable. As with any used vehicle, a thorough inspection and maintenance history review are recommended before purchase.
