The Audi A8 L (D4, 4H) 2.0 TFSI Hybrid Tiptronic represents a relatively short-lived but significant variant within the fourth generation (D4) of Audi’s flagship luxury sedan. Produced from February 2012 to 2013, this model combined a turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine with a full hybrid electric system, paired exclusively with Audi’s eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. It was positioned as an efficiency-focused option within the A8 L range, offering a balance between luxury, performance, and reduced fuel consumption, particularly appealing to markets with high fuel costs and emissions regulations. The “L” designation indicates a long-wheelbase version, prioritizing rear passenger space and comfort.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A8 |
| Generation | A8L (D4, 4H) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TFSI (245 Hp) Hybrid Tiptronic |
| Start of production | February, 2012 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 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 (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 228 km/h (141.67 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 127.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 250 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 1.25 kWh |
| Electric motor power | 54 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 210 Nm (154.89 lb.-ft.) |
| System power | 245 Hp |
| System torque | 480 Nm (354.03 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Power | 211 Hp |
| Power per litre | 106.4 Hp/l |
| Engine Torque | 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) @ 1500-4200 rpm |
| Engine Model/Code | CHJA |
| 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2520 kg (5555.65 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 335 l (11.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 5267 mm (207.36 in.) |
| Width | 1949 mm (76.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2111 mm (83.11 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3122 mm (122.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1644 mm (64.72 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.7 m (41.67 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A8 L 2.0 TFSI Hybrid lies the CHJA engine, a 1.984-liter (121.07 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is turbocharged, producing 211 horsepower. The turbocharger and intercooler enhance efficiency and power output. The engine is paired with a 54-horsepower electric motor integrated into the eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. This configuration allows for electric-only driving at low speeds and assists the gasoline engine during acceleration. The hybrid system features a 1.25 kWh battery pack, providing a limited all-electric range. The Tiptronic transmission offers both automatic shifting and manual control via steering wheel-mounted paddles, allowing drivers to select gears for more engaging driving or to optimize fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TFSI Hybrid A8 L delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. The combined system output of 245 horsepower provides adequate performance for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of around 7.5 seconds. However, it’s noticeably slower than A8 L models equipped with the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 or the 4.2-liter V8 engines. The electric motor provides instant torque, improving responsiveness at lower speeds. The Tiptronic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to a relaxed driving experience. The hybrid system prioritizes fuel economy, and the car achieves impressive MPG figures for its size and weight. The steering is light and precise, and the suspension effectively absorbs road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A8 L 2.0 TFSI Hybrid typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a luxury vehicle. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, a navigation system, and a sunroof. Optional extras included upgraded leather packages, rear seat entertainment systems, adaptive cruise control, and a head-up display. The interior design was characterized by high-quality materials and a minimalist aesthetic. Trim levels were generally aligned with the broader A8 L range, with options for different wood veneers and interior color schemes.
Chassis & Braking
The A8 L 2.0 TFSI Hybrid utilizes an independent multi-link suspension at the front and an independent trapezoidal lever suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted on all four wheels, offering strong stopping power. The car is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control as standard safety features. Due to the added weight of the hybrid system components, the suspension was tuned to provide optimal handling and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A8 L 2.0 TFSI Hybrid was generally well-received by critics, who praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that its performance was not as exhilarating as that of the higher-powered A8 L models. Compared to the 3.0 TFSI V6, the 2.0 TFSI Hybrid offered significantly better fuel economy but lacked the V6’s punch. Against the 4.2 TFSI V8, the difference in performance was even more pronounced. The hybrid model appealed to buyers who prioritized efficiency and environmental consciousness over outright performance.
Legacy
The Audi A8 L 2.0 TFSI Hybrid, while a short-lived variant, demonstrated Audi’s commitment to hybrid technology in the luxury segment. The CHJA engine and hybrid system proved to be relatively reliable, although the complexity of the hybrid components can potentially lead to higher maintenance costs over the long term. In the used car market, these models are often sought after by buyers looking for a fuel-efficient and technologically advanced luxury sedan. The A8 L 2.0 TFSI Hybrid paved the way for Audi’s continued development of hybrid and electric vehicles, contributing to the brand’s reputation for innovation and sustainability.
