The Audi A4 (B8 8K) facelift, produced from late 2011 through 2013, represented a significant mid-cycle refresh of Audi’s popular compact executive car. Among the various engine and transmission options offered, the 2.0 TDI variant producing 143 horsepower was a common choice, particularly in European markets. This version occupied a middle ground in the A4 lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and affordability. It aimed to appeal to drivers seeking a refined and practical daily driver with the prestige of the Audi brand. The B8 generation A4, built on the Volkswagen Group’s PL46 platform (also known as the A4/A5 platform), was known for its sophisticated interior, comfortable ride, and advanced technology for its time.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 (B8 8K, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (143 Hp) |
| Start of production | November, 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 96.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 216.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 143 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CJCA, CMFA |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2030 kg (4475.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 962 l (33.97 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%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4701 mm (185.08 in.) |
| Width | 1826 mm (71.89 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2040 mm (80.31 in.) |
| Height | 1427 mm (56.18 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 | 1031 mm (40.59 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| 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 variant is the 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, typically identified by engine codes CJCA or CMFA. These engines are part of the Volkswagen Group’s modular engine family. The engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for enhanced performance. The 143 horsepower and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque are delivered between 1750 and 2500 rpm, providing a broad and usable powerband. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering precise gear changes and a direct connection to the engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TDI 143 hp A4 offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, it provided adequate acceleration for everyday driving, achieving 0-60 mph in around 8.7 seconds. The torque-rich diesel engine meant that strong pulling power was available from low engine speeds, making overtaking and merging onto highways relatively effortless. The manual transmission, while engaging, had relatively long gearing, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TFSI gasoline variants or the higher-output TDI models, this version felt less eager to rev and offered a more relaxed driving style. The focus was on efficiency and usability rather than outright speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI 143 hp A4 typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a multi-function steering wheel, and an audio system with CD player. Higher trim levels, such as SE or S-Line, added features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, parking sensors, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a sunroof, navigation system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, though leather was available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was clean and functional, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The B8 A4 featured a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilized independent multi-link suspension, providing excellent ride comfort and handling. The rear suspension employed an independent trapezoidal link setup. The 2.0 TDI models typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned to provide a balance between comfort and handling, offering a stable and predictable ride. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 TDI 143 hp A4 was well-received in the European market as a practical and efficient choice. Critics praised its fuel economy, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some noted that it lacked the outright performance of its more powerful siblings. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI gasoline engine, the TDI offered significantly better fuel economy but less horsepower. The higher-output TDI variants provided more performance but came at a higher price point. The 2.0 TDI struck a good balance for drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency and everyday usability.
Legacy
The 2.0 TDI engine, in its various iterations, proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While diesel engines, in general, have faced increased scrutiny regarding emissions in recent years, the CJCA and CMFA engines are generally considered to be relatively robust. On the used car market, the 2.0 TDI 143 hp A4 remains a popular choice due to its fuel efficiency, practicality, and relatively affordable price. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. These models continue to offer a compelling combination of comfort, efficiency, and prestige, making them a viable option for buyers seeking a well-rounded compact executive car.
