The Audi A4 (B8 8K) facelift, produced from 2012 to 2015, represented a significant mid-cycle refresh of Audi’s popular compact executive car. The 2.0 TFSI variant, generating 211 horsepower and paired with Audi’s Multitronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), occupied a sweet spot in the A4 lineup, offering a balance of performance, efficiency, and technology. This configuration was aimed at buyers seeking a more engaging driving experience than the base engine offered, without the added cost and complexity of the higher-performance S4 model. It was a key offering in the North American and European markets, where the A4 competed with rivals like the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Lexus IS.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 (B8 8K, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TFSI (211 Hp) Multitronic |
| Start of production | January, 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 140 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 142.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 235.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 211 Hp @ 4500-6250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 106.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CAEB, CDNC, CPMA |
| 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 | 1485 kg (3273.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2035 kg (4486.41 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%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 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) | 0.28 |
| 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 | automatic transmission Multitronic |
| 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
At the heart of the A4 2.0 TFSI Multitronic lay the EA888 engine family, specifically the CAEB, CDNC, or CPMA engine code depending on the specific market and year. This 1984cc, turbocharged, direct-injection four-cylinder engine was a cornerstone of the Volkswagen Group’s powertrain strategy. Direct injection allowed for precise fuel delivery, enhancing both power and efficiency. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, boosted output to 211 horsepower and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. The engine featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The Multitronic transmission, a continuously variable transmission (CVT), was a key component. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the Multitronic used a chain-driven system to provide a virtually infinite number of ratios, optimizing engine speed for efficiency or performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TFSI Multitronic A4 offered a refined and capable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the manual transmission or higher-output variants, the CVT provided smooth and seamless acceleration. The Multitronic’s programming allowed for a “sport” mode, which held lower gears longer and provided quicker responses to throttle inputs. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 6.6 to 6.9 seconds, making it competitive within its class. The CVT, while efficient, sometimes lacked the direct feel of a traditional automatic or manual transmission, and some drivers noted a slight “rubber band” effect during hard acceleration. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided good traction in most conditions, but could exhibit some torque steer under heavy acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TFSI Multitronic typically came well-equipped, often positioned as a mid-range trim level. Standard features generally included leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a color display. Optional extras were plentiful, including navigation, a premium sound system (often Bang & Olufsen), parking sensors, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control. Interior trim options varied, with choices in wood, aluminum, or carbon fiber accents. Exterior styling cues were relatively consistent across trims, with the 2.0 TFSI often featuring alloy wheels and subtle chrome accents.
Chassis & Braking
The B8 A4 featured a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilized an independent multi-link setup, while the rear employed an independent trapezoidal link configuration. This provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. Brakes consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, along with electronic stability control (ESC). The suspension tuning was generally geared towards comfort, but offered a reasonably engaging driving experience. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A4 2.0 TFSI Multitronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and well-appointed interior. The Multitronic transmission received mixed reviews, with some appreciating its smoothness and efficiency, while others found it lacking in engagement. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI manual, the Multitronic offered slightly slower acceleration but improved fuel economy. Against the 3.2-liter V6 A4, the 2.0 TFSI provided a more fuel-efficient and affordable option, albeit with less overall power. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the Multitronic transmission, particularly with the chain and mechatronic unit.
Legacy
The Audi A4 B8 8K 2.0 TFSI Multitronic remains a popular choice in the used car market. The EA888 engine is known for its durability and tunability, and the Multitronic transmission, while requiring careful maintenance, can provide years of reliable service. Regular fluid changes are crucial for the Multitronic’s longevity. The B8 A4’s combination of luxury, performance, and technology continues to appeal to buyers seeking a well-rounded compact executive car. Its relatively affordable price point and readily available parts make it a practical and enjoyable ownership experience.
