The Audi A4 Avant (B8 8K facelift), specifically the 2.0 TDI variant producing 190 horsepower, was a key model in Audi’s lineup from 2014 to 2015. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the B8 generation (produced 2008-2015, with the facelift introduced in 2011), it combined the practicality of a station wagon (estate) with a relatively efficient and powerful diesel engine. This model aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a balance between performance, fuel economy, and cargo space, primarily in the European market where wagons remain highly popular. The B8 Avant facelift brought updated styling, improved technology, and refined engine options compared to the pre-facelift models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 Avant (B8 8K, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (190 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5.6-6.1 l/100 km (42 – 38.6 US mpg, 50.4 – 46.3 UK mpg, 17.9 – 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.2-4.7 l/100 km (56 – 50 US mpg, 67.3 – 60.1 UK mpg, 23.8 – 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.7-5.2 l/100 km (50 – 45.2 US mpg, 60.1 – 54.3 UK mpg, 21.3 – 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 123-136 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 232 km/h (144.16 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 119.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 250.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 3800-4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 96.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1750-3000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CNHA |
| 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 | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1595 kg (3516.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2165 kg (4773.01 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 490 l (17.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1430 l (50.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 20 l (5.28 US gal | 4.4 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 | 4699 mm (185 in.) |
| Width | 1826 mm (71.89 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2040 mm (80.31 in.) |
| Height | 1436 mm (56.54 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 | 1029 mm (40.51 in.) |
| 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 | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 314×25 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 300×12 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R16; 225/50 R17; 245/45 R17; 245/40 R18; 255/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 16; 7.5J x 17; 8J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A4 Avant is the EA288 series 2.0-liter inline-four diesel engine, specifically the CNHA code. This engine represents a significant evolution in Volkswagen Group’s diesel technology. It features a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The CNHA engine utilizes a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, further enhances breathing and performance. The engine’s 15.5:1 compression ratio is typical for a modern diesel, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its balance of fuel economy and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 190 hp 2.0 TDI Avant offered a respectable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the petrol-powered variants, it provided ample torque (400 Nm / 295 lb-ft) from low engine speeds, making it effortless for everyday driving and overtaking. The manual transmission allowed for precise control, although the gear ratios were tuned more for fuel efficiency than outright acceleration. Compared to the more powerful 3.0 TDI models, the 2.0 TDI felt less strained at highway speeds, but lacked the same level of outright punch. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided good traction in most conditions, but could exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI Avant typically came equipped with a solid base level of features. Standard equipment included air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, power windows, and an Audi Concert radio system. Higher trim levels, such as SE or S-Line, added features like leather upholstery, automatic climate control, parking sensors, and upgraded alloy wheels. Optional extras included a navigation system, sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base models, with leather options available on higher trims.
Chassis & Braking
The B8 A4 Avant featured a well-engineered chassis. The front suspension utilized a multi-link setup for precise handling and ride comfort, while the rear employed an independent trapezoidal link suspension. The 2.0 TDI models typically featured ventilated front discs and solid rear discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning was geared towards providing a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling prowess.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A4 Avant 2.0 TDI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and refined driving experience. Compared to the more expensive 3.0 TDI models, the 2.0 TDI offered a more affordable entry point into the A4 Avant range. Its fuel economy was a significant selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel was often cheaper than petrol. However, some critics noted that the 2.0 TDI lacked the outright performance of its more powerful siblings. Reliability was generally good, although diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues could occur with infrequent long-distance driving.
Legacy
The EA288 engine family, including the CNHA code found in this A4 Avant, has proven to be a durable and reliable powertrain. While DPF maintenance and potential injector issues are common concerns with modern diesels, the engine itself is generally robust. On the used car market, the A4 Avant 2.0 TDI remains a popular choice, offering a good balance of practicality, fuel economy, and affordability. Its reputation for reliability and relatively low running costs contribute to its continued desirability.
