The Audi A4 Avant (B9 8W) 1.4 TFSI, produced from 2015 to 2018, represents a key entry point into the fifth generation (B9) of Audi’s popular compact executive estate car. Positioned within the broader A4 Avant lineup, which also included engines ranging from 2.0-liter TFSI units to diesel TDI variants, the 1.4 TFSI offered a balance of fuel efficiency and reasonable performance. This variant was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a practical, comfortable, and technologically advanced wagon for everyday use, prioritizing economy over outright speed. It served as a popular choice in European markets where station wagons maintain significant appeal, and saw limited sales in North America where the A4 sedan was the dominant offering.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 Avant (B9 8W) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TFSI (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.8-7.3 l/100 km (34.6 – 32.2 US mpg, 41.5 – 38.7 UK mpg, 14.7 – 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5-5.0 l/100 km (52.3 – 47 US mpg, 62.8 – 56.5 UK mpg, 22.2 – 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3-5.8 l/100 km (44.4 – 40.6 US mpg, 53.3 – 48.7 UK mpg, 18.9 – 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 124-139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 109.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 182.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CVNA |
| Engine displacement | 1395 cm3 (85.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1370 kg (3020.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 505 l (17.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1510 l (53.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l (14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 720 kg (1587.33 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4725 mm (186.02 in.) |
| Width | 1842 mm (72.52 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2022 mm (79.61 in.) |
| Height | 1434 mm (56.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2820 mm (111.02 in.) |
| Front track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Front overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1025 mm (40.35 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m (38.06 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 multi-link suspension |
| 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 | 205/60 R16; 225/50 R17; 245/40 R18; 245/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 17; 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A4 Avant 1.4 TFSI is the CVNA engine, a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Audi’s EA211 engine family, known for its compact design and efficiency. The CVNA utilizes direct fuel injection (DFI) and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a balance of power and fuel economy. The engine’s aluminum block and cylinder head contribute to weight reduction. The 1.4 TFSI engine produces 150 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1500-3500 rpm. This engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard, delivering power to the front wheels. While a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission was available as an option, the manual was common in base models.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 TFSI-equipped A4 Avant offers a comfortable and refined driving experience, though it’s not particularly sporty. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 8.6 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but noticeably slower than the more powerful 2.0 TFSI variants. The turbocharger provides a decent amount of low-end torque, making it easy to navigate city traffic. However, the engine can feel strained when pushed hard, especially when fully loaded. The 6-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine, offering smooth gear changes. The long gearing helps with fuel economy on the highway, but can require frequent downshifts when overtaking.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 TFSI A4 Avant typically came with a good level of standard equipment, including alloy wheels, automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and an infotainment system with a color display. Higher trim levels, such as Sport and S line, added features like sport seats, upgraded interior trim, and exterior styling enhancements. Optional extras included navigation, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was typically cloth in base models, with leather options available on higher trims.
Chassis & Braking
The B9 A4 Avant features a sophisticated chassis design with independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. This provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 1.4 TFSI models typically used smaller brakes compared to the higher-performance variants, with ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, along with electronic stability control. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A4 Avant 1.4 TFSI was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the larger TFSI units. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI models, the 1.4 TFSI offered significantly better fuel economy but slower acceleration. The 1.4 TFSI also provided a more affordable entry point into the A4 Avant range, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Compared to diesel variants, the 1.4 TFSI offered lower CO2 emissions in some scenarios, but typically didn’t match the diesel’s fuel economy.
Legacy
The 1.4 TFSI engine, while not known for being a powerhouse, has proven to be relatively reliable in the A4 Avant. Common issues include carbon buildup on the intake valves, which can affect performance over time. Regular servicing and the use of quality fuel can help mitigate this issue. Today, used A4 Avant 1.4 TFSI models represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and efficient estate car. They offer a comfortable driving experience and a good level of equipment at a reasonable price point. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for carbon buildup and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained.
