The Audi A4 Avant 30 TDI (136 hp) S tronic, produced from May 2019 to August 2020, represents a key variant within the B9 8W facelift generation of Audi’s popular compact executive estate. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option, this model aimed to balance performance with economy, appealing to buyers prioritizing everyday usability over outright speed. It falls within the broader A4 Avant range, sharing the platform (MLB Evo) with other A4 body styles and related Volkswagen Group vehicles. This specific configuration was primarily marketed in Europe, where diesel engines and station wagons maintain significant market share, though limited examples were available in other regions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 Avant (B9 8W, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 30 TDI (136 Hp) S tronic |
| Start of production | May, 2019 |
| End of production | August, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.2-5.8 l/100 km (45.2 – 40.6 US mpg, 54.3 – 48.7 UK mpg, 19.2 – 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 137-153 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.4-4.7 l/100 km (53.5 – 50 US mpg, 64.2 – 60.1 UK mpg, 22.7 – 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7-4.1 l/100 km (63.6 – 57.4 US mpg, 76.3 – 68.9 UK mpg, 27 – 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.0-4.3 l/100 km (58.8 – 54.7 US mpg, 70.6 – 65.7 UK mpg, 25 – 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 104-113 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 211 km/h (131.11 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP – EVAP – ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp, 88.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 208.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 3000-4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1500-3250 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DEZB |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1535 kg (3384.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2160 kg (4761.98 lbs.) |
| Max load | 625 kg (1377.89 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4762 mm (187.48 in.) |
| Width | 1847 mm (72.72 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2022 mm (79.61 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2820 mm (111.02 in.) |
| Front track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Rear track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Front overhang | 899 mm (35.39 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1043 mm (41.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission S tronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The A4 Avant 30 TDI utilizes the Volkswagen Group’s DEZB engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of the EA288 family, known for its robust construction and widespread use across various VW Group brands. The DEZB features a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. Fuel is delivered via a common rail direct injection system, operating at very high pressures to optimize combustion. The engine employs four valves per cylinder and utilizes a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) to improve responsiveness across the rev range. The 136 horsepower peak is achieved between 3000 and 4400 rpm, while the 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque is available from a low 1500 rpm, providing strong pulling power. Paired with this engine is the 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. This transmission offers quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The S tronic is known for its efficiency and responsiveness compared to traditional torque converter automatics.
Driving Characteristics
The 136 hp diesel engine coupled with the 7-speed S tronic provides a comfortable and efficient driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.3 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t offer particularly sporty performance. The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it well-suited for overtaking and navigating hilly terrain. The S tronic transmission shifts quickly and smoothly, enhancing the overall driving experience. Compared to the more powerful 40 TDI variants, the 30 TDI feels less urgent in its acceleration. However, it offers significantly better fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel savings over outright performance. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides good traction in most conditions, but can exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A4 Avant 30 TDI S tronic typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen display, three-zone automatic climate control, and a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel. Standard safety features included Audi pre sense basic, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Common optional extras included the Audi virtual cockpit (a fully digital instrument cluster), a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally followed a progression from ‘SE’ or ‘Sport’ to ‘S line’, with the latter offering more aggressive styling and additional equipment.
Chassis & Braking
The A4 Avant 30 TDI utilizes a fully independent suspension system, with multi-link setups at both the front and rear axles. This provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, but still offers a stable and controlled driving experience. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard features. The steering is electrically assisted, providing a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A4 Avant 30 TDI S tronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the more powerful TDI variants. Compared to the 40 TDI, the 30 TDI offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. Against competitors like the BMW 3 Series Touring and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate, the A4 Avant 30 TDI offered a compelling combination of practicality, refinement, and fuel economy. Its real-world fuel economy consistently met or exceeded the official WLTP figures.
Legacy
The DEZB engine and S tronic transmission have proven to be relatively reliable powertrains. While diesel engines are subject to stricter emissions regulations, the EA288 family has been continually updated to meet these standards. The A4 Avant 30 TDI S tronic remains a popular choice on the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and practical estate car. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of this powertrain. The S tronic transmission requires periodic servicing, including fluid changes, to maintain optimal performance.
