The Audi A4 (B7) 2.0 TDI with 170 horsepower, equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), was a significant offering in Audi’s lineup from June 2006 to June 2008. Positioned as a mid-range option within the B7 A4 generation (internally designated 8E), it aimed to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance. This variant was primarily marketed in Europe, where diesel engines held a substantial market share, and represented Audi’s commitment to advanced diesel technology. It slotted between the lower-powered 1.9 TDI models and the more potent 2.7 TDI and 3.0 TDI variants, appealing to drivers seeking a refined driving experience with reasonable running costs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 (B7 8E) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (170 Hp) DPF |
| Start of production | June, 2006 |
| End of production | June, 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 228 km/h (141.67 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 220.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA188 / BRD |
| 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 | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Pump-nozzle (Unit Injector) |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1450 kg (3196.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 833 l (29.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 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 | 4586 mm (180.55 in.) |
| Width | 1772 mm (69.76 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1937 mm (76.26 in.) |
| Height | 1427 mm (56.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2642 mm (104.02 in.) |
| Front track | 1519 mm (59.8 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.1 m (36.42 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 | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A4 2.0 TDI was the EA188 engine family, specifically the BRD code. This 1968cc inline-four cylinder diesel engine utilized pump-nozzle (unit injector) technology for direct fuel injection, a system known for its precise fuel delivery and efficiency. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) operating four valves per cylinder. A turbocharger with an intercooler was employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The turbocharger provided significant improvements in low-end torque, making the engine feel responsive in everyday driving situations. The DPF, a crucial component for meeting Euro 4 emissions standards, captured and periodically burned off soot particles from the exhaust gases. The engine produced 170 horsepower at 4200 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. This torque band provided strong acceleration in typical driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TDI 170 hp variant offered a balanced driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-powered models, it provided ample power for comfortable cruising and overtaking. The six-speed manual transmission allowed for precise gear selection, although an automatic transmission option was also available. The automatic, while offering convenience, generally resulted in slightly slower acceleration times and a less engaging driving experience. The engine’s strong low-end torque meant that frequent downshifting wasn’t necessary, making it a relaxed car to drive in urban and highway environments. Compared to the 1.9 TDI, the 2.0 TDI offered noticeably more power and refinement. However, it didn’t quite match the performance of the 2.7 TDI or 3.0 TDI models, which provided significantly more horsepower and torque.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A4 2.0 TDI 170 hp typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Higher trim levels, such as the SE or S-Line, added features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, and optional extras like leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a navigation system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather was available as an option. The dashboard layout was typical of Audi at the time, with a clean and functional design. Optional extras could significantly increase the price of the vehicle, allowing buyers to customize it to their preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The B7 A4 featured an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension was tuned to provide a balance between comfort and handling, making it suitable for both everyday driving and more spirited driving on winding roads.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A4 2.0 TDI 170 hp was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, refined engine, and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy under hard acceleration. Compared to other trims in the A4 lineup, the 2.0 TDI offered a good balance of performance and economy. It was more expensive than the 1.9 TDI, but offered significantly more power. It was less expensive than the 2.7 TDI and 3.0 TDI models, but didn’t offer the same level of performance. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with the 2.0 TDI achieving around 40.6 US mpg on the combined cycle.
Legacy
The EA188 engine family, including the BRD code used in the A4 2.0 TDI, proved to be relatively reliable, although the DPF could be a source of issues if not properly maintained. Regular servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel were essential for ensuring the longevity of the engine and DPF. Today, these vehicles are readily available on the used car market and can represent a good value for buyers seeking a comfortable and fuel-efficient European sedan. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF-related issues and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained. The 2.0 TDI engine became a mainstay in the Volkswagen Group’s lineup for many years, and its success helped to establish Audi as a leader in diesel technology.
