The Audi A4 (B8 8K) 2.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic, produced between 2008 and 2011, represented a significant evolution in Audi’s popular executive sedan. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the B8 A4 lineup, this variant combined a potent turbocharged four-cylinder engine with Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system and a convenient six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. It aimed to deliver a balance of performance, comfort, and all-weather capability, appealing to buyers seeking a premium driving experience without the higher price tag of the flagship models like the S4. This model was a key player in the North American market, where all-wheel drive was highly valued, and competed directly with BMW’s 328i xDrive and Mercedes-Benz’s C300 4MATIC.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 (B8 8K) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TFSI (211 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 8.1-8.7 l/100 km (29 – 27 US mpg, 34.9 – 32.5 UK mpg, 12.3 – 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 9.8-10.2 l/100 km (24 – 23.1 US mpg, 28.8 – 27.7 UK mpg, 10.2 – 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | ULEV II |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 125.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 208.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 211 Hp @ 4300-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 106.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1500-4200 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CAEB, 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) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1680-1685 kg (3703.77 – 3714.79 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 962 l (33.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4703 mm (185.16 in.) |
| Width | 1826 mm (71.89 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2006 mm (78.98 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 | 866 mm (34.09 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1029 mm (40.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 320 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 300 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17; 245/45 R17; 245/40 R18; 255/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A4 2.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic lies the EA888 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine, specifically the CAEB or CPMA engine code depending on the exact production date and market. This engine is a direct-injection, turbocharged powerplant, representing a significant step forward in forced induction technology. Direct injection allows for precise fuel delivery, improving efficiency and reducing emissions. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides a substantial boost in power output. The engine utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for enhanced performance. The six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, a traditional torque-converter automatic, offered smooth shifts and the option for manual gear selection. While not as sporty as a dual-clutch transmission (like Audi’s S tronic), the Tiptronic prioritized comfort and ease of use.
Driving Characteristics
The 211 horsepower and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 2.0 TFSI engine provided brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.6 seconds. The Tiptronic transmission, while smooth, did introduce a slight delay in shifts compared to a manual or dual-clutch gearbox. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in all weather conditions, making this variant a particularly appealing choice in regions with inclement weather. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, with a focus on providing usable torque in everyday driving situations. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TFSI variants or the V6 models, this version offered a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing comfort and efficiency over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic typically came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and power-adjustable front seats. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, parking sensors, and upgraded wheels. Interior trim levels varied, with options for wood or aluminum accents. The dashboard layout was typical of Audi’s B8-era design, characterized by a clean, minimalist aesthetic and high-quality materials. This trim level generally sat in the middle of the A4 range, offering a step up in features and performance compared to the base models but falling short of the luxury and performance offered by the S4.
Chassis & Braking
The A4 B8 featured a sophisticated suspension system designed to provide a comfortable yet engaging driving experience. The front suspension utilized a multi-link setup, while the rear employed a trapezoidal link design. Both ends were equipped with transverse stabilizer bars to reduce body roll. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The suspension tuning was geared towards providing a comfortable ride, but it also offered good handling characteristics, particularly when combined with the quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A4 2.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and all-weather capability. However, some reviewers noted that the Tiptronic transmission wasn’t as responsive as a manual or dual-clutch gearbox. Fuel economy was considered respectable for its class, although not class-leading. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI manual version, the Tiptronic offered greater convenience but slightly reduced fuel efficiency and performance. Against competitors like the BMW 328i xDrive and Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC, the A4 offered a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and technology.
Legacy
The EA888 2.0 TFSI engine, in its various iterations, has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable powerplant. However, like any turbocharged engine, it is susceptible to issues such as carbon buildup on the intake valves and potential oil consumption. The Tiptronic transmission, while generally reliable, can require more expensive maintenance than a manual gearbox. Today, the A4 B8 2.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a good balance of value, performance, and luxury. Well-maintained examples continue to provide a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience, and the quattro all-wheel-drive system remains a significant selling point.
