The Audi A4 (B8 8K) facelift, produced from November 2011 to 2015, represented a significant mid-cycle refresh of Audi’s popular compact executive car. Within the B8 generation, which spanned from 2008 to 2015, the facelift brought revised styling, updated technology, and refined engine options. The 2.0 TDI variant, producing 177 horsepower, was a key offering in many European markets, positioned as a balance between fuel efficiency and respectable performance. This model aimed to appeal to drivers seeking a premium experience without the higher costs associated with the more powerful engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 (B8 8K, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (177 Hp) |
| Start of production | November, 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 120 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 119.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 256.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CGLC, CMGB |
| 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 | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2030 kg (4475.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 962 l (33.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 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 | 4701 mm (185.08 in.) |
| Width | 1826 mm (71.89 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2040 mm (80.31 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 | 862 mm (33.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1031 mm (40.59 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| 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 | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| 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 | 225/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A4 variant is the 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, typically identified by engine codes CGLC or CMGB. This engine is a member of the Volkswagen Group’s modular engine family, known for its compact dimensions and efficiency. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the cylinders at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine features a single turbocharger with an intercooler to increase air density and boost power output. The double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, further enhances breathing and performance. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a balance between fuel economy and driver engagement. While an S-Tronic dual-clutch transmission was available as an option, the manual was the more common choice for this trim level.
Driving Characteristics
The 177 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque provided by the 2.0 TDI engine offered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 7.8 seconds, making it competitive within its class. However, it wasn’t designed for outright speed; the focus was on fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising. The manual transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for maximizing fuel economy, meaning the engine sometimes felt strained when pushed hard. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TFSI petrol engine or the higher-output TDI variants, this version felt less responsive. The torque curve, however, was broad, providing good pulling power from low engine speeds, making it suitable for overtaking maneuvers on the highway.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI 177 hp model typically occupied a mid-range position in the A4 lineup. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, power windows, and an audio system with auxiliary input. Higher trim levels, such as SE or S-line, added features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, parking sensors, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control. The interior design was typically functional and well-built, reflecting Audi’s reputation for quality.
Chassis & Braking
The B8 A4 featured a sophisticated chassis design, with independent multi-link suspension at the front and an independent trapezoidal link suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 2.0 TDI models typically came equipped with ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort rather than outright sportiness, prioritizing ride quality over aggressive cornering. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 TDI 177 hp A4 was well-received in European markets, where diesel engines were highly popular due to their fuel efficiency and lower running costs. Critics praised its comfortable ride, refined interior, and respectable performance. However, some noted that it lacked the excitement of the more powerful engine options. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI petrol engine, the TDI offered significantly better fuel economy but less overall power. Against other TDI variants, it represented a more affordable entry point into the A4 range, sacrificing some performance for lower purchase price and running costs.
Legacy
The 2.0 TDI engine, in various iterations, proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While early common rail diesel engines were sometimes prone to issues with the fuel injectors or diesel particulate filter (DPF), the later versions, like those found in the facelifted B8 A4, were generally more robust. Today, these vehicles are readily available on the used car market and, with proper maintenance, can provide many years of reliable service. The 2.0 TDI engine’s reputation for fuel efficiency and longevity continues to make it a popular choice among used car buyers.
