The Audi A4 (B8 8K) facelift, produced from 2012 to 2015, represented a significant mid-cycle refresh of Audi’s popular compact executive car. Among the various engine and drivetrain configurations offered, the 2.0 TDI quattro, producing 177 horsepower, occupied a key position in the lineup, particularly in European markets. This variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance and the added security of Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system. It served as a step up from the base-level engine options, appealing to drivers seeking a more refined and capable driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 (B8 8K, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (177 Hp) quattro |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 134 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 228 km/h (141.67 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 113.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 242.8 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 | 1565 kg (3450.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 962 l (33.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 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.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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, 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 at extremely high pressures 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 contributes to the engine’s overall performance. The 177 horsepower and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque are delivered between 1750 and 2500 rpm, providing a broad and usable powerband. The engine is longitudinally mounted, a characteristic of Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TDI quattro offered a balanced driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-output versions, it provided ample power for everyday driving and comfortable highway cruising. The six-speed manual transmission, standard on this model, allowed for precise gear selection and driver engagement. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 7.4 seconds. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. Compared to the front-wheel-drive 2.0 TDI, the quattro version offered noticeably improved handling and grip, particularly on slippery surfaces. The torque delivery was strong from low engine speeds, making it easy to navigate city traffic and execute overtaking maneuvers. However, the engine could feel somewhat strained at higher RPMs, lacking the responsiveness of the more powerful engines in the A4 range.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI quattro typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, though leather options were available. Standard equipment included air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, an Audi Concert radio system, and electric windows. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, parking sensors, and upgraded sound systems. Trim levels varied by market, but generally, this engine/drivetrain combination was positioned as a mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the entry-level models and the more luxurious, higher-performance variants.
Chassis & Braking
The B8 A4 featured a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilized a multi-link setup, providing excellent ride comfort and handling precision. The rear suspension employed a trapezoidal link design. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributed power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort and refinement, rather than outright sportiness, although it still provided a secure and planted feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A4 2.0 TDI quattro was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and the added security of the quattro all-wheel-drive system. Compared to the front-wheel-drive 2.0 TDI, the quattro version commanded a premium price. The higher-output 2.0 TDI variants offered more exhilarating performance but at the cost of increased fuel consumption and a higher price tag. The 2.0 TDI quattro represented a sweet spot for many buyers, offering a good balance of performance, efficiency, and practicality.
Legacy
The 2.0 TDI engine, in various iterations, proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant. The B8 A4, as a whole, has established a reputation for build quality and longevity. However, like all diesel engines, the 2.0 TDI is susceptible to issues related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not properly maintained. Regular oil changes and occasional highway driving are essential to prevent DPF clogging. On the used car market, the 2.0 TDI quattro remains a popular choice, offering a refined and capable driving experience at a relatively affordable price point. Its combination of fuel efficiency, all-wheel drive, and Audi’s reputation for quality continues to make it a desirable option for buyers seeking a practical and reliable compact executive car.
