The Audi A4 Cabriolet (B6 8H) 1.8T Multitronic, produced from July 2002 to 2005, represented a compelling entry point into Audi’s premium open-top market. Positioned within the B6 A4 Cabriolet range – which also included more powerful 2.0T and 3.0 V6 variants – this model offered a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It was built on the Volkswagen Group’s PL45 (also known as 1HX0/A3) platform, shared with the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf, and aimed at buyers seeking a stylish and comfortable convertible experience without the higher price tag of the flagship models. The Multitronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) was a key feature, differentiating it from the available manual transmission options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 Cabriolet (B6 8H) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 T (163 Hp) Multitronic |
| Start of production | July, 2002 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.6 l/100 km (20.3 US mpg, 24.4 UK mpg, 8.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 204 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 219 km/h (136.08 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp, 103.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm, 142.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 1950-4700 rpm (165.95 lb.-ft. @ 1950-4700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | BFB |
| Engine displacement | 1781 cm3 (108.68 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.4 mm (3.4 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 5 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1580 kg (3483.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2060 kg (4541.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 480 kg (1058.22 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 246 l (8.69 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 315 l (11.12 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| 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 | 4573 mm (180.04 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Height | 1391 mm (54.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2654 mm (104.49 in.) |
| Front track | 1523 mm (59.96 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1523 mm (59.96 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| 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 | automatic transmission Multitronic |
| 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 | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A4 Cabriolet 1.8T Multitronic is the BFB engine code, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a Bosch Motronic ME7.5.1 engine control unit (ECU) managing a multi-port fuel injection system. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides forced induction, boosting power output. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with five valves per cylinder (three intake, two exhaust), optimizing gas flow for improved performance. The Multitronic transmission is a continuously variable transmission (CVT) offering seamless gear changes and improved fuel efficiency compared to traditional automatic transmissions. It uses a chain-driven system with a steel pushbelt, allowing for a virtually infinite number of gear ratios within its operating range.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8T Multitronic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. With 163 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 8.8 seconds, and top speed was around 136 mph. While not as quick as the higher-powered variants, the 1.8T provided adequate performance for everyday driving. The Multitronic transmission contributed to smooth acceleration and minimized shift shock. However, some drivers noted that the CVT lacked the direct feel of a traditional automatic or manual gearbox. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and relaxed cruising, rather than aggressive acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8T Multitronic Cabriolet typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, power windows and locks, a CD stereo system, and alloy wheels. Leather upholstery was often an optional extra, as were features like heated front seats, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The interior design was typical of Audi at the time, with a focus on quality materials and a clean, functional layout. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered a range of options to personalize the vehicle.
Chassis & Braking
The B6 A4 Cabriolet featured an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front suspension utilized coil springs and shock absorbers, while the rear suspension incorporated a separate spring and damper arrangement. Brakes consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with hydraulic power assistance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A4 Cabriolet 1.8T Multitronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and refined interior. The Multitronic transmission was seen as a positive feature, offering smooth operation and improved fuel economy. However, some critics found the engine to be somewhat underpowered, particularly when compared to the 2.0T and 3.0 V6 models. Fuel economy was respectable for a convertible, averaging around 28 mpg in combined driving. Compared to the manual transmission version of the 1.8T, the Multitronic offered greater convenience but slightly reduced performance.
Legacy
The B6 A4 Cabriolet 1.8T Multitronic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, although like any used car, it requires careful inspection. The 1.8T engine is generally robust, but potential issues include oil leaks, turbocharger wear, and occasional problems with the coil packs. The Multitronic transmission, while generally reliable, can be expensive to repair if it fails. Today, these cars are becoming increasingly sought after by enthusiasts, offering a stylish and affordable entry into the Audi convertible world. Well-maintained examples command reasonable prices in the used car market, and parts availability remains good.
