Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015) Review
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Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015) At A Glance
Solid build quality throughout. Huge range of engines and specifications. Available with Quattro four-wheel drive. Frugal diesels. Well designed and user-friendly boot.
Poor ride quality with earlier S line models. Doesn’t handle as well as rear-wheel drive competition. Dashboard design a little fussy.
By 2008, the recipe had been perfected for the Audi A4 Avant - simple, stylish lines coupled to decent boot space. It proved a winning formula as the Audi A4 Avant offered more room than a BMW 3 Series Touring. The Audi A4 Avant also delivered much of the comfort of a Mercedes C-Class Estate, although not the Merc's outright carrying capacity. Audi A4 Avant buyers also enjoyed quality that shaded the Volvo V60 and stablemate the Volkswagen Passat. Read on for our full Audi A4 Avant review.
The Audi A4 Avant generation that arrived in 2008 is a ‘lifestyle’ estate. It’s less about outright practicality and more about being a cargo-hauler that looks a bit rakish and drives with panache. It does indeed look the part too, not quite the generic oblong block that some estate cars end up being.
However, because Audi persists with perching its engines ahead of the front wheels, the Audi A4 Avant is less engaging than its rear-wheel drive alternatives – namely the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate and BMW 3 Series Touring.
That’s not to say it doesn’t handle well. It does, with a predictable turn-in and – if you specify Quattro – a blend of grip and composure, especially in wet weather. The problem is that prior to 2010, when Audi launched the Audi A6 and showed everyone that it was able to make a car ride comfortably, the company generally conflated sporty handling with firm suspension.
As a result, an early Audi A4 Avant S line on big wheels is a pretty juddering estate car whenever you encounter potholes, although after the model’s 2012 facelift things became altogether smoother for an Audi A4 Avant driver.
One thing that has never been lacking with this Audi A4 Avant, though, is choice. Every base is covered, from the frugal 120PS four-cylinder 2.0-litre TDI diesel version, through the fine 3.0-litre V6 diesels, a couple of smooth TFSI turbo petrols, and a rapid supercharged six-cylinder S4 model. There’s also the brain scramblingly quick Audi RS4 with its 450PS 4.2-litre V8.
Over its seven-year lifespan, Audi tried to keep the car fresh with trim, engine and specification updates, though there have been some mainstays throughout. Base model SE cars feature continuously, as do sporty S line versions, while post-2012 Black Edition models are catnip to a certain demographic, coming with huge-looking 19-inch alloy wheels and gloss black trim inside and out.
The innate feeling of quality is something that all Audi A4 Avant models come with. Aside from some of the trim surrounding the instrument binnacle, which is a little flimsy, the Audi A4 Avant feels as solid as can be. Rarely will you encounter one with any squeaks or rattles, which is a huge part of the Audi A4 Avant’s enduring popularity.
Reviews for Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015)'s top 3 rivals
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Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015) handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.8 TFSI to 3.2 FSI quattro
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 21–61 mpg
Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015): Handling and ride quality
In a market where the norm is rear-wheel drive, the Audi A4 Avant provides not one but two rarer alternatives – front-wheel drive and quattro four-wheel drive. And while it’s easy to be a bit sniffy about the lack of rear-drive, the fact is that 98 per cent of the time it makes no difference.
More likely, the executive estate driver is accustomed to cruising on motorways. No matter what a BMW 3 Series Touring driver tells you, an Audi A4 Avant handles just fine. What’s more, Audi’s four-wheel-drive system might have been developed initially for rally success, but today an Audi A4 Avant equipped with quattro is more useful as a safety net in wintry weather.
All Audi A4 Avant models steer with sharpness, although Audi has tinkered with the electro-mechanical steering rack throughout the car’s production, giving later versions speed-dependent settings. It’s a nice idea, meaning the steering is lighter during low speed manoeuvres and weightier when pressing on, but in practice it feels artificial – and a bit odd, at times.
Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015): Engines
A huge engine range has been available in the Audi A4 Avant spanning its seven years in production, most of them tried and tested across myriad Audi and other Volkswagen Group brand products.
The vast majority sold are 2.0-litre TDI four-cylinder diesels, although there’s a wide span of outputs and, indeed, characteristics between them. Early (pre-2012) 2.0-litre diesels are gruffer and slightly less efficient, while post-2012 improvements saw noise and vibration reduced.
The 2.0-litre TDIe engine with 136PS and a six-speed manual offers very impressive 112g/km CO2 and 65.7mpg, but really it’s the 170PS version that provides the best balance of pace, efficiency and refinement. It will hit 62mph in 8.1 seconds, and is available with a six-speed S tronic automatic gearbox.
The 2.7-litre and later 3.0-litre V6 TDI engines are hugely impressive on account of their huge torque reserves which means they’re great for overtaking at all speeds – 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds in the case of the most powerful 3.0-litre 245PS option. But also, they’re just much nicer to listen to than the four-cylinder diesels.
The TFSI petrol engine choice is wide too, and while they’re not as frugal or as punchy at low revs, they’re generally more enjoyable – free-to-rev and tuneful. The 211PS 2.0-litre unit replaced the 3.2-litre V6 with the 2012 facelift, and although not as exotic, nor quite as quick, it’s much more efficient – a good 10mpg so.
While a six-speed manual gearbox is generally standard fit (and very solid it feels too), there are two automatic gearboxes, optional with mid-powered models and standard on some higher-powered versions.
The twin-clutch S tronic gearbox is, frankly, phenomenal in terms of the quick, shudder-free changes it’s capable of, while not degrading fuel economy at all. The Multitronic CVT, on the other hand, is an acquired taste: fine with gentle driving, but prone to whine if tasked with anything more than that.
Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015): Safety
Euro NCAP tested this generation of Audi A4 in 2009 and awarded it a full five-star rating. This has since expired as the testing regime has changed significantly since then.
However, the Audi A4 Avant remains a safe car and comes with six airbags as standard, along with ABS anti-lock brakes and ESC traction control. SE versions and above have parking sensors.
Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015): Towing
All Audi A4 Avant models of this generation can pull an unbraked trailer with a weight of up to 750kg. With a braked trailer, it’s a little more complicated as max weights vary between 1700- and 2100kg depending on which model you choose. If this is a major consideration for you, the 3.0 TDI Quattro models are the best bets for their higher towing capacity.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.8 TFSI | 39–46 mpg | 8.3–10.8 s | 141–169 g/km |
| 1.8 TFSI 120 | 39–43 mpg | 10.5–10.8 s | 154–169 g/km |
| 1.8 TFSI 170 | 44–46 mpg | 8.3 s | 141–148 g/km |
| 1.8 TFSI 170 multitronic | 44–47 mpg | 8.4 s | 139–149 g/km |
| 1.8 TFSI multitronic | 38–47 mpg | 8.4–8.9 s | 139–174 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 120 | 55 mpg | 11.2 s | 134 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 136 | 59 mpg | 9.8 s | 125 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 136 Ultra | 66 mpg | 9.6 s | 113 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 143 | 48–60 mpg | 9.5–9.7 s | 124–155 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 143 multitronic | 48–58 mpg | 9.5–9.7 s | 129–155 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 150 | 58–60 mpg | 9.5 s | 124–125 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 150 multitronic | 55–58 mpg | 9.5 s | 129–135 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 163 Ultra | 64 mpg | 8.6 s | 114 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 170 | 51 mpg | 8.6–8.7 s | 144 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 170 quattro | 49–50 mpg | 8.6 s | 149–154 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 177 | 59 mpg | 8.4 s | 126 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 177 multitronic | 58 mpg | 8.1 s | 129 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 177 quattro | 53 mpg | 7.9 s | 139 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 177 quattro S tronic | 51 mpg | 8.0 s | 144 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 190 | 57 mpg | 7.9 s | 131–136 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 190 multitronic | 55–57 mpg | 8.3 s | 131–136 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 190 quattro | 51–53 mpg | 7.6 s | 139–144 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 190 quattro S tronic | 50–51 mpg | 7.4 s | 145–149 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI Ultra | 64 mpg | 8.6 s | 114 g/km |
| 2.0 TDIe 136 | 61–64 mpg | 9.6–9.8 s | 116–120 g/km |
| 2.0 TDIe 163 | 63 mpg | 8.7 s | 120 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI | 43 mpg | 6.9–7.1 s | 154 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI 225 quattro S tronic | 38 mpg | 6.5 s | 169 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI multitronic | 46 mpg | 7.2 s | 144 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI quattro | 38–40 mpg | 6.6–6.7 s | 162–174 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic | 36–41 mpg | 6.5–7.4 s | 159–179 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI S tronic | 40 mpg | 6.6 s | 159 g/km |
| 2.7 TDI | 44 mpg | 7.9 s | 169 g/km |
| 3.0 TDI | 55 mpg | 7.3 s | 135 g/km |
| 3.0 TDI 245 quattro S tronic | 44 mpg | 6.1 s | 170 g/km |
| 3.0 TDI quattro | 42–48 mpg | 6.3 s | 154–176 g/km |
| 3.0 TDI quattro S tronic | 42–48 mpg | 6.1–6.3 s | 154–179 g/km |
| 3.2 FSI multitronic | 34 mpg | 6.6 s | 197 g/km |
| 3.2 FSI quattro | 30–31 mpg | 6.2–6.4 s | 216–219 g/km |
| 3.2 FSI quattro tiptronic | 30 mpg | 6.6 s | 219 g/km |
| S4 3.0 TFSI quattro | 28 mpg | 5.2 s | 239 g/km |
| S4 3.0 TFSI quattro S tronic | 29–36 mpg | 5.1–5.4 s | 180–224 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
79%
Real MPG
21–61 mpg
MPGs submitted
653
Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015) interior
- Boot space is 490–1430 litres
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4699–4719 mm |
| Width | 1826–2040 mm |
| Height | 1415–1436 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2808–2811 mm |
Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015): Practicality
The Audi A4 Avant is a spacious car for all occupants, with the seats set quite low throughout, meaning headroom is generous. There’s lots of rear legroom too, although S line versions with darker headlining feel less airy than those versions with lighter upper fabric.
While this is about as non-boxy as estates come, the price for that is a smaller boot than some – 490 litres stretching to 1403 litres with the split-folding rear bench down.
That compares to the 495-1500 litres of space that the 2011 BMW 3 Series Touring provides, although there are some estates in the class below, even, that offer a lot more room. The Peugeot 308 SW, for example, packs 660-1775 litres of luggage capacity.
It’s a well thought out boot in the Audi A4 Avant though, including a parcel shelf that can slide up the pillars for better access to the load space, rails on the floors and bag hooks. However, although the rear bench splits 60/40 as standard, it doesn’t drop entirely flat which can make loading longer items that little bit trickier.
Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015): Quality and finish
The build quality of the Audi A4 Avant is genuinely exceptional, in the most part. Audi has near enough perfected the art of dashboard plastic here, giving the majority of upper level surfaces a softness of touch yet underlying solidity that nothing can match in this price bracket.
And while the grey plastic that surrounds the instrument binnacle and sat nav screen seems flimsy, it’s hardly a deal breaker.
Even the buttons and dials are impressive in terms of the way they click or rotate. It’s as hefty as can be, although as the Audi A4 Avant has aged its cabin has looked progressively fussier.
Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015): Infotainment
Software updates made the Audi MMI infotainment system more manageable later on in the A4 Avant’s production run, although it remains one of the more fiddly systems, with a slightly confusing rotary dial system, a small screen and some low resolution graphics.
Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015) value for money
Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015): Prices
You can find pre-2012 facelift Audi A4 Avant models from £6000 with less than 70,000 miles on the clock. They will have plenty of life left in them while not breaking the bank to buy or run.
Later cars start at around £9000 for a 2012 facelifted car, while a late version of this era of Audi A4 Avant will cost between £10,000 and £18,000 depending on mileage, spec and engine.
Audi A4 Avant (2008 – 2015): Running Costs
With insurance ranging between Groups 19 and 36, the Audi A4 Avant should not be expensive to get cover for.
Nor will road tax be too onerous as the lowest emissions versions cost only £35 per year. However, the highest emitting versions cost substantially more at £675 based on prices at the time of writing.
Servicing is similar to the Audi A4 Avant’s rivals and recommended intervals for maintenance are 9000 miles or 12 months based on whichever comes soonest. The Audi A4 Avant has a good reputation for reliability, so running one should be simple.
When it comes to fuel cost, the 2.0 TDI Ultra models are the most frugal and have a pre-WLTP official combined economy of up to 65.6mpg.
Choose the 1.8 TFSI petrol and it claims up to 44.1mpg. Looking at our Real MPG figures, this will be around 41mpg for the 1.8 TFSI and 61mpg for the diesel.
Least efficient is the 3.2 FSI Quattro model at 31.0mpg due to its automatic gearbox and four-wheel-drive system.
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The entry-point Audi A4 Avant specification covers most of the bases with alloy wheels, electric windows and mirrors, climate control, and remote central locking.
To this, the Audi A4 Avant SE adds cruise control, three-zone climate control, Bluetooth, 10-speaker stereo, automatic headlights and wipers, and rear parking sensors. This makes the SE the sweet spot in the range.
Opt for the Audi A4 Avant S line and you get lowered, firmer suspension, although new buyers could choose to have the standard SE set-up instead. There are also LED rear lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, and sporty trim additions. All post-2012 facelift Audi A4 Avants also come with stop-start as standard for the engine.
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4699–4719 mm |
| Width | 1826–2040 mm |
| Height | 1415–1436 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2808–2811 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1470–1750 kg |
| Boot Space | 490–1430 L |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Servicing | 9000 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Space-saving spare wheel / Tyre-repair kit | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £23,280–£42,460 |
| Insurance Groups | 19–36 |
| Road Tax Bands | C–L |
| Official MPG | 27.7–65.6 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | - |
On sale until October 2015
On sale until April 2015
On sale until November 2014
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.8 TFSI SE 120 5dr | £25,985 | 42.8 mpg | 10.8 s |
| 1.8 TFSI SE 170 5dr | £27,615 | 46.3 mpg | 8.3 s |
| 1.8 TFSI SE 170 multitronic 5dr Auto | £29,080 | 47.1 mpg | 8.4 s |
| 2.0 TDI SE 150 multitronic 5dr Auto | £30,455 | 57.6 mpg | 9.5 s |
| 2.0 TDI SE quattro 177 5dr | £31,480 | 53.3 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 2.0 TDI SE quattro 177 S tronic 5dr Auto | £32,975 | 51.4 mpg | 8.0 s |
| 2.0 TDI Ultra SE 163 5dr | £29,920 | 64.2 mpg | 8.6 s |
| 2.0 TFSI quattro SE 225 S tronic 5dr Auto | £33,245 | 40.9 mpg | 6.5 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro SE 245 S tronic 5dr Auto | £36,695 | 47.9 mpg | 6.1 s |
On sale until September 2014
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.8 TFSI Black Edition 120 5dr | £29,615 | 42.8 mpg | 10.8 s |
| 1.8 TFSI Black Edition 170 5dr | £31,245 | 46.3 mpg | 8.3 s |
| 1.8 TFSI Black Edition 170 multitronic 5dr Auto | £32,710 | 47.1 mpg | 8.4 s |
| 2.0 TDI Black Edition 150 5dr | £32,605 | 60.1 mpg | 9.5 s |
| 2.0 TDI Black Edition 150 multitronic 5dr Auto | £34,085 | 57.6 mpg | 9.5 s |
| 2.0 TDI Black Edition 177 5dr | £33,550 | 58.9 mpg | 8.4 s |
| 2.0 TDI Black Edition 177 multitronic 5dr Auto | £35,030 | 57.6 mpg | 8.1 s |
| 2.0 TDI Black Edition quattro 177 5dr | £35,110 | 53.3 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 2.0 TDI Black Edition quattro 177 S tronic 5dr Auto | £36,605 | 51.4 mpg | 8.0 s |
| 2.0 TFSI Black Edition quattro 225 S tronic 5dr Auto | £36,875 | 40.9 mpg | 6.5 s |
| 3.0 TDI Black Edition quattro 245 S tronic 5dr Auto | £40,625 | 47.9 mpg | 6.1 s |
On sale until July 2013
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 TDIe (163ps) SE 5dr | £29,200 | 62.8 mpg | 8.7 s |
| 2.0 TDIe (163ps) SE Technik 5dr | £30,550 | 62.8 mpg | 8.7 s |
On sale until June 2013
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 TDI (143ps) Black Edition 5dr | £31,885 | 60.1 mpg | 9.5 s |
| 2.0 TDI (143ps) Black Edition multitronic 5dr Auto | £33,365 | 57.6 mpg | 9.5 s |
| 2.0 TDI (143ps) S line 5dr | £30,810 | 60.1 mpg | 9.5 s |
| 2.0 TDI (143ps) S line multitronic 5dr Auto | £32,290 | 57.6 mpg | 9.5 s |
| 2.0 TDI (143ps) SE multitronic 5dr Auto | £29,735 | 57.6 mpg | 9.5 s |
| 2.0 TDI (143ps) SE Technik multitronic 5dr Auto | £31,085 | 57.6 mpg | 9.5 s |
| 2.0 TFSI quattro Black Line S tronic 5dr Auto | £36,150 | 39.8 mpg | 6.6 s |
| 2.0 TFSI quattro S line S tronic 5dr Auto | £35,075 | 39.8 mpg | 6.6 s |
| 2.0 TFSI quattro SE S tronic 5dr Auto | £32,520 | 39.8 mpg | 6.6 s |
| 2.0 TFSI quattro SE Technik S tronic 5dr Auto | £33,870 | 39.8 mpg | 6.6 s |
On sale until November 2012
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 TDI (177ps) SE Technik 5dr | £29,875 | 58.9 mpg | 8.4 s |
| 2.0 TDI (177ps) SE Technik multitronic 5dr Auto | £31,355 | 57.6 mpg | 8.1 s |
| 2.0 TDI (143ps) SE 5dr | £27,755 | 60.1 mpg | 9.5 s |
| 2.0 TDI (143ps) SE Technik 5dr | £28,855 | 60.1 mpg | 9.5 s |
| 2.0 TDI (177ps) S line multitronic 5dr Auto | £32,810 | 57.6 mpg | 8.1 s |
| 2.0 TDI (177ps) SE 5dr | £28,775 | 58.9 mpg | 8.4 s |
| 2.0 TDI (177ps) SE multitronic 5dr Auto | £30,255 | 57.6 mpg | 8.1 s |
| 2.0 TFSI quattro S line 5dr | £32,930 | 40.4 mpg | 6.6 s |
| 2.0 TFSI quattro SE 5dr | £30,375 | 40.4 mpg | 6.6 s |
| 2.0 TFSI S line multitronic 5dr Auto | £32,945 | 45.6 mpg | 7.2 s |
| 2.0 TFSI SE multitronic 5dr Auto | £30,390 | 45.6 mpg | 7.2 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro S line 5dr | £36,915 | 47.9 mpg | 6.3 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro SE 5dr | £34,360 | 47.9 mpg | 6.3 s |
| 3.0 TDI S line 5dr Auto | £34,365 | 55.4 mpg | 7.3 s |
| 3.0 TDI SE 5dr Auto | £31,810 | 55.4 mpg | 7.3 s |
On sale until October 2011
On sale until June 2010
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 TDI (120 ps) S line | £28,895 | 55.4 mpg | 11.2 s |
| 2.0 TDI (120 ps) SE | £26,395 | 55.4 mpg | 11.2 s |
| 2.0 TDI (120ps) | £25,195 | 55.4 mpg | 11.2 s |
| 2.0 TDI (143ps) | £25,895 | 54.3 mpg | 9.7 s |
| 2.0 TDI (143ps) Auto | £25,895 | 47.9 mpg | 9.7 s |
| 2.0 TDI (143ps) S line | £29,595 | 54.3 mpg | 9.7 s |
| 2.0 TDI (143ps) S line Auto | £29,595 | 47.9 mpg | 9.7 s |
| 2.0 TDI (143ps) SE | £27,095 | 54.3 mpg | 9.7 s |
| 2.0 TDI (143ps) SE Auto | £27,095 | 47.9 mpg | 9.7 s |
On sale until October 2009
Model History
- February 2008: Audi A4 Avant goes on sale
- July 2008
- October 2008: All-new S4 and S4 Avant models debut
- February 2009
- October 2011: A4 facelift announced
- March 2014: Audi A4 TDI Ultra launched
February 2008
Audi A4 Avant goes on sale
First UK deliveries June 2008. UK OTR prices £23,790 to £31,490. Five engines at launch: 1.8 Turbo FSI petrol (160PS), 3.2 V6 FSI petrol (265PS), 2.0 TDI (143PS), 2.7 TDI (190PS), 3.0 TDI (240PS).
490 litres luggage space with standard split/folding rear seat in place, 1,430 litres with rear seat folded. Long wheelbase achieved through repositioning of front axle enables enhanced passenger space, particularly in the rear, and optimizes weight distribution.
Optional powered tailgate. Loads can be secured using standard luggage net and tie-down straps, or with optional telescopic bar and securing belt system first seen in the A6 Avant. First UK cars with choice of either SE or S line specification options, and with five state-of-the-art FSI direct petrol injection and common rail piezo TDI engines. Launch range engines: 160PS 1.8 Turbo FSI four-cylinder, 265PS 3.2-litre V6 FSI, 143PS 2.0-litre TDI, 190PS 2.7-litre TDI and 240PS 3.0-litre TDI.
Depending engine, option of six-speed manual gearbox, an extensively revised, faster-shifting six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission or an updated and even smoother version of the ultra-efficient multitronic continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Body more rigid than predecessor, yet around 10 per cent lighter, despite being 120mm longer. Completely new suspension and steering configuration already proven in A5 and A4 B6 saloon.
Optional Audi Drive Select enables the driver to fine-tune the dynamic characteristics of the car, including suspension settings, steering behaviour, throttle response and transmission shift points, via dashboard-mounted controls to suit personal preferences or prevailing road conditions. Driver assistance options will also include Audi Side Assist, which uses sensors to warn of vehicles approaching in mirror blind spots, and Audi Lane Assist, which guards against unintentional lane changes by activating steering wheel vibrations to alert the driver.
Latest seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission available with longitudinal engines from late 2008. Where existing six-speed S tronic was limited to the transversely mounted units in TT and A3, the latest transmission with 550Nm torque threshold can technically be fitted to new A4, A5, Q5 and more models in the future.
July 2008
New 170PS version of 2.0-litre piezo injected common rail TDI engine joins 120PS and 143PS versions in A4 Saloon and Avant models. Front-wheel-drive and quattro all-wheel-drive, and in conjunction with SE or S line specification priced from £24,600 OTR to £27,175 OTR
October 2008
All-new S4 and S4 Avant models debut
Available to order in UK from late November priced from approximately £36,000 for first deliveries in April 2009. Supercharged V6 TFSI with 333PS and 440Nm from 2,500-4,850rpm replaces naturally aspirated V8.
Six-speed manual or optional seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission that actually further improves fuel economy. Evolution of quattro system with active sport differential capable of varying torque not only between front and rear axles but also between each rear wheel. Optional Audi drive select adaptable dynamics system enables fine-tuning of throttle response, shock absorber settings and steering feel. S4 Saloon 0-62mph in 5.1 seconds (outgoing S4 5.6 seconds), top speed limited to 155mph (outgoing S4 155mph), combined mpg 29.1 (outgoing S4 21.2mpg), while emitting 225g of CO2 – 30 per cent less than its predecessor (old S4 V8
manual 322g/km).
February 2009
New S tronic twin-clutch transmission configured for longitudinal engine installations first used in Q5 SUV and S4 Saloon and Avant – now available in 2.0-litre TFSI quattro versions of the A4 and A5. Premium of £1,420 over manual transmission. A4 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic £27,170 OTR, A4 Avant 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic £28,295 OTR, A5 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic £31,065 OTR.
S tronic twin-clutch transmission delivers exceptionally rapid gearchanges with no interruption to power flow, reducing acceleration time yet retaining fuel economy and CO2 at the level of manual equivalents
A4 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds (manual 6.6), top speed 150mph (manual 153mph), combined mpg 38.2 (manual 38.2), CO2 172g/km (manual 172g/km). A4 also now available with new Executive SE and Executive S line specification options.
October 2011
A4 facelift announced
The new look accentuates the horizontal lines at the front end. The engine hood is more arched, the upper corners of the single frame grille are tapered, and the cross ribs and the Audi rings are highlighted three-dimensionally. The grille is painted grey, with high-gloss black on the six-cylinder models or in combination with the S line exterior package. The redesigned bumpers have angular air inlets, revised grilles and flat front fog lights. The A4 allroad quattro has horizontal chrome applications to the grille and round fog lights.
The headlights now have a slight wave at the bottom edges, and a re-arranged interior. Xenon plus headlights are available as optional equipment or standard on S line models. The LED daytime running lights form a narrow, optically continuous band that remains open in the vicinity of the xenon lens. The adaptive light, together with dynamic and static cornering lights, are available as an option.
The A4 Saloon and the Avant each have a length of 4.70 metres(15.42 ft), while the A4 allroad quattro and the S4 are 4.72 metres(15.49 ft)long. The wheelbases for all models are 2.81 metres(9.22 ft), and the width is 1.83 and 1.84 metres, respectively(6.0 and 6.04 ft). The height varies between 1.41 and 1.50 metres(4.63 and 4.92 ft)depending on the body version.
Interiors have also been refined. New steering wheels with chrome and high-gloss inlays, with the leather sport steering wheel also featuring a flattened lower rim. The steering arm and the ignition key have been modified. High-gloss applications and the slender chrome trim at the controls add elegance to the interior.
The MMI navigation plus system now features four instead of eight buttons, with a shift function integrated in the volume control dial. Other improvements concern operation of the automatic transmission, the efficient air conditioning systems, Audi drive select and the multifunction steering wheel. The seat heating and air conditioning are now directly operated at the respective buttons.
All interior colours – except black – have been re-coordinated. The upholstery range has also been revised, with Fine Nappa leather replacing Valcona leather. The new, single-part cluster trim has been adapted in colour to the interior, while the inlays are available in Aluminium Trigon, walnut dark brown and fine grain ash natural. Especially eye-catching is the Beaufort oak plywood inlay.
The interior of the S line sport package comes in black. 18-inch wheels or the optional 19-inch wheels and Sport suspension that lowers the body by 20 millimetres complete the package. S line sport suspension, which lowers the body by a further 10 millimetres, is also available as a no-cost option on S line models. Audi exclusive and Audi exclusive line offer further individualised options.
The most economical variant in the model family is the Audi A4 2.0 TDI with 136PS. In the Saloon, this engine helps the car achieve 67.3mpg on the combined cycle – a CO2equivalent of just 112 grams per km. The new A4 2.0 TDI with 163PS, also optimised for maximum efficiency, achieves 64.2mpg. This equates to 115 grams CO2per km. Both engines are available for the Saloon and the Avant.
In addition, two other four-cylinder diesel engines are available – with 143PS and 177PS. They can also be ordered for the allroad quattro, apart from the entry-level version. Three V6 TDI units complete the line. The 3.0 TDI with 204PS (not for the allroad quattro) is the most efficient six-cylinder engine in its class worldwide; in the A4 Saloon it helps the car achieve 57.6mpg on the combined cycle. The second variant, the 3.0 TDI, generates 245PS.
The A4 series also presents the latest state of the art in petrol engine technology. A new highlight of the TFSI family is the new 1.8-litre engine, available for the Saloon and the Avant. The four-cylinder engine delivers sporty thrust, with a power output of 170PS and 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft)of torque, and impressive economy figures of 50.4mpg and 134 grams CO2per km. That is an efficiency improvement of 19 percent compared with the predecessor engine.
The new 1.8 TFSI engine features many innovations: in the control of its valves and their lift, in the novel thermal management system, in the fuel injection system, in the turbocharger and in the integration of the exhaust manifold in the cylinder head. The engine weighs 3.5 kilograms less and its internal friction has sharply decreased.
The entry-level petrol engine is the 1.8 TFSI with 120PS. The 2.0 TFSI – as the only spark-ignition engine also available in the A4 allroad quattro – delivers 211PS. At the top of the line is the 3.0 TFSI in the sporty S4, which develops an impressive 333PS.
March 2014
Audi A4 TDI Ultra launched
Although it shares its 163PS output with the more powerful of the two TDIe engines, which until now was reserved for the A5 Coupe, the unit powering the latest ultra models is a completely new development engineered for even leaner burning with no impact on performance.
Peak power arrives 1,200rpm earlier at 3,000rpm in the new ultra engine, and maximum torque increases from 380Nm to 400Nm and is available over a wider spread from 1,750rpm to 2,750rpm. Acceleration from rest to 62mph in the exclusively six-speed manual-equipped A4 TDI Ultra is very slightly improved at 8.6 seconds and top speed holds firm at 134mph. Economy is 55.4mpg with a CO2output of 114g/km.
A4 SE equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, an Audi Concert CD audio system incorporating DAB digital radio and linked to a 6.5-inch colour monitor, light and rain sensors, rear parking sensors and electronic climate control. A5 SE models also feature Milano leather upholstery.
SE Technik specification for the A4 adds Milano leather upholstery, along with additional features such as hard disk-based MMI Navigation plus, Audi Music Interface (AMI) iPod connection and the Audi Parking System Plus with front and rear sensors.
All A4 ultra models are equipped as standard with lowered sports suspension to reduce drag and maximise economy, and for the same reason the 18-inch alloy wheels normally included as part of the SE Technik upgrade for A4 models are omitted.
What to watch out for
This only covers faults specifically reported on the Audi A4 B8 avant. For all Audi A4 B8 reported faults see Audi A4 B8 good/bad.
Multitronic models built before third week of March 2008 may not have the correct chips fitted to the transmission, cooling and charging system, so that the ECU cannot accept recoding when a towbar is retro-fitted (meaning that trailer stability control, etc cannot be engaged and potentially breaking warranty if used to tow). Audi UK is aware of this problem (but does not appear to have told its dealers) and offered one reader £1,500 towards the £3,000 cost of replacements (took three days to fit) as long as the towbar was fitted by an Audi dealer. The reader's dealer met a proportion of the remainder as the car was sold to him as suitable for towing. Can be a serious problem if having towbar retro-fitted outside dealer network.
14-03-2011:3.0 TDI V6 quattro prone to water pump failure and also prone to losing coolant from the water cooled EGR valve.
11-05-2011:Apparent "design fault" with 2.0 litre TFSI engines that leads to excessive oil consumption. One reader's 6 month old, 4000 mile A5 2.0 petrol taken in for "modification". New Audi 2.0 petrol engines already have this "modification".
28-03-2012:DMF problems starting to emerge on manual 2.0 TDI 170 where clutches are lifted at idle revs.
20-07-2012:Sporadic reports of high oil consumption of chain cam 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TFSI engines. Apparently Audi considers 1,000 miles a litre to be "normal" oil consumption for these engines. The reason is probably filling the engines with synthetic oil on the production line and owners not revving the engines sufficiently to bed in the oil rings.
25-08-2012:On the 2.0 TDI Multitronic, a combination of Multitronic and slow running torque engine plus the complex drive train route leaves the power steering pump at low pressure at some times and can cause a vibration. Best not to use too much steering lock at low speeds.
08-02-2013:Multitronic transmission failed at 2 years 10 months. Replaced under warranty.
21-02-2013:Failure reported of the Emission Control System of a TDI S line which was repaired by Audi Assist through the correct alignment of the exhaust gas pipe where it enters the pipe from the intercooler - a known problem according to the fitter covered by an Audi repair sheet on a number of A4 S-line vehicles. This did seriously and adversely affect the performance of the car as the electrically-controlled valve became heavily blocked with emission gas residue.
16-05-2013:Seems to be a problem with turbo oil seals on 2.0 TDI 143 which, in extreme cases, can send so much lube oil into the combustion chamber that the pistons can hydraulic. So the warning is to idle those turbos before switching off from hot. This came from an Audi dealer who also reported frequent 1.8 and 2.0 TFSI engine failures, but gave no detail.
23-08-2013:Excessive oil consumption reported on 58k mile 2008/58 Audi A4 Avant 2.0 TSFI Quattro bought and serviced by same dealer: Audi, Poole. 1 litre used in 800 miles. Engine rebuild needed costing £3,500, but Audi paying for parts so paying 20 hours labour at £2,200. Had just spent £650 replacing clutch master cylinder, faulty sensor resulted in various electrical issues, now resolved.
30-08-2013:Turbo failure on 21 month old 25k mile 2.0 TDI. Turbo, exhaust and DPF replaced under warranty. Stop/start system thought to be the culprit.
01-09-2013:£250 waterpump failure on chain cam 95k mile 2009 A4 2.7 TDI Multitronic, closely followed by failure of EGR cooler at £1,200, but Audi offered 70% of parts price.
21-10-2013:Water leaks onto the driver's and front passenger's feet may be due to faulty bulkhead cable seals. Can affect the ECU. Audi dealers will normally fix this under warranty or goodwill.
05-12-2013:Clutch/DMF failed on 2011 Audi A4 at 20,000 kilometres.
16-12-2013:Another clutch failure reported, this on a 35k mile 2011 A4 Avant 2.0 TDI 170 S Line, first felt as judder, diagnosed as "clutch wear", DMF and clutch both replaced at cost of £1,500.
22-01-2014:Flywheel of 52k mile 2011 A4 1.8 TSI Avant lost three teeth, making it difficult to start.
05-06-2014:Recurrent slippage problems with clutch and DMF of 2009 Audi A4 Avant 2.0 TDI 170.
09-01-2015:Judder reported from manual 2011 Audi A4 Avant at 76,000 miles.
10-04-2015:Used Approved 16k mile 2013 Audi S4 Avant bought in January 2015 suffering loss of oil pressure as soon as engine gets hot. Dealer has replaced various sensors, oil pump, oil filter but this has not solved the problem. Suspect piston oil rings. Previous owners had suffered same problem. Recommended rejection of the car.
12-06-2015:Audi A4 2.0TFSI did not get the updated EA888 manifold in head engines.
21-09-2015:Input shaft failed on 58k mile 2012 A4 2.0 TDI CVT Multitronic. Needed transmission to be rebuilt with new input shaft.
22-01-2016:Clutch and DMF problem reported on 2011 Audi A4 2.0 TDI 136PS at 42k miles.
26-09-2016:Severe oil consumption reported of 91k mile 2009 Audi A4 2.0TFSI avant quattro. Garage replaced the PCV valve (engine breather) and updated the ECU with the latest software. Badly corroded sump and front crank seal also replaced, but still needs oil wvery 300 miles. More liklely to be piston oil rings than valve stem oil seals.
14-08-2017:Report of Audi A4 B8 2.0TDI 170 manual avant requiring four replacement clutches and DMFs because of juddering. One at 20,000 when owner's father had the car. One at 35,000, one at 35,500 (replaced at the cost of Audi) and now Audi is again advising the gearbox is removed and the clutch checked. I know full well they are going to come back with it requiring a new clutch.
23-01-2018:Audi has ordered by German Federal Motor Transport Agency (KBA) to recall 127,000 cars following the alleged discovery of emissions cheat devices. Affects Audi A4, A5, A6, A7, Q5, SQ5 and Q7 cars fitted with V6TDI diesel engines. According to German newspaper Bild am Sontag (BaS), KBA ordered these vehicles be recalled after detecting “unacceptable shut-off decides” on several new V6 diesel engines which meet current EU6 emissions standards.
17-12-2018:Report of very high oil consumption of 2010 Audi A4 B8 avantwith EA888 2.0TSI engine.
15-06-2019:Report of catalogue of disaster with 2013/62 Audi A4 Avant S-Lone 1.8TFSI, engine code CJE030161. On 21st May 2018 car would not start. AA called and got it going. 22nd May again car would not start again, at 39,900 miles. AA towed to Audi dealer. Audi dealer did an analysis and discovered that the N488 coolant regulator had failed and had tracked to the V50 coolant pump, back up the wiring loom and to the engine ECU. Owner quoted £4,085.58 to effect a repair but was warned that further damage may be found once they were able to start the vehicle. This proved to be the case because it was then discovered that the parking brake control unit needed to be replaced. The total job cost me £4,588.24. Owner thens discovered that failure of the N488 on the A8, had been the reason for a safety recall for that model in the USA and Canada (Safety Recall Code 80B9.). Despite this, Audi UK refused any goodwill.
