Audi’s A4 B9 (model 8W) falls under the category of entry-level luxury/compact executive vehicles. represents the market sector “D (large automobiles)”. Since 2015, the vehicle is available in 4-door sedan and station wagon body configurations. 2018 and 2019 saw a significant “face lift” during a model run.
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B5 (1996-2001)
Due to a negative brand reputation and an outdated product selection, the first-generation Audi A4 was created. Although A4 production started in 1994, the car wouldn’t reach the United States until the 1996 model year. The A4 signified a complete redesign of the brand’s compact luxury sedan from the previous Audi 80. The first-generation Audi A4, which was built on the Volkswagen B5 chassis, came standard with a 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive, with a 2.8-liter V-6 and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system available as upgrades. Standard transmissions included a five-speed manual and a Tiptronic manual-shiftable automatic based on Porsche technology. A minor visual update arrived in 1999, along with a new 2.8-liter V-6 engine with 30 valves and more power than the 1.8T basic engine. The 30-valve, 2.8-liter V-6 twin-turbocharged S4 performance model with a six-speed manual transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive was available in the United States. It produced 250 horsepower. A wagon, known as the Avant, was additionally offered in addition to the sedan body style. This first-generation A4 was successfully sold in the United States through the 2001 model year, effectively helping to rebuild the Audi brand in the region.
B6 (2002-2004)
On the new lighter, stronger, and bigger B6 platform, the second-generation Audi A4 made its debut in the United States for the 2002 model year. On most models, a manual transmission remained the default setting, while the preceding Tiptronic automatic was swapped out for a CVT transmission. There were sedan, wagon, and two-door cabriolet body types in addition to front- or Quattro all-wheel drive. The 1.8-liter turbo-four remained the base engine, but the 2.8-liter V-6 was swapped out for a 3.0-liter engine with 220 horsepower. From 2003 on, a new 4.2-liter V-8 engine with 339 horsepower was added to the S4 performance sedan.
B7 (2005-2008)
Despite the fact that the B7 designation was given to the third generation, this model is more of a thorough update than a completely new one. Finally, the 1.8-liter turbo-four was replaced with a brand-new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 200 horsepower, direct fuel injection, and a four-valve head in place of the prior five-valve head. The original five-speed manual transmission was replaced by a six-speed standard across the board, and the 3.0-liter V-6 was swapped out for a 3.2-liter model that also featured direct injection for the first time. While the CVT persisted in 2.0-liter vehicles, those choosing a self-shifting transmission with the new V-6 engine were given the option of a new conventional six-speed Tiptronic automatic. For the first time in this series, comforts like Bluetooth compatibility and a full-color navigation system were available, although the S5 kept on with its 4.2-liter V-8 and Quattro all-wheel drive.
B8 (2009-2016)
Audi’s flagship sedan, the A4, once again grew in size with a new Audi Modular Longitudinal Platform shared with the A5 model for the 2009 model year in the U.S. (one year later than the European market). The new A4 was noticeably bigger than the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class it competed against, measuring five inches longer, two inches wider, and with a wheelbase that was six inches longer. A new 3.2-liter V-6 engine with 265 horsepower was the only option at launch, and sedan, wagon, and convertible models were still on the order list. An revised 2.0-liter turbo-four with new “valvelift” technology would soon come after it, boosting output to 211 horsepower and, more importantly, torque to 258 lb-ft. The optional Audi Driving Select, which offers several drive and suspension settings, and the Audi MMI display interface were at this point settling into their groove as in-car luxuries and infotainment systems. A new eight-speed automatic transmission was added to the Quattro variants in 2011, replacing the six-speed manual and CVT in front-drive cars. A mid-cycle revamp in 2013 included more aggressive exterior styling in line with A5 revisions and debuted electric power steering assistance. By that time, the 4.2-liter V-8 in the S4 had been replaced with a 3.0-liter V-6 that was supercharged and produced 333 horsepower. A seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission was an optional addition.
B9 (2017-present)
The new Audi A4 B9 model was the company’s major announcement for the year. With innovative aluminum brake and suspension components, a five-link front and rear design, and other features, Audi stated that 90% of the new A4 is actually brand-new. The B9 A4 was introduced in the US with two new engines: a 188-horsepower TDI turbodiesel four and a new 248-horsepower TFSI turbocharged four-cylinder. While the car is slightly larger than its predecessor, the seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission is now standard, and the use of lightweight materials has reduced weight by roughly 100 pounds. Although updated with the new “Virtual Cockpit” architecture, MMI infotainment is still available. Do you want a wagon version? The Audi A4 Allroad, which has an increased body height and Quattro all-wheel drive, was introduced for the 2018 model year; the conventional Avant and cabriolet are no longer offered for the American market. The new S4 debuted in 2018 as well, replacing the old supercharged component with a 3.0-liter V-6 that is turbocharged and produces 349 horsepower. Unfortunately, the S4 no longer has a manual transmission option and instead comes standard with an eight-speed automatic. The A4 lineup received a facelift for the 2020 model year, but the fundamental powertrains remained the same.
Audi A4 Highlights
While the S4 has never been a weakling in any of its versions over the years, just one A4-related model has attracted enthusiasts’ attention: the RS4. The A4’s sportiest variations, known by the initials RSfor Renn Sportwere these vehicles; sadly, many of themlike the original B5 RS4 Avantwere never offered for sale in the United States. In both sedan and cabriolet body types, the RS4 made its debut in America as a B7 in 2006 and was equipped with a Getrag six-speed manual transmission and an altered version of Audi’s 4.2-liter V-8 engine producing 414 horsepower with an 8,000 rpm redline. Sadly, it was scrapped shortly after, and despite the fact that Audi presently sells the RS4 Avant in other countries, there are no plans to bring the vehicle to the power-hungry American market.
Audi A4 Buying Tips
When purchasing a used Audi A4, there are often a ton of things that might go wrong because they are high-end vehicles with lots of technology and luxury features. For this reason, we advise purchasing any used A4 from a dealership’s certified pre-owned program with a warranty unless you are mechanically adept or have a sizable budget for repairs. If a B5 S4 or B7 RS4 was very well-kept, we might make an exception, but again, make sure your repairs fund is well-stocked. There aren’t many fixes that will get you out the door of your neighborhood service center for less than $400.
What B9 Audis exist?
The Audi A4 is a line of small executive automobiles manufactured by the German automaker Audi, a division of the Volkswagen Group, since 1994.
The Volkswagen Group B platform serves as the foundation for the five models of the A4. The Audi 80 was followed by the first-generation A4. The A4 is treated as a continuation of the Audi 80 lineage according to the automaker’s internal numbering, which assigns the initial A4 to the B5-series, which is then followed by the B6, B7, B8, and B9. The Volkswagen Group MLB platform, which is used by a number of vehicles and brands across the Volkswagen Group, is the foundation for the A4’s B8 and B9 versions.
The Audi A4 B8 and B9 what?
The new Audi A4 has lost weight, and the significant alterations have taken place beneath the surface. The B9 generation is about 120 kg lighter and more aerodynamic than its B8 predecessor because to its lightweight design. In turn, this promotes fuel consumption. The latest model is bigger both inside and out and feels more upscale despite the crash diet. Despite the fact that the B9 is 25 mm longer and 16 mm broader than the B8, those differences matter.
The A4 is incredibly smooth to drive because to extensive work on NVH suppression and suspension refinement. The Audi’s dynamic reactions have been improved as a result of the addition of an electronic front differential and minor modifications to the steering setup. An adaptable suspension might be an advantageous option, depending on the model you choose.
Is A4 B9 trustworthy?
The current B9 generation is not only one of the most trustworthy compact luxury cars on the market, it is also very dependable all around. Consumer Reports has given the A4 its top 5/5 rating for overall dependability since 2018. The 2.0-liter TFSI engine, which has been improved continually since 2006, is a crucial component.
A 12-volt mild-hybrid system for the 2.0T motor that adds a new electric variable was introduced by Audi for 2021. Although the added complexity may cause issues as the 2021 cars age, the new engine won’t necessarily be any less dependable. It could also not.
Since the Q5 uses the same engine, it ought to be trustworthy as well, right? Consumer Reports appears to disagree. For expected reliability, they assigned the 2021 Q5 a score of 3/5 and the 2020 Q5 a score of 2/5. There are undoubtedly other aspects of the Q5 that reduce its score. Yet during the previous five years, Audi has sold more Q5s than A4s combined.
The Audi B9 is produced where?
Two production facilities produce the B9 series. Only the sedan is constructed in Neckarsulm, with the Avant and S variants being assembled at the Audi facility in Ingolstadt.
What does Audi’s B8 stand for?
The fifth generation of mid-sized Audi sedans, coupes, convertibles, and Avants, manufactured between 2008 and 2016, is designated by the chassis code B8/8.5. The A3, S3, and TT are among the models in the range that fall above the little “A” chassis and below the “C” chassis, which is made up of the A6 and S6. The S4 and S5 are built on the same MLB platform as the Porsche Macan and other Audi sedans. The B8 and the B8.5 are the two different chassis codes for the fifth generation of the S4. The B8.5 covers the S5 from 20132016, while the B8 covers the S5 from 20082012 and the S4 from 20102012.
Volkswagen Group revealed its intention to create a standardized, interchangeable bin of parts that its many manufacturers could share in order to consolidate parts and reduce R&D expenses. The B8, A5, and S5 were used to introduce the MLB, which stands for “Modular Longitudinal Matrix” in German. Since then, it has also included the Porsche Macan, the Audi A4, A6, A7, and A8. With the A5 and S5, the B8 platform was the first to employ MLB architecture.
On and off the racetrack, the B8/8.5 competed head-to-head with the other high-performance luxury sedans in its class. The B8/8.5 was tested against the E90 335i, W211 E63, CTS-V, and ATS 3.6 both in showrooms and in magazines. When competing against Mercedes and BMW in the DTM, or German Touring Car Championship, Audi showed off their B8/8.5 chassis on the track. Mike Rockenfeller helped Audi win the championship in 2013.
When the B8 S4 was first unveiled in 2010, it represented a considerable design improvement over the outgoing B7. To provide the new S-models much greater agility, the redesigned chassis had shorter overhangs and a firmer chassis. A forced-induction V6 made a comeback in the S4’s engine compartment with the B8 as well. The venerable 4.2L naturally aspirated V8 is a legend in its own right, albeit more so for its frequent issues than its power. A roots-type supercharger was added to the new 3.0t engine to make up for a decrease in cylinder count and displacement.
However, the B8 initially had seven fewer horsepower than its predecessor, which was theoretically a step back. The B8 is substantially faster than the B7 in actual use, though. The V6 has a fatter and flatter torque curve thanks to the supercharger than the original V8 had. Additionally, the horsepower is distributed over a wider curve, providing the B8 more usable power.
The 3.0t was installed by engineers in the company’s new S4 and S5 Cabrio, although the 4.2L V8 remained in the S5 Coupe until the B8.5 was released in 2013.
By the time Audi’s B8/8.5 production came to an end in 2016, over 57,000 had been sold. Since then, S4s and S5s with 3.0t engines have developed as performance mainstays on the used market. With a few tweaks, their dependable power plants may readily produce a large increase in power above stock. They are encased in a large, comfortable chassis that can comfortably navigate inclement weather in classic Audi form.
How can I speed up my B9 A4?
You’ll need to add these aftermarket A4 B9 Mods to turn your Audi A4 B9 into a 350hp machine:
- Tune
- Intake
- Power Pipe
- Intercooler
- Exhaust Turboback
- GFB DV+
Audi A4 B8: What is it?
The Audi A4 B8 (model 8K) is under the category of entry-level luxury/compact executive vehicles. represents the market sector “D (large automobiles)”. Between 2007 and 2016, the vehicle was marketed in 4-door sedan and station wagon body styles. In 2012, there was a significant alteration (or “face lift”) during a model run.
What variations of the Audi A4 are there?
- 2020 – Now Facelift for the Audi A4 Sedan B9 (5th Gen).
- 2019 Audi A4 Sedan B9 Model Years (5th Gen)
- Audi A4 Sedan B8 (4th Gen) Facelift, 20132016.
- A4 Sedan B8 from 2009 to 2012. (4th Gen)
- Audi A4 Sedan B7, 20062008 (3rd Gen)
- Audi A4 Sedan B6 20022005 (2nd Gen)
- Audi A4 Sedan B5 (1st Gen) Facelift, 19992001.
Which Audi A4 engine is the most trustworthy?
Volkswagen owns Audi, therefore the two companies frequently employ the same engines. The 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engines are typically the most dependable, just like with pre-owned Volkswagens. The 1.8T EA113, which was initially created for Audi, is regarded by Haynes Manuals as the greatest engine for a VW. Its successor, the EA888, is lauded by And It Still Runs, Car Engineer, Grassroot Motorsports, and Magic Auto Center.
Given the engine issues the 2.0T-equipped 20092010 Audi A4 has, this could appear incongruous. According to The Drive, there was even a class action lawsuit involving the EA888 engines. specifically regarding high oil consumption and malfunctioning timing-chain tensioners. However, according to MotorReviewer, those problems were exclusive to the ‘Gen 2’ EA888 engines.
According to Car and Driver, Audi started using the ‘Gen 3’ EA888 engines in 2012. According to Engines Work, they don’t experience the same problems as the Gen 1 and Gen 2 ones. Additionally, any early ignition-coil failures have been fixed with current, redesigned replacement parts.
They do, indeed, accumulate carbon, but all direct-injection engines do as well. Thermostat housing and PCV valve failure are the only other probable issues with Gen 3 EA888 engines, according to reports from VW Tuning and FCP Euro. However, according to Car Worklog, these seem to be caused by aging and poor care.
According to Motor Reviewer, the 1.8T and 2.0T EA113 engines are also reasonably reliable if you don’t want to deal with potential EA888 problems. After all, the 1.8T was a feature of the original Audi TT, one of the most dependable used Audis.
The EA113 engines are infamous for consuming oil, however that is a feature rather than a fault, according to TorqueCars. Additionally, according to Bar-TekTuning, the component connecting the high-pressure fuel pump with the crankshaft on 2.0T engines can malfunction. Fortunately, kits exist to transform the EA113 into the improved version of the part found on the EA888.