Audi A4 III (2004–2009) Technical Specs – All About Engines, Transmissions, and Dimensions

This model, built on the PL46 platform (an evolution of the B6), offers a wide range of technical specifications, including engines, transmissions, and dimensions. In this article, we dive deep into the technical specifications of the Audi A4 III, focusing on powertrains, gearboxes, drivetrains, sizes, and curb weight. Special attention is given to aspects relevant to the US market, where the B7 A4 remains sought-after on the used market for its reliability, refinement, and premium appeal. The Audi A4 2004–2009 engines include gasoline FSI/TFSI and diesel TDI units, paired with everything from manual transmissions to the Multitronic CVT. Exterior styling, interior features, trim levels, and common issues of the generation are covered in other articles in this series.

Engines and Transmissions

The Audi A4 2004–2009 engine lineup is diverse, emphasizing efficiency and performance. Gasoline engines with direct injection (FSI/TFSI) range from 102 to 344 hp (in the S4), while TDI diesels span 115 to 233 hp. Transmissions include 5- or 6-speed manuals, Multitronic CVT, and 6-speed Tiptronic automatic. Drivetrain options are front-wheel drive (FWD) or quattro all-wheel drive with Torsen center differential. Below is a table of the main powertrains available during 2004–2009. Data reflects European specs, which largely carried over to US-market imports and models.

These powertrains deliver 0–60 mph acceleration from about 5.6 to 11.5 seconds. The Audi A4 engine overview highlights a strong preference for efficient turbo diesels in many markets, though gasoline TFSI variants were more common stateside.

Dimensions and Weight

The Audi A4 III dimensions are consistent: sedan, Avant wagon, and Cabriolet body styles. The PL46 platform provides a great balance of compactness and interior room. Curb weight starts around 2,950 lbs, with gross vehicle weight up to about 4,630 lbs. Below is a table for the main variants (sedan and Avant, most common in the US used market).

Ground clearance is approximately 5.1–5.5 inches, trunk capacity: 16.2–29.4 cu ft (sedan), 15.6–41.9 cu ft (Avant with seats folded).

Yearly Updates

The Audi A4 B7 was essentially a heavily revised B6, with key changes in 2004–2005 including the new 2.0 TFSI (200 hp) and 3.2 FSI engines, plus an updated Multitronic with seven effective ratios. In 2005, some markets saw common-rail 2.0 TDI (140 hp). 2006–2007 brought refinements to the 2.0 TDI (up to 170 hp), 2.7/3.0 TDI diesels, and optional adaptive suspension. Structurally, body rigidity was improved along with better sound insulation. In the US used market, later models (2007–2009) often feature cleaner emissions (closer to modern standards) and better overall reliability.

Key Buying Considerations

Owning a B7 Audi A4 in the United States involves factors like road conditions, fuel quality, and service availability. Engine reliability: the 1.8 T and 2.0 TFSI gasoline engines typically last 150,000–200,000+ miles, though early TFSI units can suffer oil consumption (0.5–1 qt per 1,000 miles) due to piston ring design; the 3.2 FSI requires timing chain service around 90,000–100,000 miles. TDI diesels (1.9/2.0) are durable (often 250,000+ miles), but watch for EGR and DPF issues with poor fuel. Popular US choices include the 2.0T quattro for highways or the 2.0T FWD for city driving.

Real-world fuel economy (based on US owner reports and sites like Fuelly): gasoline 1.8T–2.0T models average 20–28 mpg combined, with diesels (where available) around 30–38 mpg. Common transmission concerns: Multitronic CVT chain wear (repairs can be costly every 60,000–80,000 miles); Tiptronic is generally more durable. Quattro system needs differential fluid changes every 40,000 miles to prevent overheating. Parts availability is good through aftermarket and online sources, though genuine Audi components remain pricey (e.g., timing chain service $1,500–$2,500). When shopping used, always check for rust (especially wheel arches and underbody in salt-belt states), verify mileage via Carfax/VIN, and review service history.

Conclusion

On the US used market, the sweet spot is often the 2.0 TDI (if available) or 2.0 TFSI with manual or Tiptronic and quattro all-wheel drive. These offer the best balance of performance, Approximate market price range for well-maintained examples: $4,000–$9,000 depending on condition, mileage, and location. The 2.0T FWD variants deliver solid fuel economy (22–28 mpg combined) and reasonable maintenance costs, with strong resale demand for clean quattro models. For more spirited driving, the 2.0 TFSI (200 hp) with Multitronic is popular, though watch for oil consumption. Avoid high-mileage 3.2 FSI examples with elevated fuel use. Overall, the technical specifications of the Audi A4 III make it a versatile premium choice—opt for later examples (2007–2009) with documented maintenance history for the best ownership experience.