The Audi A4 uses a range of engines depending on generation and market, but the core modern lineup centers on a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four petrol engine, with a 2.0-liter diesel option in many regions, and a plug-in hybrid variant that combines petrol and electric power. Performance-focused variants such as the S4 use different engines altogether.
Over the current generation’s evolution, Audi has streamlined the A4 toward downsized turbocharged powerplants, often paired with a mild-hybrid system and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. All-wheel drive (quattro) is common on many trims, though front-wheel drive is available for some baseline versions in certain markets. The exact motor you get depends on model year, region, and whether you’re looking at a standard A4, a plug-in hybrid, or a performance variant.
Current engine options in the latest Audi A4
Here is a breakdown of the principal engine families you’ll encounter in contemporary A4 models, with variations by market.
- Petrol engines (TFSI): A 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four is the backbone of most A4 versions, delivering a strong mix of performance and efficiency.
- Diesel engines (TDI): A 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel is widely offered in European markets and other regions seeking improved real-world fuel economy.
These represent the core powerplants for most trims in many markets. In addition, there are hybrid options that blend electric power with the petrol engine to boost efficiency and, in some configurations, performance.
- Hybrid and plug-in hybrid: A plug-in hybrid variant (TFSI e quattro) combines a 2.0-liter turbo engine with an electric motor and a battery, enabling limited electric-only driving and higher combined output.
- Mild-hybrid technology: A 48-volt mild-hybrid system is paired with the 2.0-liter TFSI in many A4 configurations to improve efficiency and smoothness of operation.
In practice, the A4 backbone is the 2.0 TFSI, augmented by diesel options in many markets and a plug-in hybrid version for buyers seeking electric capability. Higher-performance variants such as the S4 employ different powerplants and are treated as a separate model line.
Transmission and all-wheel drive
Most A4 models use a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, with quattro all-wheel drive standard on many trims and available on others. Some markets also offer front-wheel drive for entry-level petrol variants, depending on local regulations and customer demand.
Variants and what they mean for power
For readers focused on performance, it’s important to distinguish the A4 from its higher-performance siblings. The S4 is powered by a larger engine (a 3.0-liter TFSI V6 in recent generations) and is marketed separately from the standard A4 lineup. The plug-in hybrid A4 TFSI e quattro combines internal combustion with electric propulsion for optimized efficiency or occasional electric driving.
Summary
The Audi A4’s motor options reflect its role as a compact luxury sedan with a focus on efficiency and everyday usability. The current lineup centers on a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine, with a 2.0-liter diesel option in many markets and a plug-in hybrid variant that blends petrol and electricity. Mild-hybrid systems across the range enhance efficiency, and the high-performance S4/RS variants use distinct, larger powertrains. Your exact engine choice depends on the model year and the market where you’re buying.
Which country buys the most Audi cars?
Audi Worldwide Car Sales by Top Countries and Markets in 2025
| Audi brand deliveries | Cumulative Audi Car Sales | |
|---|---|---|
| Germany | 206,290 | 198,342 |
| North America | 202,143 | 230,220 |
| China | 617,514 | 649,900 |
| Europe (excluding Germany) | 464,046 | 466,209 |
Is the Audi A4 V6 or V8?
A 2.5-litre V6 Turbocharged Direct Injection diesel engine with 150 PS (110 kW; 148 bhp) was standard on the Quattro.
What type of engine does an Audi A4 have?
2024 Audi A4 Sedan Specs
Your choice of which breathtaking 2024 Audi A4 Sedan engine is right for you will boil down to a number of factors, including performance, acceleration, and fuel efficiency. The standard 40 TFSI® 2.0L four-cylinder engine is standard across the entire lineup and boasts up to 35 highway MPG.
What Audi A4 to stay away from?
Common Issues: 4th-Gen Model
With a $6,000 repair cost according to CarComplaints, we'd steer clear of used 2011 Audi A4 models that have had excessive oil consumption in the 2.0L engine configuration.