The second generation, built on the evolution of the platform (MLB Evo), represented a leap in technological
sophistication and thermodynamic efficiency. Launched in Europe in 2016 and in Brazil in 2017, it maintained
the proportions but sharpened the lines.
MLB Evo Architecture and Weight Reduction
The MLB Evo utilized a smart mix of materials (aluminum, ultra-high-strength steel, and magnesium) to
reduce the total vehicle weight by up to 60 kg, despite the increase in dimensions and the amount of
electronic equipment. The front suspension became a redesigned five-link setup, separating longitudinal and
transverse forces to improve comfort and precision.
Launch Strategy in Brazil (2017)
The national launch in 2017 was aggressive, with four distinct configurations, all based on the 2.0
TFSI engine, but with radically different calibrations.
The 2.0 TFSI B-Cycle (Miller) Engine
The great technical innovation was the 190 hp engine (used in the Attraction and Ambiente versions). It
operates under what Audi calls the "B-Cycle", a variation of the Miller Cycle.
- Mechanism: The intake valves close well before the piston reaches bottom
dead center (BDC) during intake. This creates an effective compression stroke that is shorter than the
expansion stroke.
- Result: An extremely high geometric compression ratio (11.7:1) for a turbo
engine, allowing it to extract maximum energy from the fuel. In practice, this engine delivers economy
car fuel consumption (averages of 11 to 13 km/l on the highway) with sports car torque (320 Nm).
The End of the CVT and the Rise of the S-Tronic
The second generation definitively eliminated the Multitronic gearbox. All versions, including
front-wheel-drive ones, began using the 7-speed S-Tronic transmission (oil-bathed dual-clutch). The
front-wheel-drive version uses the DL382 gearbox, optimized for efficiency and low CO2 emissions.
Launch Versions and Prices (Brazil 2017):
- Attraction (R$ 189,990): 190 hp. Focused on fleet owners and entry into the brand.
Ambiente (R$ 213,990): 190 hp. Introduced the Audi Virtual Cockpit (100%
digital 12.3" dashboard) and MMI Plus navigation.
- Ambition (R$ 239,990): 252 hp. Conventional Otto cycle engine, focused on
performance. 0-100 km/h in about 6 seconds. Quattro drive.
Ambition Plus (R$ 268,990): 252 hp. Complete package with Full LED Matrix
headlights and advanced driving assistants.
The 2020 Facelift (B9.5) and Mild Electrification (MHEV)
In 2020, the model received its mid-life update. Visually, changes focused on the front grille (wider
and flatter) and the trapezoidal exhaust outlets. Inside, the MMI rotary push-button was eliminated in favor
of a 10.1-inch touchscreen with haptic and acoustic feedback.
Mild Hybrid Technology (MHEV): The biggest invisible change was the introduction of the
12-volt mild hybrid system across all 2.0 TFSI powertrains. A belt alternator starter (BAS) connects to the
crankshaft, allowing:
- Kinetic energy recovery during braking (up to 5 kW).
- "Coasting" Function: The engine can shut off completely at cruising speeds (between 55 and
160 km/h) when the driver takes their foot off the accelerator, keeping electrical systems active via an
additional lithium-ion battery.
- Enhanced Start-Stop: The engine shuts off even before the car comes to a complete stop
(below 22 km/h).
New Version Nomenclatures (2020+): Audi reorganized the names to reflect global power output
ranges:
- 40 TFSI: Former 190 hp (now adjusted to 204 hp). Versions: Prestige and
Prestige Plus.
- 45 TFSI: Former 252 hp (adjusted to 249 hp or 261 hp). Version: Performance
Black.