The Audi A8 (D4, 4H facelift) 3.0 TDI, produced from 2013 to 2015, represents a significant refinement of Audi’s flagship luxury sedan. This variant, powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V6 engine producing 258 horsepower and paired with an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, occupied a crucial middle ground in the A8 lineup. It offered a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and luxury features, appealing to buyers seeking a sophisticated grand tourer. The facelift brought updated styling, enhanced technology, and improved fuel economy compared to the pre-facelift D4 models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A8 |
| Generation | A8 (D4,4H facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI V6 clean diesel (258 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 155 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.3 kg/Hp, 137.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 308.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 258 Hp @ 4000-4250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87 Hp/l |
| Torque | 580 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (427.79 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CTBA |
| Engine displacement | 2967 cm3 (181.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91.4 mm (3.6 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.9 l (13.63 US qt | 11.35 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2570 kg (5665.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 690 kg (1521.19 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 490 l (17.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal | 18.04 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 95 kg (209.44 lbs.) |
| Length | 5135 mm (202.17 in.) |
| Width | 1949 mm (76.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2111 mm (83.11 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2992 mm (117.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1644 mm (64.72 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1000 mm (39.37 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1143 mm (45 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.3 m (40.35 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A8 (D4, 4H facelift) 3.0 TDI, launched in 2013 and continuing through 2015, was a key variant within the second generation of Audi’s flagship sedan. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s D4 platform (also underpinning the Porsche Panamera and Bentley Continental GT), the facelift brought significant updates to the A8, including revised styling, a more efficient engine lineup, and enhanced technology. The 3.0 TDI model was specifically designed to appeal to European and Asian markets where diesel engines were highly favored due to their fuel efficiency and torque characteristics. In the US market, where diesel adoption was lower, the A8 was primarily offered with gasoline engines. This variant aimed to provide a balance between luxury, performance, and economy, making it a popular choice for discerning buyers.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A8 3.0 TDI lies the CTBA engine code, a 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged diesel engine. This engine is a member of Audi’s modular engine family, known for its robust construction and advanced technology. The CTBA utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A single turbocharger with variable geometry turbine (VGT) technology provides a broad torque curve and responsive acceleration. The engine also features an intercooler to cool the intake air, further enhancing performance. The eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission is a crucial component, offering smooth and precise gear changes. It allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. The transmission is designed to handle the engine’s substantial torque output and contribute to overall efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The A8 3.0 TDI delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. The 580 Nm (427.79 lb-ft) of torque available from 1750-2500 rpm provides effortless acceleration in everyday driving situations. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-output gasoline variants, the 3.0 TDI offers a 0-60 mph time of around 5.6 seconds, which is more than adequate for most drivers. The eight-speed Tiptronic transmission is well-tuned, providing seamless gear changes and contributing to a relaxed cruising experience. The quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions. Compared to the 4.2-liter V8 models, the 3.0 TDI prioritizes fuel efficiency and torque delivery over outright horsepower. The manual transmission options, available in some markets, offered a more engaging driving experience, but the Tiptronic provided superior convenience and smoothness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A8 3.0 TDI typically came well-equipped, reflecting its status as a luxury sedan. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a multi-function steering wheel, a premium sound system, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, including ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included features like adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced parking assistance systems. Interior trim options varied, with choices in wood veneers, aluminum accents, and leather colors. The A8 offered a high level of customization, allowing buyers to tailor the vehicle to their individual preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The A8 3.0 TDI features an independent suspension system on all four wheels, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The front suspension utilizes a multi-link design, while the rear suspension employs a trapezoidal link setup. This configuration minimizes body roll and maximizes ride quality. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control system helps to maintain control during emergency braking maneuvers. The A8’s chassis is designed to provide a balance between comfort and handling, offering a refined driving experience without sacrificing stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A8 3.0 TDI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. Critics noted that the diesel engine provided ample power for everyday driving, while the Tiptronic transmission offered smooth and seamless gear changes. Compared to the gasoline-powered A8 variants, the 3.0 TDI offered significantly better fuel economy, making it an attractive option for drivers who prioritize efficiency. However, some critics found the engine to be slightly noisier than the gasoline engines. Against competitors like the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the A8 3.0 TDI offered a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and value.
Legacy
The Audi A8 (D4, 4H facelift) 3.0 TDI has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The CTBA engine is known for its longevity, provided it is properly maintained. The Tiptronic transmission is also generally reliable, although regular fluid changes are essential. In the used car market, these A8s remain desirable due to their combination of luxury, performance, and fuel efficiency. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues, particularly on vehicles that have primarily been used for short trips. Overall, the A8 3.0 TDI represents a well-engineered and sophisticated luxury sedan that continues to offer a compelling ownership experience.
