The Audi A8 (D4, 4H facelift) 3.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic, produced from 2013 to 2017, represents a significant iteration of Audi’s flagship luxury sedan. This variant, positioned as a mid-range offering within the D4 facelift range, blended performance, technology, and comfort, appealing to buyers seeking a refined driving experience without the outright expense of the higher-trim models like the 4.0 TFSI. It built upon the foundation of the A8 (D4) platform (internally designated 4H), which debuted in 2010, incorporating styling updates and technological enhancements in the 2013 facelift.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A8 |
| Generation | A8 (D4,4H facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TFSI V6 (310 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 183 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp, 169.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 240.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 310 Hp @ 5200-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 103.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 2900-4750 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 2900-4750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA837 evo / CREA |
| Engine displacement | 2995 cm3 (182.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.95 l (7.34 US qt | 6.12 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.4 l (13.1 US qt | 10.91 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1830 kg (4034.46 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2520 kg (5555.65 lbs.) |
| Max load | 690 kg (1521.19 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 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%) | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2300 kg (5070.63 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.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.3 m (40.35 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| 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, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| 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; 235/55 R18; 255/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17; 8J x 18; 9J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A8 3.0 TFSI lies the EA837 evo engine, a 3.0-liter supercharged V6. This engine, a staple in the Volkswagen Group’s lineup, utilizes a Roots-type supercharger combined with direct fuel injection and multi-port manifold injection. This combination delivers both low-end torque and high-end power. The engine code CREA is specific to this output and configuration. The supercharger provides instant boost, mitigating turbo lag often associated with turbocharged engines, while direct injection optimizes combustion efficiency. The engine produces 310 horsepower at 5200-6500 rpm and 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque between 2900-4750 rpm. Paired with this engine is an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, offering smooth and responsive gear changes. The Tiptronic system allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 TFSI with the Tiptronic transmission delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-powered variants, it provides ample acceleration for everyday driving and highway cruising. The supercharger ensures strong off-the-line performance, and the eight-speed transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI models, the 3.0 TFSI offers a significant performance upgrade, while remaining more fuel-efficient than the 4.0 TFSI. The automatic transmission, while smooth, doesn’t offer the same level of engagement as a manual gearbox, but its ease of use and efficiency are well-suited to the A8’s luxury positioning. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A8 3.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, a premium sound system, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, and a navigation system. Optional extras included features like adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, massaging seats, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Trim levels varied slightly by market, but generally, this variant sat in the middle of the A8 range, offering a balance of luxury and performance. Interior finishes were typically high-quality wood or aluminum trim, and a range of exterior colors were available.
Chassis & Braking
The A8 (D4) features an independent suspension system all around, with air suspension available as standard on the 3.0 TFSI. This air suspension provides a remarkably smooth and comfortable ride, automatically adjusting to road conditions. The front suspension utilizes a multi-link design, while the rear employs a trapezoidal link setup. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The A8 also incorporates advanced safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and traction control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A8 3.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined driving experience, comfortable interior, and advanced technology. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI, the 3.0 TFSI offered a noticeable performance improvement, making it a more compelling choice for buyers prioritizing power. Against the 4.0 TFSI, it offered a more balanced combination of performance and fuel economy. Fuel economy figures averaged around 30.2 US mpg combined, making it relatively efficient for a large luxury sedan. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system and air suspension components.
Legacy
The Audi A8 (D4) 3.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic remains a desirable used luxury car. The EA837 engine, while not without its potential maintenance needs (timing chain tensioners being a known point of concern), is generally considered robust when properly maintained. The Tiptronic transmission is also known for its durability. Today, these A8s offer a significant amount of luxury and technology for their price point, making them an attractive option for buyers seeking a comfortable and capable grand tourer. The combination of performance, comfort, and all-wheel-drive capability ensures that this variant continues to hold its appeal in the used car market.
