The Audi A8 L (D4, 4H) 3.0 TFSI V6 quattro Tiptronic represents a significant iteration of Audi’s flagship luxury sedan, produced from 2010 to 2013. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the D4 generation A8 lineup, it bridged the gap between the entry-level 2.8 FSI models and the high-performance 4.2 FSI and S8 variants. This long-wheelbase (L) version prioritized rear passenger comfort, making it a popular choice for chauffeur-driven executives and those seeking a supremely comfortable grand touring experience. The 3.0 TFSI engine, coupled with Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive and an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, aimed to deliver a balance of performance, efficiency, and refinement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A8 |
| Generation | A8L (D4, 4H) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TFSI V6 (290 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | July, 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 217 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp, 154.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 223.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 290 Hp @ 4850-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 96.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 2500-4850 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 2500-4850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CGWA, CGXA |
| 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 | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2530 kg (5577.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 510 l (18.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 906 l (32 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 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 | 5267 mm (207.36 in.) |
| Width | 1949 mm (76.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2111 mm (83.11 in.) |
| Height | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3122 mm (122.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1644 mm (64.72 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1003 mm (39.49 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1142 mm (44.96 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.7 m (41.67 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 | 8.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A8 L 3.0 TFSI is the CGWA or CGXA engine code, a 2.995-liter (182.77 cubic inches) V6 engine. This engine utilizes a supercharger in conjunction with direct fuel injection, a combination that provides both immediate throttle response and high peak power. The supercharger, a twin-screw type, is engaged at lower engine speeds to eliminate turbo lag, while direct injection optimizes combustion efficiency and reduces emissions. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, a staple of Audi’s premium models, offers smooth and rapid gear changes. It allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector lever.
Driving Characteristics
The 290 horsepower and 309.78 lb.-ft. of torque delivered by the 3.0 TFSI engine, combined with the quattro all-wheel drive system, resulted in a capable and confident driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 5.9 seconds. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-powered variants, the 3.0 TFSI offered ample power for everyday driving and highway passing. The Tiptronic transmission’s closely spaced gear ratios helped to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the 2.8 FSI, the 3.0 TFSI provided a noticeable performance upgrade. However, it lacked the raw power and aggressive character of the 4.2 FSI models. The quattro system provided excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and control.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A8 L 3.0 TFSI typically came standard with a high level of equipment, befitting its luxury status. This included leather upholstery, power-adjustable and heated front seats, a premium audio system, a navigation system, and a sunroof. Optional extras included rear seat entertainment, massaging seats, adaptive cruise control, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to aluminum accents. The long wheelbase provided generous rear legroom, making it a particularly comfortable choice for passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The A8 L featured an independent multi-link suspension at the front and an independent suspension on a trapezoidal lever at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension was tuned to prioritize ride quality over outright sportiness. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The A8 L’s chassis was designed to minimize noise, vibration, and harshness, contributing to a refined driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A8 L 3.0 TFSI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and strong performance. Fuel economy, at 25.3 US mpg combined, was considered respectable for a large luxury sedan. Compared to the 2.8 FSI, the 3.0 TFSI offered a significant performance boost without a substantial increase in fuel consumption. The 4.2 FSI models, while offering more power, were more expensive and less fuel-efficient. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system.
Legacy
The Audi A8 L (D4, 4H) 3.0 TFSI V6 quattro Tiptronic remains a desirable used luxury car. The 3.0 TFSI engine has proven to be relatively reliable, although regular maintenance is crucial. The supercharger, while providing excellent performance, may require eventual rebuilding. The Tiptronic transmission is generally durable, but fluid changes should be performed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Today, these A8 L models offer a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and value in the used car market, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable and refined grand touring experience.
