The Audi A4 Avant (B8 8K) facelift, produced from November 2011 to 2015, represented a significant refinement of Audi’s popular compact executive wagon. Among the various engine and drivetrain configurations offered, the 3.0 TDI V6 with 245 horsepower coupled with the S tronic dual-clutch transmission and quattro all-wheel drive stands out as a premium offering. This variant aimed to deliver a blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality, catering to buyers seeking a sophisticated and capable estate car. It sat towards the top end of the A4 Avant lineup, positioned below the even more potent S4 variant but above the 2.0 TDI and 1.8 TFSI models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 Avant (B8 8K, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI V6 (245 Hp) quattro DPF S tronic |
| Start of production | November, 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 142 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 289.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 4000-4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1400-3250 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1400-3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CDUC, CKVB, CKVC |
| 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1725 kg (3802.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2295 kg (5059.61 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 490 l (17.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1430 l (50.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4699 mm (185 in.) |
| Width | 1826 mm (71.89 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2040 mm (80.31 in.) |
| Height | 1436 mm (56.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2808 mm (110.55 in.) |
| Front track | 1564 mm (61.57 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Front overhang | 862 mm (33.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1029 mm (40.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission S tronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A4 Avant (B8 8K) facelift, introduced in late 2011, brought subtle but important updates to Audi’s popular compact executive wagon. These revisions included revised styling, enhanced interior materials, and updated engine options. The 3.0 TDI V6 quattro with the S tronic transmission was a flagship variant, offering a compelling combination of performance and practicality. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s PL46 platform (also known as the B8), the A4 Avant competed with rivals like the BMW 3 Series Touring, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate, and Volvo V60. This particular engine and transmission combination was aimed at buyers who desired strong acceleration and all-weather capability without sacrificing fuel efficiency.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A4 Avant is the 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine, identified by engine codes CDUC, CKVB, or CKVC. This engine is a longitudinally mounted, turbocharged common-rail diesel. It features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, incorporating four valves per cylinder and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides increased air density for improved combustion and power output. Bosch supplied the common-rail direct injection system, operating at extremely high pressures to atomize the fuel for efficient combustion. The S tronic 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is a key component, offering rapid and smooth gear changes. Unlike a traditional automatic, the S tronic uses two separate clutches – one for odd gears and one for even gears – allowing for pre-selection of the next gear, resulting in virtually seamless shifts. This transmission is known for its responsiveness and contribution to improved fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 TDI V6 with the S tronic transmission delivers a noticeably more engaging driving experience than the lower-powered A4 Avant variants. The 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque, available from a low 1400 rpm, provides strong acceleration in any gear. The S tronic transmission complements the engine perfectly, offering quick and precise shifts, whether in automatic or manual mode. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. While not as overtly sporty as the S4, this variant offers a confident and composed ride, with well-weighted steering and a comfortable suspension setup. The gear ratios in the S tronic are tuned for a balance of performance and efficiency, allowing for relaxed cruising on the highway while still providing ample power for overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the 2.0 TDI, the 3.0 TDI offers significantly more power and refinement, while the manual transmission versions of the 3.0 TDI feel slightly more connected to the driver, but lack the seamlessness of the S tronic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0 TDI V6 quattro S tronic typically came well-equipped, often representing a mid-to-high trim level within the A4 Avant range. Standard features generally included leather upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a color display, parking sensors, and alloy wheels. Optional extras commonly specified by buyers included navigation, a premium sound system (Bang & Olufsen), adaptive cruise control, and advanced driver assistance systems like blind-spot monitoring. Interior trim options ranged from brushed aluminum to wood veneers, allowing for a degree of personalization. The dashboard layout was typical of the B8 A4, characterized by a clean and functional design.
Chassis & Braking
The A4 Avant’s chassis features a sophisticated suspension setup designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension utilizes independent multi-link suspension, while the rear employs an independent trapezoidal link setup. This configuration provides a stable and controlled ride. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing traction and stability. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.0 TDI V6 quattro S tronic A4 Avant was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its strong performance, refined engine, and comfortable ride. Fuel economy was also considered competitive for a vehicle of its size and performance. Compared to the 2.0 TDI variants, the 3.0 TDI offered a significant step up in power and refinement, justifying the higher price tag for many buyers. However, the 3.0 TDI was more expensive to maintain than the 2.0 TDI, due to the more complex engine and transmission. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the turbocharger and the S tronic transmission over the long term.
Legacy
The 3.0 TDI V6 engine proved to be a robust and reliable powerplant when properly maintained. The S tronic transmission, while offering excellent performance, requires regular servicing to ensure longevity. Today, used examples of the 2011-2015 A4 Avant 3.0 TDI V6 quattro S tronic are sought after by buyers looking for a capable and refined estate car. They represent a good value proposition, offering a blend of performance, practicality, and all-weather capability. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with the engine and transmission, and ensure that the vehicle has been well-maintained throughout its life.
