The Audi A4 Avant (B9 8W) 45 TDI quattro tiptronic, produced from February 2019 to May 2019, represents a refined iteration of Audi’s popular compact executive estate. This variant slots into the mid-to-upper range of the B9 A4 Avant lineup, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality geared towards drivers seeking a premium wagon experience. It builds upon the facelifted B9 generation (introduced in 2018), incorporating updated styling cues and enhanced technology. The “45 TDI” designation, part of Audi’s revised naming scheme, doesn’t directly correlate to engine displacement but rather indicates a position within the model hierarchy, signifying a step up from the base diesel offerings.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 Avant (B9 8W, facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 45 TDI (231 Hp) quattro tiptronic |
| Start of production | February, 2019 |
| End of production | May, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.7-7.5 l/100 km (35.1 – 31.4 US mpg, 42.2 – 37.7 UK mpg, 14.9 – 13.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 176-195 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 6.7-6.9 l/100 km (35.1 – 34.1 US mpg, 42.2 – 40.9 UK mpg, 14.9 – 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 4.5-4.7 l/100 km (52.3 – 50 US mpg, 62.8 – 60.1 UK mpg, 22.2 – 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 5.3-5.5 l/100 km (44.4 – 42.8 US mpg, 53.3 – 51.4 UK mpg, 18.9 – 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 139-145 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 | 249 km/h (154.72 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 133.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 289 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 231 Hp @ 3250-4750 rpm |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1750-3250 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1750-3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DCPE |
| 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.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1730 kg (3814 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 505 l (17.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1510 l (53.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4738 mm (186.54 in.) |
| Width | 1842 mm (72.52 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2022 mm (79.61 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2820 mm (111.02 in.) |
| Front track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Front overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1038 mm (40.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m (38.06 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 |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 | 225/50 R17; 245/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A4 Avant 45 TDI is the 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged diesel engine, designated as the DCPE code. This engine is a member of Audi’s modular engine family, known for its robust construction and refined operation. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine features a single turbocharger with an intercooler to manage intake air temperature, boosting power and efficiency. The valvetrain employs a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to the engine’s broad torque curve. Paired with this engine is Audi’s eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth and quick shifts, and offers both automatic and manual shift modes. The tiptronic transmission is designed to handle the high torque output of the V6 diesel, providing seamless power delivery.
Driving Characteristics
The 231 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque produced by the 3.0 TDI engine, combined with the quattro all-wheel-drive system and eight-speed tiptronic transmission, result in a confident and capable driving experience. Acceleration to 60 mph takes approximately 5.8 seconds, making it a brisk performer for a wagon. The tiptronic transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth upshifts and downshifts, and keeping the engine within its optimal power band. Compared to the lower-powered 2.0-liter TDI variants, the 3.0 TDI offers significantly more effortless acceleration and passing power. While not as engaging as a manual transmission, the tiptronic offers a good balance of convenience and control. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 45 TDI quattro tiptronic typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position in the A4 Avant lineup. Standard features generally included Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a 7-inch display, tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power liftgate. Optional extras often included a larger MMI display, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. Interior trim levels varied, with options for different wood or aluminum inlays. The instrument cluster featured Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, a fully digital display that provides customizable information to the driver.
Chassis & Braking
The A4 Avant features a sophisticated chassis design, utilizing an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The 45 TDI variant typically came with ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control are standard safety features. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A4 Avant 45 TDI quattro tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and practical wagon body style. Fuel economy was also a strong point, with combined fuel consumption figures ranging from 35.1 to 31.4 US mpg. Compared to the 2.0-liter TDI variants, the 3.0 TDI offered a more premium driving experience, but at a higher price point. The 3.0 TDI also offered better refinement and lower noise levels compared to the smaller engine. Reliability was generally good, although diesel engines can be more susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly.
Legacy
The 3.0-liter TDI engine found in the A4 Avant 45 TDI has proven to be a durable and reliable powertrain when properly maintained. The tiptronic transmission is also known for its longevity. In the used car market, these models hold their value relatively well, particularly those with lower mileage and a full service history. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and the cost of maintaining a diesel engine. The A4 Avant 45 TDI quattro tiptronic remains a compelling option for buyers seeking a practical, refined, and capable premium wagon.
