The Audi A4 (B5) facelift, produced from 1999 to 2000, represented a significant mid-cycle refresh of Audi’s popular compact executive car. Among the various engine and transmission combinations offered, the 2.4-liter V6 30V paired with the Tiptronic automatic transmission holds a unique position. This variant aimed to provide a balance of performance and convenience, appealing to buyers who desired the refinement of a V6 engine without the involvement of a manual gearbox. It sat in the mid-to-upper range of the B5 A4 lineup, offering more power than the four-cylinder options but remaining more accessible than the higher-performance S4 model.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 (B5, Typ 8D, facelift 1999) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 V6 30V (165 Hp) Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.9 l/100 km (15.8 US mpg, 19 UK mpg, 6.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 120.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 168.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 165 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 3200 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | AML, APS, ARJ |
| Engine displacement | 2393 cm3 (146.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77.4 mm (3.05 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 5 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt, 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt, 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1365 kg (3009.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1915 kg (4221.85 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 440 l (15.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal, 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4479 mm (176.34 in.) |
| Width | 1733 mm (68.23 in.) |
| Height | 1415 mm (55.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2617 mm (103.03 in.) |
| Front track | 1498 mm (58.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1479 mm (58.23 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Suspension with traction connecting levers |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A4 variant is the 2.4-liter V6 engine, specifically the AML, APS, or ARJ engine code depending on the exact production date and market. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 30-valve (5 valves per cylinder) V6, utilizing a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design. The engine employs multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. This system, while not as advanced as direct injection, provided reliable and predictable performance. The V6 configuration itself contributes to a smoother power delivery and a more refined engine note compared to inline-four engines. The Tiptronic transmission is a 5-speed automatic with a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to have some control over gear selection. It uses a torque converter for smooth launches and low-speed driving, and electronically controlled hydraulics to manage gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The 165 horsepower and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque offered by this combination provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9.3 seconds, making it competitive with other cars in its class. The Tiptronic transmission, while offering convenience, wasn’t known for its lightning-fast shifts. In automatic mode, it prioritized smooth transitions over aggressive acceleration. Utilizing the Tiptronic manual shift mode allowed for more spirited driving, but it still lacked the immediacy of a traditional manual gearbox. Compared to the 1.8T models, the V6 offered a more linear power delivery and a broader torque curve, making it feel less reliant on turbo boost. However, it was less fuel-efficient than the turbocharged four-cylinder options.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4 V6 Tiptronic A4 typically came with a reasonably well-equipped standard package. This included features like power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and an upgraded audio system. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, though leather was available as an option. Common optional extras included a sunroof, heated front seats, and upgraded alloy wheels. The dashboard layout was typical of the B5 A4, with a functional and understated design. The Tiptronic shifter was integrated into the center console, and the instrument cluster featured clear and easy-to-read gauges.
Chassis & Braking
The B5 A4 featured a fully independent suspension system, with wishbones at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 2.4 V6 models generally had slightly thicker stabilizer bars compared to the base models, to help reduce body roll during cornering. Braking was handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort and stability, rather than outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.4 V6 Tiptronic A4 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its smooth engine, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some reviewers noted that the Tiptronic transmission could feel sluggish at times, and that the fuel economy wasn’t particularly impressive. Compared to the 1.8T models, the V6 offered a more premium feel and a more satisfying engine sound, but at a higher price point and with increased running costs. The 1.9 TDI diesel offered significantly better fuel economy, but lacked the refinement of the V6.
Legacy
The 2.4 V6 engine in the B5 A4 is generally considered to be a reliable unit, provided it receives regular maintenance. The Tiptronic transmission, however, can be a potential weak point, with some units experiencing issues with the torque converter or valve body. Today, these cars are becoming increasingly sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate their classic Audi styling and relatively simple mechanicals. Finding a well-maintained example is key, as neglected cars may require significant repairs. The 2.4 V6 Tiptronic A4 represents a sweet spot in the B5 A4 lineup, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and refinement that continues to appeal to drivers today.
