The Audi A4 (B8 8K) 3.0 TDI V6 quattro Tiptronic represents a compelling blend of performance and refinement within the broader B8 A4 lineup, produced between May 2007 and 2011. Positioned as a premium offering, this variant catered to buyers seeking strong acceleration, all-weather capability, and the convenience of an automatic transmission. It occupied the upper echelon of the B8 range, sitting above the 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TDI models, and below the even more potent S4. The B8 generation A4, built on the Volkswagen Group’s B8 (or A4/A5 PL46 platform), aimed to improve upon its predecessor with enhanced interior quality, more sophisticated technology, and a more engaging driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 (B8 8K) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI V6 (240 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | May, 2007 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg, 32.1 UK mpg, 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 182 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| 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 | 7 kg/Hp, 142 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 295.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 240 Hp @ 4000-4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA896 / CCWA |
| 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 | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2240 kg (4938.35 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 962 l (33.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4703 mm (185.16 in.) |
| Width | 1826 mm (71.89 in.) |
| Height | 1427 mm (56.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2808 mm (110.55 in.) |
| Front track | 1564 mm (61.57 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.286 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| 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 | 225/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A4 (B8) 3.0 TDI quattro Tiptronic, produced from 2007 to 2011, was a significant offering in the European market, and increasingly found its way to North America as a grey market import. It represented a premium choice for those desiring a sporty, comfortable, and capable sedan. The “3.0 TDI” designation indicates the engine, a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V6, while “quattro” signifies Audi’s renowned all-wheel-drive system. “Tiptronic” denotes the six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability. This combination aimed to deliver a refined driving experience with strong performance and all-weather traction.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A4 3.0 TDI lies the EA896 engine family, specifically the CCWA code. This 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine boasts four valves per cylinder, operated by a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. A variable geometry turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides ample boost across a wide RPM range. The engine produces 240 horsepower at 4000-4400 rpm and a substantial 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque between 1500-3000 rpm. The six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, a torque converter type, provides smooth and relatively quick shifts. It allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector itself.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 TDI quattro Tiptronic offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its lower-powered siblings. The abundant torque from the diesel V6 provided effortless acceleration in everyday driving situations. While not as overtly sporty as the A4 equipped with the 2.0 TFSI and a manual transmission, the 3.0 TDI delivered a more relaxed and refined experience. The Tiptronic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t as quick-shifting as a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) found in some competitors. However, the manual shift mode allowed drivers to maintain more control over gear selection. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in all conditions, enhancing stability and confidence, particularly in inclement weather. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, prioritizing mid-range punch over outright top-end speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A4 3.0 TDI quattro Tiptronic typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium model. Standard features often included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and an Audi Concert audio system. Optional extras were plentiful, including navigation, sunroof, heated seats, parking sensors, and upgraded alloy wheels. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together. Interior materials were of high quality, with a focus on creating a comfortable and luxurious cabin environment.
Chassis & Braking
The B8 A4 featured a sophisticated suspension setup designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension utilized an independent multi-link design, while the rear employed an independent multi-link spring suspension with a stabilizer bar. This configuration provided a compliant ride while minimizing body roll during cornering. The 3.0 TDI models typically featured larger brakes than the base A4 variants, with ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering was a rack and pinion system with electric power assistance, providing precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A4 3.0 TDI quattro Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and all-weather capability. Compared to the 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TDI models, the 3.0 TDI offered significantly more performance and refinement. However, it came at a higher price point. Fuel economy was respectable for a vehicle of its size and performance, averaging around 34.1 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues could occur with infrequent long-distance driving. Compared to rivals like the BMW 330d and Mercedes-Benz C300 CDI, the A4 3.0 TDI offered a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and technology.
Legacy
The Audi A4 (B8) 3.0 TDI quattro Tiptronic has proven to be a durable and reliable vehicle in the used car market. The EA896 engine, while requiring regular maintenance, is known for its longevity. The Tiptronic transmission, if properly maintained, can provide years of trouble-free operation. However, potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of DPF issues and the need for regular servicing. Today, these A4s represent a good value for those seeking a comfortable, capable, and relatively fuel-efficient luxury sedan. The combination of a powerful diesel engine, all-wheel drive, and a well-appointed interior continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
