The Audi A4 (B9 8W) facelift 45 TDI quattro tiptronic, produced from February 2019 to May 2019, represents a mid-cycle update to the fifth generation of Audi’s popular executive sedan. This variant, positioned as a high-performance offering within the B9 lineup, combined a potent 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine with Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system and a smooth-shifting eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission. It aimed to deliver a blend of performance, efficiency, and luxury for discerning buyers in the European and other international markets where diesel engines remained popular. The facelift brought styling revisions, updated technology, and refined engine options to maintain the A4’s competitive edge in a crowded segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 (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 | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.6-6.8 l/100 km (35.6 – 34.6 US mpg, 42.8 – 41.5 UK mpg, 15.2 – 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4-4.6 l/100 km (53.5 – 51.1 US mpg, 64.2 – 61.4 UK mpg, 22.7 – 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2-5.4 l/100 km (45.2 – 43.6 US mpg, 54.3 – 52.3 UK mpg, 19.2 – 18.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 138-143 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.3 kg/Hp, 136.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 295.9 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 | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 965 l (34.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 12 l (3.17 US gal | 2.64 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 | 1428 mm (56.22 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 | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17; 245/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A4 B9.5 45 TDI quattro tiptronic, launched in 2019, was a key variant in Audi’s A4 range. It built upon the already successful B9 platform (introduced in 2015) with a significant facelift. This update included revised styling, enhanced technology, and improvements to the engine lineup. The “45 TDI” designation indicated a specific power output level within Audi’s naming convention, while “quattro” signified the presence of Audi’s all-wheel-drive system. The “tiptronic” label denoted the eight-speed automatic transmission. This particular combination aimed to provide a refined and capable driving experience, appealing to buyers seeking a balance of performance, efficiency, and all-weather capability.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 45 TDI was the DCPE engine, a 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged diesel engine. This engine was a member of Audi’s modular engine family, known for its robust construction and sophisticated technology. The DCPE featured a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine utilized a single turbocharger with an intercooler to increase air density and boost power output. The valvetrain employed a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to the engine’s broad torque curve. The eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission was a crucial component, offering smooth and quick gear changes. It featured a torque converter for smooth launches and a wide range of gear ratios to optimize both acceleration and fuel economy. The transmission was electronically controlled, adapting to driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The 45 TDI quattro tiptronic delivered a refined and confident driving experience. The 500 Nm (368.78 lb.-ft.) of torque, available from 1750-3250 rpm, provided strong acceleration in everyday driving situations. The quattro all-wheel-drive system ensured excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. While not as overtly sporty as some of the higher-performance A4 variants, the 45 TDI offered ample power for comfortable highway cruising and spirited driving. The tiptronic transmission contributed to a smooth and seamless driving experience, with minimal shift shock. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the tiptronic prioritized comfort and ease of use. Compared to the lower-powered 2.0 TDI models, the 3.0 TDI offered significantly more performance and refinement, justifying its higher price point.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 45 TDI quattro tiptronic typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a touchscreen display, leather upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a virtual cockpit (a fully digital instrument cluster), a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system, and adaptive cruise control. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally offered options for upgraded interior materials, exterior styling enhancements, and additional technology features.
Chassis & Braking
The A4 B9.5 featured a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilized a five-link independent setup, while the rear employed a multi-link configuration. This provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. The 45 TDI variant typically came with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system worked in conjunction with the quattro all-wheel-drive system to maintain stability and control in challenging driving conditions. Steering was via a speed-sensitive electric power steering system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A4 45 TDI quattro tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and sophisticated technology. Fuel economy was also a strong point, with combined figures ranging from 5.2 to 5.4 l/100 km. Compared to its rivals, such as the BMW 330d and Mercedes-Benz C300d, the A4 offered a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and technology. The 2.0 TDI models were more affordable but lacked the power and refinement of the 3.0 TDI. The higher-performance S4 offered even more exhilarating performance but came at a significantly higher price.
Legacy
The DCPE engine, while generally reliable, is known to require regular maintenance, particularly regarding the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and turbocharger. The eight-speed tiptronic transmission has also proven to be durable, but fluid changes are essential for long-term reliability. In the used car market, the A4 45 TDI quattro tiptronic remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a refined and capable executive sedan. Its combination of performance, efficiency, and all-wheel-drive capability continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with a diesel engine and ensure that the vehicle has been properly serviced.
