The Audi A4 (B9 8W) facelift, specifically the 50 TDI V6 quattro Tiptronic model produced from October 2019 to June 2020, represents a sophisticated blend of performance and efficiency within the A4 lineup. This variant occupied the upper-mid range of the B9 generation, positioned below the more performance-oriented S4 but above the lower-powered 2.0-liter TDI and TFSI models. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where diesel engines remained popular, offering a compelling alternative for drivers seeking strong torque and respectable fuel economy in a premium executive sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 (B9 8W, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 50 TDI V6 (286 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | October, 2019 |
| End of production | June, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.8-7.1 l/100 km (34.6 – 33.1 US mpg, 41.5 – 39.8 UK mpg, 14.7 – 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9-5.3 l/100 km (48 – 44.4 US mpg, 57.6 – 53.3 UK mpg, 20.4 – 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6-6.0 l/100 km (42 – 39.2 US mpg, 50.4 – 47.1 UK mpg, 17.9 – 16.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 148-157 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP – EVAP – ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp, 169.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 366.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 286 Hp @ 3500-4000 rpm |
| Torque | 620 Nm @ 2250-3000 rpm (457.29 lb.-ft. @ 2250-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DCPC |
| Engine displacement | 2967 cm3 (181.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 15.2 l (16.06 US qt | 13.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2295 kg (5059.61 lbs.) |
| Max load | 605 kg (1333.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 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%) | 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 | 4762 mm (187.48 in.) |
| Width | 1847 mm (72.72 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 | 899 mm (35.39 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1043 mm (41.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). Internal Combustion engine. |
| 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 |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5 J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A4 50 TDI V6 quattro lies the DCPC engine, a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel. This engine is a member of Audi’s modular engine family, utilizing a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It employs a sophisticated common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at pressures up to 2,500 bar for optimized combustion. The engine also features a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The V6 configuration inherently provides smooth power delivery and reduced vibrations compared to inline engines. The eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, a staple in Audi’s lineup, is paired with the engine. This transmission offers both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. The Tiptronic transmission is known for its smooth and quick shifts, contributing to both performance and comfort.
Driving Characteristics
The 50 TDI V6 quattro delivers a refined and capable driving experience. The 620 Nm (457.29 lb-ft) of torque, available from a low 2250 rpm, provides strong acceleration in virtually any gear. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 4.9 seconds, making it a genuinely quick sedan. The quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Compared to the 2.0-liter TDI variants, the V6 offers significantly more power and a more relaxed driving experience, especially during highway cruising and overtaking maneuvers. While the 2.0-liter TFSI models might offer slightly sharper handling due to their lighter weight, the V6’s superior torque and all-wheel drive provide a more confident and stable feel. The Tiptronic transmission, while generally smooth, can sometimes feel less responsive than a dual-clutch transmission, particularly in aggressive driving situations.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A4 50 TDI V6 quattro typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster, a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with MMI navigation plus, three-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, and LED headlights. Optional extras included a Bang & Olufsen sound system, a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, and various driver assistance systems such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, the 50 TDI V6 was positioned as a premium offering, often bundled with the ‘S line’ package which added sportier styling cues and upgraded interior trim.
Chassis & Braking
The A4 B9 utilizes a sophisticated chassis design featuring independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear axles. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The 50 TDI V6 models typically featured slightly stiffer springs and dampers compared to the lower-powered variants to cope with the increased weight and power. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system is integrated with the quattro all-wheel-drive system to enhance stability and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A4 50 TDI V6 quattro was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, refined ride, and luxurious interior. Fuel economy was also considered respectable for a vehicle of its performance, averaging around 42-39.2 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to rivals such as the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the A4 offered a compelling combination of performance, technology, and value. However, some critics noted that the infotainment system could be complex to use and that the ride, while comfortable, wasn’t quite as plush as some of its competitors.
Legacy
The 3.0-liter TDI V6 engine, in various iterations, has proven to be a durable and reliable powertrain. However, like all modern diesel engines, it’s susceptible to issues related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and emissions control systems, particularly if not properly maintained or subjected to frequent short trips. In the used car market, the A4 50 TDI V6 quattro holds its value relatively well due to its strong performance and desirable features. It remains a popular choice for drivers seeking a premium executive sedan with a blend of power, efficiency, and all-weather capability.
