The Audi A6 Sedan (4G, C7 facelift) 3.0 TDI 218 hp S tronic represents a refinement of the fourth-generation A6, produced from 2016 to 2018. This variant occupied a strong mid-range position within the A6 lineup, offering a balance of performance, efficiency, and luxury. It was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a sophisticated executive sedan with the added convenience of an automatic transmission and the fuel economy benefits of a diesel engine. The C7 facelift brought updated styling, improved technology, and enhanced efficiency compared to the pre-facelift models, solidifying the A6’s position as a competitive offering in the premium mid-size segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A6 |
| Generation | A6 Sedan (4G, C7 facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI (218 Hp) S tronic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8-4.9 l/100 km (49 – 48 US mpg, 58.9 – 57.6 UK mpg, 20.8 – 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2-4.3 l/100 km (56 – 54.7 US mpg, 67.3 – 65.7 UK mpg, 23.8 – 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4-4.5 l/100 km (53.5 – 52.3 US mpg, 64.2 – 62.8 UK mpg, 22.7 – 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 114-119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 245 km/h (152.24 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 128.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 236 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 218 Hp @ 4000-5000 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1250-3750 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1250-3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CZVA, CZVB |
| 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 | 16:1 |
| 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) |
| Coolant | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1695 kg (3736.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2275 kg (5015.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 995 l (35.14 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 73 l (19.28 US gal | 16.06 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 85 kg (187.39 lbs.) |
| Length | 4932 mm (194.17 in.) |
| Width | 1874 mm (73.78 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2086 mm (82.13 in.) |
| Height | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2912 mm (114.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1627 mm (64.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1618 mm (63.7 in.) |
| Front overhang | 925 mm (36.42 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1095 mm (43.11 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission S tronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| 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 | 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A6 Sedan (4G, C7 facelift) 3.0 TDI 218 hp S tronic, produced between 2016 and 2018, represents a significant iteration of Audi’s popular executive sedan. Built on the 4G platform (also known as the C7), the facelift brought a refreshed exterior design, upgraded interior materials, and advancements in infotainment and driver-assistance systems. This particular variant, powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine paired with Audi’s seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, aimed to deliver a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and refinement. It positioned itself as a sweet spot in the A6 range, appealing to drivers who desired more power than the entry-level 2.0 TDI models but didn’t require the outright performance of the S6 or RS6.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A6 3.0 TDI lies the CZVA or CZVB engine code, a 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chambers at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine features a sophisticated turbocharger and intercooler setup to boost power and efficiency. The valvetrain employs double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, contributing to efficient gas exchange. The S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is a key component, offering incredibly fast and smooth gear changes. Unlike a traditional automatic transmission with a torque converter, the S tronic uses two separate clutches – one for odd-numbered gears and one for even-numbered gears – allowing for pre-selection of the next gear and virtually seamless shifts. This contributes to both improved acceleration and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 218 hp and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 3.0 TDI engine, combined with the quick-shifting S tronic transmission, provide a responsive and enjoyable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its competitors, the A6 3.0 TDI delivers ample power for effortless highway cruising and confident overtaking. The S tronic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the S tronic offers a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban traffic. Against the higher-output 3.0 TDI variants (often exceeding 270 hp), this 218 hp version feels slightly less urgent in its acceleration, but the difference is often negligible in everyday driving. The front-wheel drive configuration provides good traction in most conditions, although it can exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A6 3.0 TDI S tronic typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a central display screen. Standard safety equipment included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras were plentiful, including a navigation system, a premium sound system (often Bang & Olufsen), adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior trim options varied, with choices in wood, aluminum, or carbon fiber accents. The specific trim level (e.g., Premium, Premium Plus) determined the level of standard equipment and the availability of certain options.
Chassis & Braking
The A6 3.0 TDI utilizes an independent multi-link suspension at the front and an independent trapezoidal lever suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort, but still offers good handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A6 3.0 TDI S tronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, smooth transmission, comfortable ride, and high-quality interior. Fuel economy was also a strong point, with the diesel engine delivering impressive mileage for a vehicle of its size and performance. Compared to its rivals, such as the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the A6 was often seen as offering a slightly more understated and technologically advanced experience. The 2.0 TDI models offered better fuel economy but lacked the power and refinement of the 3.0 TDI. The higher-output 3.0 TDI variants provided more performance but came at a higher price point.
Legacy
The 3.0 TDI engine, in various iterations, proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While diesel engines, in general, have faced increased scrutiny regarding emissions, the CZVA/CZVB engines are generally considered robust. The S tronic transmission, when properly maintained, is also known for its longevity. In the used car market, the A6 3.0 TDI S tronic remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable, efficient, and well-equipped executive sedan. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and transmission servicing, is crucial to ensure the continued reliability of this powertrain.
