The Audi A8 (D4, 4H facelift) 3.0 TDI V6 quattro Tiptronic represents a significant iteration of Audi’s flagship luxury sedan, produced from 2015 to 2017. This variant, part of the D4 generation’s mid-cycle refresh, aimed to balance performance, efficiency, and refinement within the A8 lineup. It occupied a middle ground, offering a compelling alternative to both the entry-level 3.0-liter gasoline engine and the higher-performance 4.0-liter TDI. The facelift brought updated styling, enhanced technology, and improvements to the already sophisticated A8 platform, solidifying its position as a competitor to the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A8 |
| Generation | A8 (D4,4H facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI V6 (262 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2015 year |
| End of production | 2017 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 151 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 139.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 308.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 262 Hp @ 4000-4250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 88.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 580 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (427.79 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CTBD |
| 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2570 kg (5665.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 690 kg (1521.19 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 490 l (17.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal | 18.04 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 95 kg (209.44 lbs.) |
| Length | 5135 mm (202.17 in.) |
| Width | 1949 mm (76.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2111 mm (83.11 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2992 mm (117.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1644 mm (64.72 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1000 mm (39.37 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1143 mm (45 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.3 m (40.35 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| 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 |
| Tires size | 235/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A8 3.0 TDI quattro Tiptronic is the CTBD engine, a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel. This engine is a member of Audi’s modular engine family, known for its robust construction and advanced technology. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine features a single turbocharger with variable geometry turbine (VGT) technology, enhancing both low-end torque and high-end power. The V6 configuration provides a good balance between smoothness and efficiency. The engine produces 262 horsepower at 4000-4250 rpm and a substantial 580 Nm (427.79 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The Tiptronic 8-speed automatic transmission is a crucial component, offering smooth and responsive gear changes. It allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 TDI with the Tiptronic transmission delivers a refined and effortless driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its competitors or the higher-powered A8 variants, it provides ample power for comfortable cruising and confident overtaking. The 8-speed transmission is well-tuned, providing quick shifts and keeping the engine in its optimal power band. The quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction in all weather conditions. Compared to the 3.0-liter gasoline version, the TDI offers significantly more torque, resulting in stronger acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. The Tiptronic transmission, while smooth, doesn’t offer the same level of engagement as a manual gearbox or a dual-clutch transmission. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising, rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A8 3.0 TDI quattro Tiptronic typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The infotainment system featured a large central display screen with Audi’s MMI interface. Optional extras included features like massaging seats, a head-up display, a night vision assistant, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Trim levels varied slightly by market, but generally, the 3.0 TDI sat in the mid-range of the A8 lineup, offering a balance of luxury and performance without the higher price tag of the 4.0 TDI or the S8.
Chassis & Braking
The A8 (D4) utilizes an aluminum-intensive chassis construction, contributing to its relatively low weight. The suspension system features independent multi-link suspension at all four corners, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The 3.0 TDI variant typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) are standard safety features. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over aggressive handling. Stabilizer bars help to minimize body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A8 3.0 TDI quattro Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. The fuel economy was a significant selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel engines are more popular. Compared to the gasoline-powered A8, the TDI offered superior fuel efficiency and torque. However, some critics noted that the Tiptronic transmission wasn’t as engaging as other options, and the overall driving experience wasn’t as sporty as some of its rivals. Reliability was generally good, although diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues could occur with infrequent long-distance driving.
Legacy
The Audi A8 (D4) 3.0 TDI V6 quattro Tiptronic remains a desirable used luxury car. The CTBD engine is known for its durability, provided it has been properly maintained. The availability of parts is generally good, and maintenance costs are reasonable for a vehicle of this class. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and the cost of maintaining the complex electronic systems. The A8 D4 represents a high point in Audi’s luxury sedan development, offering a compelling combination of technology, comfort, and refinement.
