The Audi A8 (D5) 55 TFSI V6, produced from 2017 to 2019, represents a significant iteration of Audi’s flagship luxury sedan. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the fourth generation (D5) A8 lineup, it bridged the gap between the entry-level 50 TFSI and the high-performance 60 TFSI variants. This model combined a potent 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive, paired exclusively with an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission. The D5 A8 aimed to redefine luxury and technology, introducing features like a touchscreen-centric infotainment system and advanced driver-assistance systems. It competed directly with the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and cutting-edge innovation.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A8 |
| Generation | A8 (D5) |
| Type (Engine) | 55 TFSI V6 (340 Hp) Mild Hybrid quattro tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.1-10.3 l/100 km (23.3 – 22.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.0-6.4 l/100 km (39.2 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5-7.8 l/100 km (31.4 – 30.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 171-178 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm |
| Net battery capacity | 0.5 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery weight | 10 kg (22.05 lbs) |
| Battery location | Under the trunk |
| Recuperation output | 14 kW |
| Electric motor power | 8 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 60 Nm (44.25 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Front, Longitudinal |
| Power | 340 Hp @ 5000-6400 rpm |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1370-4500 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1370-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA839 / CZSE |
| Engine displacement | 2995 cm3 (182.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2680 kg (5908.39 lbs) |
| Max load | 760 kg (1675.51 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 505 l (17.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72 l (19.02 US gal | 15.84 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs) |
| Permitted towbar download | 95 kg (209.44 lbs) |
| Length | 5172 mm (203.62 in.) |
| Width | 1945 mm (76.57 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2130 mm (83.86 in.) |
| Height | 1473 mm (57.99 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2998 mm (118.03 in.) |
| Front track | 1644 mm (64.72 in.) |
| Rear track | 1633 mm (64.29 in.) |
| Front overhang | 989 mm (38.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1185 mm (46.65 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.5 m (41.01 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission tiptronic |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A8 D5 55 TFSI V6, launched in 2017, represented a significant step forward in luxury sedan technology. Built on the modular longitudinal platform (MLB evo), shared with other Volkswagen Group vehicles like the Porsche Panamera and Bentley Continental GT, the D5 A8 aimed to blend opulent comfort with advanced performance. The “55 TFSI” designation indicated the engine’s power output according to Audi’s naming convention, translating to approximately 340 horsepower. This variant occupied a crucial position in the A8 lineup, offering a compelling balance between performance and efficiency for buyers who didn’t require the outright power of the 60 TFSI or the diesel economy of the 50 TDI.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A8 55 TFSI lies the EA839 3.0-liter V6 engine, a direct-injection, twin-scroll turbocharged powerplant. This engine, coded CZSE, produces 340 horsepower at 5000-6400 rpm and 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque between 1370 and 4500 rpm. The engine benefits from Audi’s Valvelift system, which allows for variable valve lift on both the intake and exhaust sides, optimizing performance and efficiency. The mild-hybrid system, operating at 48 volts, incorporates a belt-driven starter generator (BSG) and a small lithium-ion battery. This system enables features like extended engine-off coasting, smoother start-stop operation, and a slight power boost during acceleration. The eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission, a staple of Audi’s performance models, provides smooth and responsive gear changes. It features a torque converter for smooth low-speed operation and a tight lock-up clutch for efficient cruising. The transmission is specifically tuned to work in harmony with the engine’s torque curve and the quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Driving Characteristics
The A8 55 TFSI delivers a refined and composed driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its rivals, it offers ample power for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 5.3 seconds, and the electronically limited top speed of 155 mph is easily achievable. The eight-speed tiptronic transmission is well-matched to the engine, providing seamless gear changes and keeping the engine within its optimal power band. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and control. The air suspension, standard on this model, further contributes to the comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. Compared to the more powerful 60 TFSI, the 55 TFSI feels slightly less urgent in its acceleration, but it offers a more relaxed and fuel-efficient driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A8 55 TFSI came generously equipped as standard. Key features included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats with massage function, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and Audi’s MMI touch response infotainment system with dual touchscreens. Optional extras included a head-up display, a rear-seat entertainment system, and various driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to aluminum accents, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their taste. The A8’s interior was designed to be a sanctuary of comfort and technology, with meticulous attention to detail and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The A8 D5 utilizes an advanced chassis design featuring an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, coupled with Audi’s adaptive air suspension system. This system allows for adjustable ride height and damping characteristics, providing a customizable driving experience. The A8 55 TFSI is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control are standard features, enhancing safety and control. The steering is a power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A8 D5 55 TFSI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its luxurious interior, advanced technology, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the infotainment system could be distracting, and the car lacked the outright sporting character of some of its rivals. Compared to the A8 60 TFSI, the 55 TFSI offered a more affordable entry point into the A8 range, with slightly better fuel economy. Against competitors like the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the A8 55 TFSI offered a compelling blend of features and performance, often at a competitive price point.
Legacy
The Audi A8 D5 55 TFSI represents a pivotal moment in Audi’s history, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovation and luxury. The EA839 engine, while not without its occasional issues (such as potential oil consumption in some early models), has proven to be generally reliable. The mild-hybrid system, while relatively simple, laid the groundwork for Audi’s future electrification efforts. On the used car market, the D5 A8 55 TFSI remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a luxurious and technologically advanced sedan. Maintenance costs can be higher than some competitors due to the complexity of the vehicle’s systems, but the A8’s overall build quality and refinement continue to appeal to discerning buyers.
