The Audi A8 L (D4, 4H facelift) 3.0 TDI, produced from 2013 to 2015, represents a significant iteration of Audi’s flagship luxury sedan. This variant, powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V6 engine producing 258 horsepower, occupied a crucial middle ground in the A8 lineup, offering a balance of performance, efficiency, and refinement. Positioned between the entry-level 3.0-liter gasoline engine and the more potent 4.0-liter TDI, the 3.0 TDI quattro Tiptronic catered to buyers seeking a sophisticated and capable grand tourer with a focus on fuel economy. The “L” designation signifies the long-wheelbase version, prioritizing rear passenger comfort and space. This model was primarily aimed at the European and Asian markets, where diesel engines enjoy greater popularity due to favorable taxation and fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A8 |
| Generation | A8L (D4,4H facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI V6 clean diesel (258 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 158 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 133.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 299.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 258 Hp @ 4000-4250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87 Hp/l |
| Torque | 580 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (427.79 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CTBA |
| 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) |
| Coolant | 12.9 l (13.63 US qt | 11.35 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1935 kg (4265.94 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2585 kg (5698.95 lbs.) |
| Max load | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 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 | 5265 mm (207.28 in.) |
| Width | 1949 mm (76.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2111 mm (83.11 in.) |
| Height | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3122 mm (122.91 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) | 12.7 m (41.67 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A8 L 3.0 TDI is the CTBA engine, a 3.0-liter V6 diesel. This engine 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. Audi’s engineers implemented an intercooler to cool the compressed intake air, further increasing efficiency. The engine produces 580 Nm (427.79 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm, providing strong acceleration in real-world driving conditions. Paired with this engine is an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. This transmission offers smooth and quick shifts, and allows the driver to manually select gears when desired. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between all four wheels, providing excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 TDI automatic A8 L delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-powered variants, the 258 hp and 580 Nm of torque provide ample power for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. The eight-speed Tiptronic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth gear changes and contributing to the car’s overall refinement. The quattro all-wheel-drive system inspires confidence, particularly on slippery surfaces. Compared to the 4.0 TDI, the 3.0 TDI feels less urgent in its acceleration, but the difference is often negligible in everyday driving. The automatic transmission, while smooth, can sometimes feel a bit hesitant when downshifting for quick bursts of acceleration compared to a manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A8 L 3.0 TDI typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a multi-function steering wheel, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. The long-wheelbase configuration provided generous rear legroom, enhancing passenger comfort. Optional extras included adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, massaging front seats, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Trim levels varied slightly by market, but generally offered options for upgraded interior materials, exterior styling enhancements, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The A8 L features an independent suspension system on all four wheels, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The front suspension utilizes a multi-link design, while the rear employs a trapezoidal link setup. The car is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is electrically assisted, offering precise and responsive handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A8 L 3.0 TDI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined ride, comfortable interior, and fuel efficiency. Compared to the gasoline-powered A8 models, the 3.0 TDI offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for drivers who cover long distances. Against the 4.0 TDI, it represented a more affordable option, albeit with slightly less performance. Reliability reports suggest that the 3.0 TDI engine is generally robust, although regular maintenance is crucial to prevent issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and turbocharger.
Legacy
The Audi A8 L 3.0 TDI (D4, 4H facelift) remains a desirable used luxury car. Its combination of comfort, refinement, and fuel efficiency continues to appeal to buyers seeking a high-end sedan. The 3.0 TDI engine, while requiring diligent maintenance, has proven to be relatively reliable over the long term. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential costs associated with repairing or replacing components such as the DPF and turbocharger. The A8 L 3.0 TDI represents a sweet spot in the D4 generation, offering a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and practicality.
