The Audi A6 Avant (C8, facelift) 45 TFSI Mild Hybrid S tronic, produced from June 2023 to March 2025, represents a refined iteration of Audi’s popular executive wagon. This variant slots into the mid-range of the C8 A6 Avant lineup, offering a balance between performance, efficiency, and technology. It builds upon the foundation of the C8 platform (shared with the A7 Sportback) and benefits from the mid-cycle refresh, incorporating updated styling, enhanced technology, and a more sophisticated powertrain. The “45 TFSI” designation signifies a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 265 horsepower, coupled with a 48-volt mild hybrid system and a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A6 |
| Generation | A6 Avant (C8, facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | 45 TFSI (265 Hp) Mild Hybrid S tronic |
| Start of production | June, 2023 |
| End of production | March, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 7.2-8.2 l/100 km (32.7 – 28.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 164-187 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 0.15 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 12 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Recuperation output | 6 kW |
| Electric motor power | 3 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 60 Nm (44.25 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 265 Hp @ 5250-6500 rpm |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 1600-4500 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 1600-4500 rpm) |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.7 l (9.19 US qt | 7.65 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1710 kg (3769.9 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2320 kg (5114.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 565 l (19.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1680 l (59.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Length | 4939 mm (194.45 in.) |
| Width | 1886 mm (74.25 in.) |
| Height | 1494 mm (58.82 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2924 mm (115.12 in.) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission S tronic |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A6 Avant 45 TFSI lies the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. This engine is a staple in the Volkswagen Group’s portfolio, known for its responsiveness and efficiency. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger, delivering a broad torque curve. The mild hybrid system, a 48V setup, incorporates a belt starter generator (BSG) and a small lithium-ion battery. This system allows for extended engine-off coasting, regenerative braking, and a smoother start-stop function, contributing to improved fuel economy. The seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission provides rapid and seamless gear changes, enhancing both performance and driving comfort. This transmission is known for its efficiency and responsiveness compared to traditional torque-converter automatics.
Driving Characteristics
The 265 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque provide brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.6 seconds. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-output variants (like the S6), the 45 TFSI offers ample power for everyday driving and highway overtaking. The S tronic transmission contributes to a smooth and engaging driving experience. The mild hybrid system is largely transparent to the driver, but it subtly enhances efficiency and refinement. Compared to the manual transmission options available in some markets, the S tronic prioritizes convenience and ease of use, making it well-suited for urban commuting and long-distance journeys. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides good traction in most conditions, although all-wheel drive (quattro) was available as an option.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A6 Avant 45 TFSI typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a premium sound system, adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, and various interior trim upgrades. The specific trim levels varied by market, but generally, the 45 TFSI sat in the middle of the A6 Avant range, offering a good balance of features and price.
Chassis & Braking
The A6 Avant features a sophisticated chassis design with independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good handling characteristics. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering a connected feel to the road. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The size of the front discs is 338mm and the rear discs are 330mm. ABS (Anti-lock braking system) is standard, ensuring safe and controlled stopping power. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort and refinement, making it a pleasant vehicle for long journeys.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A6 Avant 45 TFSI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, smooth transmission, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. Fuel economy was considered competitive for its class, and the mild hybrid system was seen as a positive step towards greater efficiency. Compared to the more powerful A6 variants, the 45 TFSI offered a more affordable entry point into the A6 Avant range. It also provided a more balanced driving experience, prioritizing comfort and refinement over outright performance. Against competitors like the BMW 5 Series Touring and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate, the A6 Avant 45 TFSI held its own, offering a compelling combination of features, performance, and value.
Legacy
The EA888 engine, in its various iterations, has proven to be a reliable and durable powerplant. The mild hybrid system, while relatively new, has also demonstrated good long-term reliability. The S tronic transmission is generally robust, but regular maintenance (fluid changes) is crucial to ensure its longevity. In the used car market, the A6 Avant 45 TFSI represents a good value proposition, offering a well-equipped and refined executive wagon at a reasonable price. Its combination of performance, efficiency, and technology makes it a desirable choice for buyers seeking a practical and comfortable vehicle.
