The Audi A6 Sedan (4G, C7) 3.0 TFSI V6 quattro S tronic represents a high-performance variant within the fourth generation (C7) of Audi’s flagship executive sedan. Produced from 2011 to May 2012, this model combined a potent supercharged V6 engine with Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system and a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. It occupied a premium position in the A6 lineup, offering a significant step up in performance and technology compared to the base 2.0 TFSI models and even the diesel variants. The C7 generation A6, built on the Volkswagen Group’s MLB platform (shared with models like the Porsche Panamera), aimed to blend luxury, technology, and driving dynamics in a sophisticated package.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A6 |
| Generation | A6 Sedan (4G, C7) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TFSI V6 (300 Hp) quattro S tronic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | May, 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg, 26.2 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 190 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp, 172.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 252.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 300 Hp @ 5250-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 2900-4500 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 2900-4500 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CGWB |
| 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 | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1740 kg (3836.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2350 kg (5180.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 995 l (35.14 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 85 kg (187.39 lbs.) |
| Length | 4915 mm (193.5 in.) |
| Width | 1874 mm (73.78 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2086 mm (82.13 in.) |
| Height | 1468 mm (57.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2912 mm (114.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1627 mm (64.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1618 mm (63.7 in.) |
| Front overhang | 912 mm (35.91 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1091 mm (42.95 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 | Disc |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A6 3.0 TFSI quattro S tronic is the CGWB engine, a 2,995 cc naturally aspirated V6. This engine utilizes a mechanically driven supercharger (Roots-type) in conjunction with direct fuel injection (FSI) and an intercooler. The supercharger provides instant boost at low engine speeds, eliminating turbo lag and delivering a linear power curve. The direct injection system precisely meters fuel into the combustion chambers, improving efficiency and reducing emissions. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission offers incredibly fast and smooth gear changes, contributing to the car’s overall performance. This transmission allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Driving Characteristics
The 300 horsepower and 324.53 lb-ft of torque, combined with the quattro all-wheel-drive system, resulted in brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint was achieved in approximately 5.2 seconds, and the car felt confident and stable at highway speeds. The S tronic transmission’s quick shifts and well-chosen gear ratios kept the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI models, the 3.0 TFSI offered a significantly more refined and powerful driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the S6 variant, the 3.0 TFSI provided a compelling balance of performance and comfort. The all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing safety and stability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A6 3.0 TFSI quattro S tronic typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and Audi’s Multi Media Interface (MMI) infotainment system with a central display screen. Optional extras included navigation, adaptive cruise control, a panoramic sunroof, and various driver-assistance systems. The interior design was characterized by high-quality materials and a clean, modern aesthetic. Trim levels varied slightly by market, but generally, this engine was offered in higher-specification trims, emphasizing luxury and technology.
Chassis & Braking
The C7 A6 featured an independent multi-link suspension at the front and an independent trapezoidal link suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributed power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The suspension was tuned to provide a balance between comfort and handling, making the car suitable for both long-distance cruising and spirited driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A6 3.0 TFSI quattro S tronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, smooth transmission, comfortable ride, and sophisticated interior. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for a vehicle of its size and performance, averaging around 28.7 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI models, the 3.0 TFSI offered a substantial performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The diesel variants (such as the 3.0 TDI) offered comparable fuel economy but with a different driving character. The 3.0 TFSI appealed to buyers who prioritized performance and refinement over ultimate fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The CGWB engine, while not without its maintenance considerations (particularly regarding the supercharger and timing chain), proved to be a relatively reliable powerplant when properly maintained. The S tronic transmission is known for its durability, but regular fluid changes are crucial. Today, the A6 3.0 TFSI (4G, C7) represents a compelling value on the used car market, offering a luxurious and capable sedan at a more affordable price point. Its combination of performance, technology, and all-wheel-drive capability continues to appeal to discerning buyers seeking a premium driving experience.
