The Audi A4 (B8 8K) 3.2 FSI V6 quattro tiptronic represents a high-performance variant of the fourth-generation A4, produced between 2007 and 2011. Positioned as a premium offering within the B8 lineup, it combined a naturally aspirated 3.2-liter V6 engine with Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system and a six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission. This configuration aimed to deliver a blend of spirited performance and refined comfort, appealing to buyers seeking a more engaging driving experience than the base four-cylinder models, but without the more focused sportiness of the S4.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 (B8 8K) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.2 FSI V6 (265 Hp) quattro tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13 l/100 km (18.1 US mpg, 21.7 UK mpg, 7.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 215 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.1 kg/Hp, 164.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 205 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 265 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 330 Nm @ 3000-5000 rpm (243.4 lb.-ft. @ 3000-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA390 / CALA |
| Engine displacement | 3197 cm3 (195.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 85.5 mm (3.37 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1610 kg (3549.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2160 kg (4761.98 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 962 l (33.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4703 mm (185.16 in.) |
| Width | 1826 mm (71.89 in.) |
| Height | 1427 mm (56.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2808 mm (110.55 in.) |
| Front track | 1564 mm (61.57 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.286 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| 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 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A4 3.2 FSI quattro tiptronic lies the EA390 engine family, specifically the CALA engine code. This 3.2-liter, naturally aspirated V6 engine utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI – Fuel Stratified Injection) to enhance efficiency and power output. The engine boasts a 12.5:1 compression ratio and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration allows for excellent breathing and contributes to the engine’s responsive nature. The tiptronic transmission is a six-speed automatic with a torque converter, offering both fully automatic operation and the ability for the driver to manually select gears. This transmission is designed to handle the engine’s 330 Nm (243.4 lb-ft) of torque, delivered between 3000 and 5000 rpm.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.2 FSI engine, paired with the tiptronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, delivers a noticeably different driving experience compared to the base 1.8T or 2.0T models. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6.1 seconds, and the car feels confident and stable at highway speeds. The tiptronic transmission provides smooth shifts in automatic mode, but can feel slightly less responsive than a dual-clutch transmission. The quattro system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing cornering stability and providing a secure feel. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 3.2 FSI, the tiptronic offers greater convenience, but sacrifices some driver engagement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.2 FSI quattro tiptronic typically came well-equipped, often including features like leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and power-adjustable front seats. Optional extras included navigation, sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems. The interior design was typically characterized by Audi’s high-quality materials and attention to detail. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, this variant represented a step up from the base A4 models in terms of luxury and features.
Chassis & Braking
The A4 B8 featured an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 3.2 FSI models often received slightly stiffer suspension components compared to the base models to better manage the increased power and weight. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A4 3.2 FSI quattro tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its smooth engine, comfortable ride, and all-weather capability. However, some reviewers noted that the tiptronic transmission could feel a bit dated compared to newer automatic transmissions. Fuel economy was a common criticism, as the 3.2-liter V6 consumed significantly more fuel than the turbocharged four-cylinder engines. Compared to the 2.0T quattro models, the 3.2 FSI offered more power and a more refined driving experience, but at a higher price point and with increased running costs.
Legacy
The EA390 3.2 FSI engine, while generally reliable, is known to require regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing chain inspections. The tiptronic transmission is also a potential area for maintenance, particularly as the vehicles age. Today, the A4 3.2 FSI quattro tiptronic represents a compelling option for buyers seeking a comfortable and capable luxury sedan with a naturally aspirated V6 engine. While not as fuel-efficient as newer models, it offers a unique driving experience and a level of refinement that is still appreciated by enthusiasts. The quattro all-wheel-drive system continues to be a valuable asset, particularly in regions with inclement weather.
