The Audi A5 Sportback 3.0 TDI quattro S tronic, produced from 2011 to 2015, represents a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and luxury within the Audi A5 range. This variant, part of the B8.5 (facelift) generation (internally designated 8TA), occupied a premium position in the Sportback lineup, offering a significant step up in power and refinement compared to lower-spec engines. The Sportback body style, a five-door fastback, aimed to combine the sleek lines of a coupe with the usability of a sedan, appealing to buyers seeking a more versatile grand tourer. This particular configuration – the 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel paired with Audi’s S tronic dual-clutch transmission and quattro all-wheel drive – was a popular choice in European markets, where diesel engines held a substantial market share.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Sportback (8TA, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI V6 (245 Hp) quattro S tronic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Fastback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.3-7.5 l/100 km (32.2 – 31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4-5.7 l/100 km (43.6 – 41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1-6.3 l/100 km (38.6 – 37.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 159-164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 4000-4500 rpm |
| Torque | 580 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (427.79 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CDUC, CKVB, CKVC |
| 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 980 l (34.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 20.5 l (5.42 US gal | 4.51 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 | 4712 mm (185.51 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2020 mm (79.53 in.) |
| Height | 1391 mm (54.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2810 mm (110.63 in.) |
| Front track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Front overhang | 861 mm (33.9 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1041 mm (40.98 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Type of gearbox | 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 | 225/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A5 Sportback 3.0 TDI quattro lies the CDUC, CKVB, or CKVC engine code, a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel. This engine is a member of the Volkswagen Group’s modular engine family, known for its robust construction and sophisticated technology. It features a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine utilizes a single turbocharger with variable geometry turbine (VGT) technology, enhancing responsiveness and broadening the torque curve. The valvetrain employs double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, contributing to efficient gas exchange. The S tronic 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is a key component, offering incredibly fast and smooth gear changes. This transmission features two separate clutches, one for odd and one for even gears, allowing for pre-selection of the next gear and eliminating torque interruption during shifts. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, providing excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 TDI quattro S tronic delivers a refined and effortless driving experience. The engine’s 580 Nm (427.79 lb-ft) of torque, available from a low 1750 rpm, provides strong acceleration in any gear. The S tronic transmission complements the engine perfectly, offering quick and seamless shifts. While not as overtly sporty as the A5 with the 2.0 TFSI engine and manual transmission, the 3.0 TDI offers a more relaxed and comfortable grand touring experience. The quattro all-wheel drive system inspires confidence, particularly on slippery surfaces. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, with a relatively tall seventh gear for highway cruising. Compared to the 2.0 TDI variants, the 3.0 TDI offers significantly more power and torque, resulting in noticeably quicker acceleration and improved overtaking ability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A5 Sportback 3.0 TDI quattro S tronic typically came well-equipped as standard. Common features included leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and an Audi Concert audio system. Optional extras were plentiful, including Audi’s MMI navigation plus system, advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane assist, and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system. Interior trim options ranged from brushed aluminum to wood veneers, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin. Exterior styling options included various wheel designs and metallic paint finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Sportback features a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilizes an independent multi-link setup, while the rear employs an independent trapezoidal link arrangement. This configuration provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A5 Sportback 3.0 TDI quattro S tronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, smooth transmission, and comfortable ride. The Sportback body style was also lauded for its practicality and stylish design. Compared to other trims in the A5 lineup, the 3.0 TDI offered a significant performance advantage, but at a higher price point. Fuel economy was competitive for a vehicle of its size and performance, and reliability was generally good, although diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues could occur with infrequent long-distance driving.
Legacy
The 3.0 TDI engine, in various iterations, proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant. The S tronic transmission, while requiring more diligent maintenance than a traditional automatic, is known for its efficiency and responsiveness. Today, well-maintained examples of the A5 Sportback 3.0 TDI quattro S tronic remain desirable on the used car market, offering a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and practicality. Potential buyers should be aware of the maintenance requirements of the DPF and the S tronic transmission, and ensure a thorough inspection is conducted before purchase. The A5 Sportback, in general, helped solidify Audi’s reputation for building premium, technologically advanced vehicles.
