The Audi A5 Sportback, specifically the 3.0 TDI V6 clean diesel variant with quattro all-wheel drive and the S tronic dual-clutch transmission, represents a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and efficiency within the A5 model range. Produced from 2011 to 2015 as part of the 8TA facelift generation, this version occupied a premium position in the Sportback lineup, offering a significant step up in power and refinement compared to the lower-spec engines. The Sportback body style itself, 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 and stylish alternative to traditional saloon cars.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Sportback (8TA, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI V6 clean diesel (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) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 152 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, 141.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 288.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 4000-4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1400-3250 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1400-3250 rpm) |
| 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 | 1735 kg (3825.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2285 kg (5037.56 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 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.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| 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 | 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 | 245/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this A5 Sportback variant lies the 3.0-liter TDI V6 engine, identified by engine codes CDUC, CKVB, or CKVC depending on the specific production year and market. This engine is a member of Audi’s long-running family of V6 diesel engines, known for their smoothness and robust construction. The engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A single turbocharger, often paired with an intercooler, provides forced induction, boosting power and torque. The valvetrain employs double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to the engine’s overall efficiency. The S tronic 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is a key component, offering rapid and seamless gear changes. This transmission allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector.
Driving Characteristics
The 245 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque produced by the 3.0 TDI engine deliver strong performance in the A5 Sportback. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 5.6 seconds, making it a genuinely quick vehicle. The S tronic transmission plays a crucial role in maximizing this performance, providing near-instantaneous shifts and keeping the engine within its optimal power band. Compared to the lower-powered 1.8 TFSI or 2.0 TDI variants, the 3.0 TDI offers significantly more effortless acceleration and overtaking capability. While the manual transmission options provided a more engaging driving experience for some, the S tronic offered a level of convenience and efficiency that appealed to a broader audience. The quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0 TDI Sportback typically came well-equipped, positioning it as a mid-to-high-range trim level. Standard features often included leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a color display. Optional extras could include navigation, a premium sound system (often Bang & Olufsen), advanced driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist, and various cosmetic enhancements. Interior trim options ranged from brushed aluminum to wood veneers, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their taste.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Sportback’s chassis features an independent multi-link suspension at the front and an independent trapezoidal lever suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable yet controlled ride. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking maneuvers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.0 TDI Sportback was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, refinement, and fuel economy. It offered a compelling alternative to traditional executive cars, appealing to buyers who wanted a more stylish and versatile vehicle. Compared to the petrol-powered A5 variants, the 3.0 TDI offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a more practical choice for long-distance driving. While the 2.0 TDI provided similar fuel efficiency, the 3.0 TDI’s V6 engine offered a smoother and more refined driving experience. Reliability was generally good, although diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues could occur with infrequent long-distance driving.
Legacy
The 3.0 TDI V6 engine has proven to be a durable and reliable powertrain, with many examples still on the road today. While diesel engines have faced increased scrutiny in recent years, the A5 Sportback 3.0 TDI remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for those seeking a comfortable, capable, and fuel-efficient grand tourer. Regular maintenance, including timely DPF regeneration and oil changes, is crucial for ensuring the long-term health of this engine. The combination of the powerful V6 diesel, the smooth S tronic transmission, and the practical Sportback body style has cemented this variant’s place as a desirable and well-regarded vehicle within the Audi lineup.
