The Audi A6 Sedan (4G, C7 facelift) 3.0 TDI V6 clean diesel, produced from 2014 to 2016, represents a significant refinement of Audi’s mid-size executive car. This variant, equipped with the 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 218 horsepower and paired with the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, occupied a sweet spot in the A6 lineup, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and luxury. It was positioned as a premium offering, sitting above the lower-powered 2.0 TDI models and below the performance-oriented S6. The C7 facelift brought updated styling, improved technology, and enhanced efficiency compared to the pre-facelift C7 models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A6 |
| Generation | A6 Sedan (4G, C7 facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI V6 clean diesel (218 Hp) quattro S tronic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 133 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 244 km/h (151.61 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 123.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 283.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 218 Hp @ 3250-4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1250-3000 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1250-3000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 5000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CRTE, CTCC |
| 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 | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1765 kg (3891.16 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2375 kg (5235.98 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 | 73 l (19.28 US gal | 16.06 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 85 kg (187.39 lbs.) |
| Length | 4933 mm (194.21 in.) |
| Width | 1874 mm (73.78 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2086 mm (82.13 in.) |
| Height | 1455-1468 mm (57.28 – 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 | 930 mm (36.61 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1091 mm (42.95 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| 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 | Ventilated discs |
| 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 | 8.0J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A6 Sedan (4G, C7 facelift) 3.0 TDI V6 clean diesel, produced between 2014 and 2016, is a sophisticated executive sedan built upon the Volkswagen Group’s MLB platform (specifically the 4G variant). This facelifted version of the C7 A6 brought with it revised styling cues, including redesigned headlights and taillights, a more prominent grille, and updated interior trim. The 3.0 TDI engine, a mainstay of Audi’s European lineup, was highly regarded for its blend of power and fuel efficiency. In the US market, while the A6 was available, the diesel variants were less common due to emissions regulations and consumer preference for gasoline engines. This particular configuration, with the S tronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, aimed to deliver a refined and capable driving experience.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this A6 variant lies the 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine, identified by engine codes CRTE or CTCC depending on specific market and emissions requirements. This engine is a turbocharged common-rail direct injection diesel, featuring four valves per cylinder and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, significantly boosts power output. The common-rail injection system, operating at extremely high pressures, ensures precise fuel delivery and efficient combustion. The S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission provides incredibly fast and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. Unlike a traditional automatic, the S tronic utilizes two separate clutches – one for even-numbered gears and one for odd-numbered gears – allowing for pre-selection of the next gear. This minimizes interruption in power delivery during shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 TDI with the S tronic transmission delivers a markedly different driving experience compared to the lower-powered 2.0 TDI or the gasoline-powered variants. The 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque, available from a low 1250 rpm, provides strong acceleration in virtually any gear. The S tronic transmission’s quick shifts contribute to a 0-60 mph time of around 6.3 seconds, making it a genuinely quick sedan. While not as overtly sporty as the S6, the 3.0 TDI offers ample power for confident overtaking and highway cruising. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and control. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, with higher gears optimized for relaxed cruising at highway speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0 TDI quattro S tronic typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium trim level. Standard features often included leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a central display screen, and parking sensors. Optional extras could include a Bang & Olufsen sound system, adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, and various driver assistance systems. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to brushed aluminum, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their taste. The seats were typically power-adjustable and offered excellent support for long journeys.
Chassis & Braking
The A6 C7 facelift featured a sophisticated chassis design, utilizing an independent multi-link suspension at the front and an independent trapezoidal link suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The 3.0 TDI models typically featured larger brakes than the lower-powered variants, with ventilated discs at all four corners. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, along with electronic stability control. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion type with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A6 3.0 TDI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, smooth transmission, comfortable ride, and high-quality interior. Compared to the 2.0 TDI models, the 3.0 TDI offered significantly more power and a more relaxed driving experience. While the gasoline-powered A6 variants provided a different character, the 3.0 TDI stood out for its superior fuel economy and torque. Reliability was generally good, although diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues could occur with infrequent long-distance driving. Fuel economy figures of around 46 mpg combined were highly competitive for a vehicle of this size and performance.
Legacy
The Audi A6 C7 3.0 TDI V6 clean diesel has established a reputation as a reliable and capable executive sedan in the used car market. The engine, while complex, is generally durable if properly maintained. Regular servicing, including oil changes and DPF regeneration, is crucial for long-term reliability. The S tronic transmission, while offering excellent performance, can require more frequent servicing than a traditional automatic. Today, these A6 models represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a comfortable, efficient, and well-equipped luxury sedan. The combination of performance, fuel economy, and all-wheel-drive capability continues to make it an attractive option in the used car market.
