The Audi S4 Avant (B9) 3.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic, produced from 2016 to 2019, represents a compelling blend of performance and practicality within the Audi S4 lineup. Positioned as a premium offering, it catered to buyers seeking the spirited driving experience of the S4 but with the added versatility of a station wagon (estate) body style and the convenience of an eight-speed automatic transmission. This variant occupied the middle ground in terms of price and performance within the B9 generation, sitting above the standard A4 Avant but below the even more focused RS4 Avant. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where the demand for performance wagons remained strong, though a limited number were imported to the United States as grey market vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S4 |
| Generation | S4 Avant (B9) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TFSI V6 (354 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.0-10.1 l/100 km (23.5 – 23.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1-6.3 l/100 km (38.6 – 37.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5-7.6 l/100 km (31.4 – 30.9 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 171-175 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 354 Hp @ 5400-6400 rpm |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1370-4500 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1370-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA839 / CWGD |
| 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 | 11.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1675 kg (3692.74 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2265 kg (4993.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 505 l (17.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1510 l (53.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 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 | 4745 mm (186.81 in.) |
| Width | 1842 mm (72.52 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2022 mm (79.61 in.) |
| Height | 1411-1437 mm (55.55 – 56.57 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2825 mm (111.22 in.) |
| Front track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1546 mm (60.87 in.) |
| Front overhang | 887 mm (34.92 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1033 mm (40.67 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 | 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The B9 generation Audi S4 Avant, launched in 2016, marked a significant step forward in performance and technology for Audi’s mid-size executive wagon. Built on the MLB Evo platform (shared with other Volkswagen Group vehicles like the A4, A5, Q5, and others), the S4 Avant aimed to deliver a more engaging driving experience than its predecessors. The 3.0 TFSI V6 engine, paired with the quattro all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, became the defining characteristic of this model. Production continued through 2019, with minor updates throughout its lifecycle. This specific configuration was popular in Europe, where wagons are favored, and offered a practical alternative to the S4 sedan.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the S4 Avant (B9) 3.0 TFSI lies the EA839 engine, a 3.0-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine boosted by a twin-scroll turbocharger. This engine, designated with the code CWGD, produces 354 horsepower at 5400-6400 rpm and 369 lb-ft of torque from a remarkably low 1370 to 4500 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection, ensuring precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion. The valvetrain employs Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, contributing to efficient cylinder filling and exhaust scavenging. The eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission is a torque-converter type, known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness. It features a wider gear spread than previous generations, improving both acceleration and fuel efficiency. The transmission also includes a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to take greater control over gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 TFSI engine and Tiptronic transmission combination delivers a refined yet potent driving experience. While not as raw or visceral as a manual transmission, the Tiptronic offers quick and seamless gear changes, maximizing the engine’s torque output. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 4.7 seconds, making it a genuinely quick vehicle. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. Compared to the six-speed manual transmission available on some S4 models, the Tiptronic prioritizes comfort and ease of use. The higher-output RS4 Avant, with its 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6, offers significantly more aggressive performance, while lower-powered A4 variants with smaller engines prioritize fuel economy over outright speed. The S4 Avant strikes a balance between these extremes.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S4 Avant (B9) came well-equipped as standard. Key features included sport seats upholstered in a combination of Alcantara and leather, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, stainless steel pedal caps, and S-specific exterior styling cues. The infotainment system featured a 7-inch display screen (later upgraded to an 8.3-inch screen) with Audi’s MMI interface. Optional extras included a Bang & Olufsen sound system, a virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster, adaptive cruise control, and a head-up display. Interior trim options ranged from brushed aluminum to carbon fiber, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The S4 Avant features a sophisticated suspension system designed to deliver both comfort and handling. The front suspension utilizes a five-link independent setup, while the rear employs a multi-link configuration. The suspension is tuned to provide a sporty yet compliant ride. Brakes consist of ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system is integrated with the quattro all-wheel-drive system to enhance stability and prevent oversteer or understeer. Compared to the standard A4 Avant, the S4 Avant benefits from a slightly lowered ride height and stiffer suspension tuning.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi S4 Avant (B9) 3.0 TFSI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, refined transmission, and comfortable ride. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for a performance wagon, averaging around 31 mpg in combined driving. Reliability has been generally good, although some owners have reported minor issues with the infotainment system and occasional oil consumption. Compared to rivals like the BMW 3 Series Touring and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate, the S4 Avant offered a compelling combination of performance, practicality, and luxury.
Legacy
The B9 Audi S4 Avant has established itself as a desirable used car, particularly among enthusiasts who appreciate its blend of performance and practicality. The 3.0 TFSI engine has proven to be relatively robust, and the Tiptronic transmission is generally reliable with proper maintenance. As with any performance vehicle, regular servicing is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. The S4 Avant (B9) remains a popular choice for those seeking a high-performance wagon that can handle both daily commuting and spirited weekend drives.
