The Audi S4 Avant (B9, facelift) 3.0 TDI V6 with 347 horsepower, equipped with a mild hybrid system and the tiptronic automatic transmission, represents a performance-oriented variant of Audi’s popular executive wagon. Produced from 2019 through June 2020, this model occupied a significant position within the B9 generation S4 lineup, offering a blend of diesel efficiency, potent performance, and the practicality of a station wagon. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where diesel engines remained popular, offering a compelling alternative to gasoline-powered performance vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S4 |
| Generation | S4 Avant (B9, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI V6 (347 Hp) Mild Hybrid quattro tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | June, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 7-7.3 l/100 km (33.6 – 32.2 US mpg, 40.4 – 38.7 UK mpg, 14.3 – 13.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 184-192 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban, NEDC/WLTP equivalent) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban, NEDC/WLTP equivalent) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined, NEDC/WLTP equivalent) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC/WLTP equivalent) | 165 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| 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), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.3 kg/Hp, 190.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm, 383.6 Nm/tonne |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 0.5 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery weight | 10 kg (22.05 lbs) |
| Battery location | Under the trunk |
| Recuperation output | 8 kW |
| Power | 347 Hp @ 3850 rpm |
| Power per litre | 117 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 2500-3100 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 2500-3100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA897evo2 / DEWB |
| 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 | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger and Electric Powered Compressor, 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 | 1825 kg (4023.44 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2375 kg (5235.98 lbs) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 420 l (14.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 12 l (3.17 US gal | 2.64 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 | 4770 mm (187.8 in.) |
| Width | 1847 mm (72.72 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2022 mm (79.61 in.) |
| Height | 1408 mm (55.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2825 mm (111.22 in.) |
| Front track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Rear track | 1546 mm (60.87 in.) |
| Front overhang | 906 mm (35.67 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1039 mm (40.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive all four wheels, mixed mode operation |
| 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 | Ventilated discs |
| 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 | 8J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi S4 Avant (B9 facelift) 3.0 TDI, launched in 2019, represented a refinement of the B9 generation S4, which debuted in 2016. The facelift brought updated styling, enhanced technology, and crucially, the introduction of mild hybrid technology to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Positioned as a premium performance wagon, it aimed to deliver a sporty driving experience combined with the practicality expected of an Audi Avant. This variant was particularly popular in European markets where diesel engines were favored for their fuel economy and torque characteristics. It sat in the middle of the S4 Avant range, offering a balance between the base petrol models and potential higher-performance, more expensive options.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the S4 Avant 3.0 TDI lies the EA897evo2 engine, specifically the DEWB code. This 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine utilizes a sophisticated common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine features a single turbocharger, augmented by an electric powered compressor (EPC) to mitigate turbo lag and provide instant throttle response. This EPC is a key component of the mild hybrid system. The valvetrain employs double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. The 8-speed tiptronic automatic transmission is a torque-converter type, known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness. The mild hybrid system incorporates a 48V lithium-ion battery and a belt alternator starter (BAS) allowing for start-stop functionality, regenerative braking, and a limited amount of electric assistance during acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 347 horsepower and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 3.0 TDI engine provide strong acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 4.7 seconds, and the car is electronically limited to a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The tiptronic transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering quick and seamless gear changes. Compared to the petrol-powered S4 variants, the TDI offers a broader torque curve, resulting in strong pulling power from low engine speeds. While not as outright rev-happy as the gasoline engines, the TDI provides ample performance for everyday driving and spirited excursions. The mild hybrid system contributes to a smoother driving experience, particularly during start-stop cycles and low-speed maneuvering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S4 Avant 3.0 TDI typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included Audi’s virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster, a premium infotainment system with navigation, leather upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, and LED headlights. Sport seats were standard, providing excellent support. Optional extras included a Bang & Olufsen sound system, panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and various driver assistance systems. Interior trim options included brushed aluminum, carbon fiber, and wood veneers. The exterior styling featured S-specific bumpers, side skirts, and a rear diffuser, along with quad exhaust outlets.
Chassis & Braking
The S4 Avant features a sophisticated suspension system designed to balance comfort and handling. Independent multi-link suspension is used at both the front and rear. The suspension geometry is tuned for sporty handling, while still providing a comfortable ride quality. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system is integrated with Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system, enhancing traction and stability in all conditions. The quattro system utilizes a self-locking center differential to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S4 Avant 3.0 TDI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its strong performance, refined driving experience, and practical wagon body style. Fuel economy was a significant selling point, particularly compared to gasoline-powered performance cars. Compared to the 2.0-liter TFSI petrol variants, the TDI offered more torque and a more relaxed driving experience, albeit with slightly less outright horsepower. The TDI also offered a competitive alternative to other performance wagons, such as the BMW 3 Series Touring and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the EA897 engine family proving to be durable.
Legacy
The Audi S4 Avant (B9 facelift) 3.0 TDI represents a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality. While the B9 generation has been superseded by the B9.5 facelift, the 3.0 TDI variant remains a desirable used car option. The engine’s robust construction and the relatively sophisticated mild hybrid system contribute to long-term reliability. However, potential buyers should be aware of the maintenance requirements associated with diesel engines, including the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and AdBlue system. The S4 Avant 3.0 TDI continues to appeal to enthusiasts seeking a refined and capable performance wagon.
