Audi Horsepower Chart by Model: Engine Specs, Torque & Performance Figures
You’re browsing Audi models and see badges like “40 TFSI” or “55 TDI.” You know they represent performance levels, but what do those numbers actually mean, and how much horsepower is really under the hood?
TLDR: Audi uses a two-number badge system (30 through 70) to indicate power output, with higher numbers meaning more performance. S and RS models retain their own naming for top-tier vehicles. This guide breaks down the horsepower, torque, and engine specs across Audi’s current lineup.
Decoding Audi’s Engine Badge System
Ever wonder what the numbers on the back of a new Audi actually stand for?
Audi introduced a standardized engine naming system in 2017 to simplify identifying a car’s power output . The two-digit number represents the engine’s power in kilowatts (kW), applied consistently across petrol (TFSI), diesel (TDI), and hybrid (e-tron) models . Higher numbers mean more power.
Here’s the breakdown:
| Badge | Power (kW) | Power (hp) |
|---|---|---|
| 25 | ~70 | ~95 |
| 30 | 81–96 | 110–130 |
| 35 | 110–120 | 148–163 |
| 40 | 125–150 | 168–204 |
| 45 | 169–185 | 227–252 |
| 50 | 210–230 | 281–313 |
| 55 | 245–275 | 328–374 |
| 60 | 320–340 | 429–462 |
| 70 | 400+ | 536+ |
Note: S, RS, and R8 models are excluded from this system and retain their traditional performance badges .
Performance by Model
Audi A6 and A6 allroad
The A6 demonstrates the range of available powertrains, from efficient diesels to powerful V6s .
| Model | Engine | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) | 0-100 km/h (s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 TDI | 2.0L 4-cyl diesel | 204 | 400 | 7.8 |
| 45 TDI | 3.0L V6 diesel | 245 | 500 | 6.6 |
| 50 TDI | 3.0L V6 diesel | 286 | 620 | 5.8 |
| 55 TDI | 3.0L V6 diesel | 344 | 700 | 5.2 |
| 55 TFSI | 3.0L V6 petrol | 340 | 500 | 5.2 |
Audi Q3 RS
The RS Q3 showcases Audi’s legendary five-cylinder engine.
| Model | Engine | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) | 0-100 km/h (s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RS Q3 | 2.5L 5-cyl turbo | 400 | 480 | 4.5 |
The 2.5 TFSI five-cylinder engine is a modern classic and has won the “International Engine of the Year” award nine times .
Audi Q7
Audi’s flagship SUV offers three distinct powertrain options .
| Model | Engine | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) | 0-100 km/h (s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 TDI | 3.0L V6 diesel | 286 | 620 | 6.1 |
| 55 TFSI | 3.0L V6 petrol | 340 | 500 | 5.6 |
| SQ7 TFSI | 4.0L V8 petrol | 507 | 770 | 4.1 |
V6 Diesel Technology: The S4 TDI Example
The S4 TDI showcases how Audi combines performance with efficiency .
| Model | Engine | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) | 0-100 km/h (s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S4 TDI | 3.0L V6 diesel | 347 | 700 | 4.8 |
The electric powered compressor (EPC) virtually eliminates turbo lag, delivering instant responsiveness. The mild-hybrid system enables coasting for up to 40 seconds with the engine off .
Plug-in Hybrid Options
The A6 e-hybrid combines a 2.0 TFSI petrol engine with an electric motor .
| Model | System Power (hp) | System Torque (Nm) | 0-100 km/h (s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| A6 e-hybrid 220 kW | 299 | 450 | 6.0 |
| A6 e-hybrid 270 kW | 367 | 500 | 5.3 |
“Audi’s new naming convention isn’t about engine size anymore—it’s about power output. Higher number equals more muscle, regardless of whether it’s petrol, diesel, or hybrid.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What do Audi badges like “40 TFSI” mean?
The number (40) indicates the power output range (168–204 hp). TFSI stands for “Turbo Fuel Stratified Injection,” meaning it’s a turbocharged petrol engine .
What’s the difference between TFSI and TDI?
TFSI = petrol engine. TDI = turbo diesel. The number system applies equally to both .
Which Audi has the most horsepower?
The RS e-tron GT Performance and R8 V10 are among Audi’s most powerful models, with the electric and V10 powertrains exceeding 600 hp.
What does the S and RS badge mean?
S models are sportier versions of standard models. RS (RennSport or “Race Sport”) models are Audi’s highest-performance versions .
References
Additional Resources & Official Information:
- Audi Official Website
- Audi A6 Technical Data
- Car and Driver – Audi Reviews
- AudiWorld – Owner Forums & Technical Discussions
Curious about a specific Audi model’s horsepower? Drop your question in the comments below!
