Decoding Audi Specs: From TFSI to Quattro Explained

Reading Time: 2 minutes

If you’ve ever stared at something like an Audi S3 Sportback 45 TFSI quattro, wondering if you were reading specs or playing bingo, you’re not alone. But Audi’s naming system actually tells you a lot if you know how to read it. Once you decode what the letters and numbers mean, you’ll know exactly what to expect from a model’s size, power, engine, and drivetrain. In this blog, we’re stripping away the guesswork to put you in control when scanning Audi specs.

Model letters and numbers aren’t random (they’re categories)

A is your base (sedans, hatchbacks, wagons)
Q means SUV whether small (Q2) or massive (Q8)
E signals an EV. Simple enough
S adds power and tighter handling
RS is Audi going all-in on speed

This is step one if you’re trying to compare Audi specs. An A4 and an S4 look similar on paper until you realize one’s built for daily commutes and the other for carving up back roads!

The number that follows the letter is about size and luxury level (not horsepower).

A1 is tiny and entry-level.

A8 is a stretched-out executive cruiser.

Q2 is a compact city SUV.

Q7 fits three rows and an attitude.

Higher number = bigger car, higher price point, more features. Not always more power, though, and that’s where Audi gets clever.

Power badge: the secret horsepower code

You’ll see a two-digit number (like 35, 45, or 60) right before the engine type. That number tells you how much power the car makes. The higher the number, the stronger the engine.

30 = 109–128 hp

35 = 147–160 hp

40 = 167–201 hp

45 = 226–248 hp

50 = 281–308 hp

55 = 328–368 hp

60 = 429–455 hp

70 = 536+ hp

What are TFSI, TDI, and e-tron?

The part after the power badge tells you how the car is powered. If you’ve seen “TFSI e” and wondered if it meant electric, hybrid, or just German marketing, here’s the deal:

TFSI = petrol

TDI = diesel

TFSI e = petrol plug-in hybrid

TDI e = diesel plug-in hybrid (rare)

e-tron = full EV

So if you see A6 50 TFSI e, you’re looking at a mid-size plug-in hybrid with around 281–308 hp.

Quattro isn’t just branding—it’s Audi DNA

When you see ‘quattro,’ you’re getting all-wheel drive: more grip in the wet and tighter cornering, plus better control in real-world conditions!

Sportback and GT

Sportback means hatchback function with coupe styling. It’s a practical liftgate with a low and fast roofline. Think of it as Audi’s way of making cargo space look good.

GT (Grand Tourer) is Audi’s code for long-haul comfort with high-speed credibility.

Know what you’re buying before you buy it

The best way to compare Audi specs is to use thecarspec.net. It doesn’t matter if you’re eyeing a diesel A6, a plug-in Q5, or a full-electric Q8 e-tron. You’ll find every detail that matters here, lined up, side by side!