Choosing the right battery for the Audi A8 III (D4), produced from 2010 onwards, is essential to maintain the reliability and performance of this luxury sedan. Given the wide range of powerful engines available in this generation—from the efficient 3.0 TDI to the high-performance 6.3 W12 quattro—Audi has ensured that all models are equipped with robust electrical systems, often requiring batteries with high cold-cranking amps (CCA) and advanced technology like AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat). Understanding which battery best suits your specific A8 model depends on a few critical factors, including engine type, presence of Start-Stop systems, and electrical demand.
In the case of most petrol engines, such as the 2.0 TFSI hybrid, 2.5 TFSI, and various quattro models like the 3.0 TFSI or 4.0 TFSI, Audi specifies the use of AGM batteries with a capacity in the range of 95–96 Ah and a starting power (CCA) of 850 A. These batteries are designed to deliver superior performance and support the high number of onboard electronics typical in a vehicle like the A8. Even without Start-Stop systems, AGM batteries are chosen for their durability and ability to handle deep cycling. For these models, suitable options include the Bosch S5A 13, Exide EK950, Exide EK960, Halfords AGM 019, Lucas LF017, and Varta G14. These are just examples of compatible batteries that meet the necessary specifications.
For diesel engines like the 3.0 TDI and 4.2 TDI quattro, similar AGM battery specifications apply. Most variants without Start-Stop still use batteries with 850 A CCA and a capacity of 95–96 Ah, while higher-powered variants, such as the 3.0 TDI quattro with increased electrical load or Start-Stop systems, step up to batteries offering 950 A and 105–106 Ah capacity. In such cases, compatible examples include the Bosch S5A 15, Exide EK1050, Exide EK1060, Lucas LF020, and Varta H15. These batteries offer enhanced capacity and endurance, ideal for diesel engines that generally demand higher starting power.
Interestingly, even among the performance-focused petrol models like the S8 quattro or the luxurious 6.3 W12 quattro, Audi maintains the 95–96 Ah and 850 A standard. Despite their engine size and power, these vehicles use the same category of AGM batteries, proving how standardized yet high-performing the electrical systems are across the board in the D4 generation. It also reflects how AGM batteries can meet a broad spectrum of demands, offering both high CCA and resilience for advanced onboard systems.
A key advantage of using AGM batteries is their maintenance-free design and resistance to spillage, as the electrolyte is absorbed into glass fiber mats. This construction also allows for a longer service life, better performance in extreme temperatures, and compatibility with regenerative braking systems found in Start-Stop-enabled variants. It’s important to note that traditional flooded batteries are not used in the Audi A8 D4, as AGM is the standard across all configurations.
When selecting a new battery, vehicle owners should always match both the physical dimensions and technical specifications of the original battery. While the battery models listed above are suitable examples, it’s always advisable to double-check terminal layout, hold-down type, and onboard battery management system requirements. Some newer A8s may also need the battery to be registered or coded after installation to ensure proper integration with the vehicle’s electronics.
As a final tip, if you drive short distances frequently or keep many electronics running while the engine is off, the AGM battery’s ability to handle deep discharges is particularly beneficial. It’s one of the reasons why AGM technology became a standard for modern premium vehicles like the Audi A8, blending comfort, safety, and performance in every detail—including the battery.
Audi A8 in version III (D4) is produced from 2010. We invite you to a list of batteries matching individual engine versions.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for Audi A8 (2010-):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
Audi A8 III (D4) – petrol engines:
- 2.0 TFSI hybrid
- 2.5 TFSI – with Start-Stop
- 3.0 TFSI quattro
- 4.0 TFSI quattro
- 4.2 FSI quattro
- 6.3 W12 quattro
- S8 quattro – with Start-Stop
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 13 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK950 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK960 | 96 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced AGM 019 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF017 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM G14 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
Audi A8 III (D4) – diesel engines:
- 3.0 TDI
- 3.0 TDI quattro
- 4.2 TDI quattro
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 13 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK950 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK960 | 96 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced AGM 019 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF017 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM G14 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
Audi A8 III (D4) – diesel engines:
- 3.0 TDI quattro
- 4.2 TDI quattro – with Start-Stop
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 15 | 105 Ah 950 A | 393x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK1050 | 105 Ah 950 A | 392x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK1060 | 106 Ah 950 A | 393x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF020 | 105 Ah 950 A | 393x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM H15 | 105 Ah 950 A | 393x175x190 mm | More |
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your Audi A8 , or if you want to help others in their selection, please send us a photo of your current battery in the comment section at the bottom of the page. You can also send the picture to contact@whatbattery.co.uk (we will place it in the comments to also help other users). Be sure to specify the car model, year, type, as well as the engine capacity and power. We’ll do our best to assist you!