Design and body
The exterior design of the Audi A8 is sporty, flowing and highly expressive. The Audi A8 L is 13 centimeters (5.1 in) longer than the standard version in both overall length and wheelbase. As an option, Audi can deliver the headlights in innovative Matrix LED technology. Each headlight unit has 25 small, individual LEDs which generate the high-beam light; they can be individually switched on or off and can be dimmed as necessary.
One great strength of the big sedan is its lightweight design. The Audi A8 ultra 3.0 TDI quattro with the normal wheelbase has a curb weight (without driver) of just 1,880 kg (4,144.7 lb). The body with its Audi Space Frame (ASF) design is made almost entirely of aluminum, weighing in at just 231 kg (509.3 lb), which is around 40 percent lighter than a comparable steel body.
Interior
Elegant lines and generous interior space stand out inside the Audi flagship. Audi offers numerous options for the front seats, including five modes of ventilation and massage. Two individual power-adjustable rear seats are available in the A8 and the A8 L. The top-of-the-line equipment in the sedan with the long wheelbase is the relaxation seat with a power fold-out footrest. Many other luxury features are available to choose from.
All interior parts were selected with the utmost care and exhibit uncompromisingly precise workmanship. Each and every detail expresses the hand-crafted character of the luxury sedan. Despite its many functionalities, the operating concept is a model of intuitive design. Audi can also install an optional head-up display.
Drive system
The TFSI and the two TDI engines that are available in the A8 exhibit impressive power, smooth running and efficiency. With the 4.0 TFSI, the cylinder on demand (COD) system deactivates four cylinders when under part load. The 4.2 TDI engine delivers a mighty 850 Nm (626.9 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft.
Engine lineup
- 4.0 TFSI quattro COD with 320 kW (435 hp)
- 3.0 TDI quattro with 193 kW (262 hp)
- 3.0 TDI ultra quattro with 193 kW (262 hp)
- 4.2 TDI quattro with 283 kW (385 hp)
Audi A8
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 9.3 – 5.7 (25.3 – 41.3 US mpg)
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 214 – 149 (344.4 – 239.8 g/mi)
(Figures vary depending on engine/transmission/wheels/tires)
Audi A8 L
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 9.3 – 5.8 (25.3 – 40.6 US mpg)
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 215 – 153 (346.0 – 246.2 g/mi)
(Figures vary depending on engine/transmission/wheels/tires)
All the engines are equipped with an eight-speed tiptronic that delivers fast and smooth gear shifts. The electronically controlled automatic transmission is paired with quattro permanent all-wheel drive. Audi can add the sport differential as an option; it comes as standard equipment with the 4.2 TDI.
Chassis
The sedan owes its sporty character in large part to the chassis. The standard Audi drive select system also incorporates the adaptive air suspension plus adjustable dampers. Audi also offers the air suspension with sport tuning and dynamic steering as options.
Equipment and trim
In the MMI navigation plus system, the MMI user interface with its large rotary/push-button control adds MMI touch. The Audi connect including car phone technology module connects the large sedan to the Internet. The infotainment range is rounded out by components such as the Bang Olufsen Advanced Sound System and Rear Seat Entertainment.
Driving is even more impressive with the optional assistance systems. The most important systems are adaptive cruise control with stop go function, the Audi pre sense basic safety system, Audi side assist, Audi active lane assist, park assist and night vision assistant.
Audi A8 L W12
The Audi A8 L W12 is the pinnacle of the model series. Its naturally aspirated gasoline engine – extremely short and lightweight thanks to its W layout – produces 368 kW (500 hp) and 625 Nm (461.0 lb-ft) torque from its 6.3 liters of engine displacement. At low engine load, the specially developed cylinder on demand (COD) system is active.
The standard equipment on the top-of-the-line model – including the Matrix LED headlights, the individual rear seats and many other features – can satisfy even the most discerning requirements. Exclusive options include the Audi exclusive concept trim line with leather by the Italian custom handcrafting company Poltrona Frau.
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 11.2 – 11.0 (21.0 – 21.4 US mpg);
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 259 – 254 (416.8 – 408.8 g/mi)
(Figures vary depending on engine/transmission/wheels/tires
Audi A8 L Security
The Audi A8 L Security, the special security version of the A8 L, meets the most stringent guidelines for non-military sedans. Its passenger cell integrates extremely tough and resilient materials such as hot-formed armored steel, aramide fabrics, ceramics, special aluminum alloys and multi-plate glass. The sedan’s standard and optional features perfect its security concept. The Audi A8 L Security is available with the 4.0 TFSI or the W12.
The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.