Audi A8 Review

The Audi A8 is a full-size premium luxury sedan loaded to the brim with the company's latest technological advances. More than just a showcase for Audi design and engineering, the A8 serves two masters: The driver and the chauffeured. Every bit the equal of such makes as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series and Lexus LS, the A8 appeals to those who have the cash, but might prefer not to flaunt it quite so much. The A8's subtle styling is alluring without being flashy, a traditional design that stands the test of time long after other cars have become dated. Offered in regular or extended wheelbase versions, the A8 is all about style, sophistication and success.

Audi pairs back some of the A8's features, tossing the 6.0-liter W12 engine in favor of a 4.2-liter V8 for all trims and discontinuing the performance oriented S8. Normal wheelbase models gain an S8-inspired trunk lid spoiler and 19-inch wheels, while ventilated massage front seats are made standard on long wheelbase models.

Power for the big A8 comes from a muscular 350-horsepower FSI 4.2-liter V8. This engine is plenty strong and can move the A8 with ease, and there is no shortage of performance anywhere within the legal speed range. You'll find the handling to be unsurpassed in this league, and the quattro all-wheel-drive system can be singled out as a major contributor to the A8's hunkered-down cornering ability.

For many, the A8's interior is unsurpassed in both treatment and amenities. An interior trim upgrade package adds Valcona leather trim to the seats and armrest while Alcantara faux suede lavishes the upper door inserts. The driver is treated to a handsome dash with full instrumentation, steering wheel-mounted controls for audio, transmission and cruise control and a folding LCD screen for the MMI and navigation features. Rear-seat passengers enjoy unparalleled legroom and can opt for power adjustable heated seats, power lumbar support, a center pass-through refrigerator and DVD entertainment.
Other luxury cars have loyal followers and so does the A8.

The A8's exterior styling is somewhat low-key, with no radical or bold departures from previous Audi design themes. We think the A8 is quite handsome and very reserved – a car that appeals to your sense of taste rather than vanity. That being said, the A8 does offer a few options to make it stand out, features such as the massive 20-inch chrome wheels and a Sport Package.

The A8's standard 4.2-liter V8 is smooth, powerful and surprisingly easy on fuel. Audi does not attempt to excessively mute the sound of its engines, allowing just enough growl into the passenger compartment to remind the driver of what's under the hood.
4.2-liter V8
350 horsepower @ 6800 rpm
325 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/23


The Audi A8 has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting around $75,000. The long-wheelbase A8 L bumps the price closer to $79,000. A look at the New Car Blue Book Value page will show you the typical transaction price paid at the dealer, so be sure to check it out before you begin negotiations. The A8 is expected to retain a good resale value over time, just a few percentage points below the Mercedes-Benz S550, but much better than the Jaguar XJ. The A8 L posts slightly better marks, but remains a few points lower than the Mercedes-Benz S600.