Audi A8
Overview
Audi A8 stands as a discreet contender in the realm of full-size luxury sedans, characterized by its understated yet self-assured personality and design. Its spacious and comfortable interior rivals that of its longstanding competitors, the BMW 7-series and Mercedes-Benz S-class, while maintaining a more rational and approachable layout and aesthetic.
Under the hood, a turbocharged V-6 serves as the sole powerplant. While it may not boast the quickest acceleration in its class, its whisper-quiet operation aligns perfectly with the A8’s stealthy demeanor. Extensive sound insulation ensures a hushed cabin environment, allowing both driver and passengers to arrive at their destination feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Despite its focus on comfort, the A8 demonstrates surprising agility when the occasion calls for it. It maintains impressive speed through gentle curves and navigates tighter bends with a nimbleness that belies its substantial size.
For those seeking heightened performance and quicker acceleration, Audi offers the high-performance S8 variant, which is reviewed separately.
What’s New for 2024?
he 2024 Audi A8 continues to offer a blend of luxury and technology. All A8 models come with a six-month trial subscription to Audi Connect PLUS, which includes access to the Audi app store. This software package enhances the vehicle’s connectivity, allowing for remote start functionality via a smartphone app. It also integrates a variety of applications into the MMI (Multi Media Interface) system, including music, video, gaming, navigation, parking & charging, weather, and news.
In terms of exterior aesthetics, the A8’s color palette includes Sebring Black crystal effect paint, offering buyers an elegant and sophisticated option for their luxury sedan.
The A8 maintains its position in the full-size luxury sedan market, combining advanced technology with Audi’s renowned comfort and driving dynamics. Its features and capabilities aim to provide a premium experience for both drivers and passengers, whether they’re seeking entertainment, information, or convenience during their journeys.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The 2024 Audi A8 has a starting price of $91,995. For buyers looking to maximize their A8 experience, consider the following packages:
Comfort Plus package:
Dual-pane acoustic glass for side windows (reduces noise)
Massaging front seats
Heated armrests
Heated outboard rear seats
Head-up display
HD Matrix-design LED headlights
Black optic plus package:
High gloss black exterior trim
Black Audi rings and badges
Black brake calipers
Unique 21-inch 10-spoke design wheels
Executive package:
Adaptive cruise control with lane keeping
Remote parking feature
Heated steering wheel
These packages enhance the A8’s luxury features, aesthetics, and advanced driver assistance systems. The Comfort Plus package focuses on passenger comfort and premium lighting. The Black optic plus package adds a sleek, understated appearance that aligns with the A8’s discreet character. The Executive package brings additional convenience and safety features.
When configuring your A8, consider which features align best with your priorities and driving habits to create a personalized luxury experience.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Audi A8’s powertrain and performance characteristics:
Powertrain:
Engine: Turbocharged V-6 with 48-volt hybrid system
Power output: 335 horsepower
Torque: 331 foot-pounds, available from 1370 rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (standard)
Performance:
0-60 mph acceleration: 5.3 seconds
Key features:
Adjustable air suspension (standard)
Adaptive dampers (standard)
The A8’s powertrain is designed for smooth operation, benefiting from extensive sound-deadening measures. The low-end torque availability allows for responsive acceleration in everyday driving without needing to push the engine hard.
Audi has tuned the A8 to balance athleticism and ride comfort, a characteristic trait of their sedan lineup. This tuning philosophy aims to deliver a driving experience that goes beyond what might be expected from looking at the specifications alone.
For those seeking higher performance, Audi offers the S8 model, which features a turbocharged V-8 engine producing 563 horsepower.
The A8’s combination of power, refinement, and chassis tuning positions it as a luxury sedan that can provide both comfort for passengers and an engaging experience for the driver when desired.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Audi A8’s fuel economy information:
EPA Fuel Economy Estimates:
City: 19 mpg
Highway: 28 mpg
These figures represent the official estimates provided by the Environmental Protection Agency for the A8’s fuel efficiency.
Real-world observations:
While Car and Driver (C/D) hasn’t conducted their standardized 75-mph highway fuel-economy test on the current A8, they did observe fuel economy in a previous model:
Observed combined city-and-highway driving: 19 mpg
This was in a long-wheelbase 2019 A8L model
It’s worth noting that real-world fuel economy can vary based on driving conditions, habits, and specific vehicle configurations. The observed 19 mpg in combined driving aligns with the EPA’s city estimate, suggesting that the A8 may perform close to its official ratings in typical use.
For potential buyers, these figures provide a general idea of what to expect in terms of fuel consumption. The A8’s fuel economy is in line with what one might expect from a full-size luxury sedan with a focus on performance and comfort.
If you’re particularly interested in fuel efficiency, it might be worth considering how your typical driving patterns (city vs. highway, driving style, etc.) might affect your real-world fuel economy in the A8.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Audi A8’s interior features and options:
Seating and Space:
Long wheelbase ensures ample space for front and rear passengers
Standard five-passenger layout
Optional four-passenger seating package available
Standard Five-Passenger Layout:
Comfortable seating for both front and rear passengers
Optional Four-Passenger Seating Package:
Designed for owners who primarily ride in the rear
Removes center rear seat
Includes two power-adjustable rear seats with:
Heating
Ventilation
Massage function
Heated foot-massage feature
Comes with two individual entertainment tablets
Note: This option reduces power adjustments for the front passenger seat
Cargo Space:
13 cubic-foot trunk capacity (relatively modest for its class)
Interior Quality and Customization:
High-quality materials throughout
Multiple leather options available
Various wood inlay choices
Interior Ambience:
Described as somewhat understated compared to some competitors (e.g., Mercedes S-class)
Maintains a more reserved luxury aesthetic
The A8’s interior prioritizes passenger comfort and offers high levels of customization. The optional four-passenger layout caters to those who prefer a chauffeur-driven experience, providing luxurious amenities for rear-seat passengers. While the overall design may be more restrained than some rivals, the A8 still offers a premium environment with high-quality materials and finishes. The trunk space, while adequate, may be a consideration for those needing extensive cargo capacity.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Audi A8’s infotainment and connectivity features:
Infotainment System:
MMI Touch Response system
Dual touchscreen setup:
Upper screen: 10.1 inches
Lower screen: 8.6 inches
Haptic feedback on both screens
Traditional volume knob on the console
System Functionality:
Quickly responsive
Highly configurable
Customizable buttons on lower screen
Permanent buttons for navigation, weather, telephone, and radio on upper screen
Note: Screens prone to fingerprints
Connectivity:
Two USB ports (data and charging) in front
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration (standard)
Amazon Alexa compatibility
Wi-Fi capability via Audi Connect Plus (available)
Instrument Cluster:
12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit (standard)
Known for brightness and legibility
Additional Features:
Most functions controlled via touchscreens or steering wheel controls
The A8’s infotainment system offers a blend of modern touchscreen technology and some traditional controls. The dual-screen setup provides extensive customization options, allowing users to tailor the interface to their preferences. While the system may have a learning curve, it offers quick responses and a wide range of functions.
The inclusion of smartphone integration, voice assistant compatibility, and Wi-Fi options ensures the A8 stays connected on the go. The Virtual Cockpit instrument cluster adds to the high-tech feel of the cockpit while providing clear, customizable information to the driver.
Overall, the system aims to balance cutting-edge technology with user-friendly features, though some users might need time to fully acclimate to the dual-screen layout.
