2009 Audi A8L 4.2 Quattro Review

Some would argue that it's offensive to talk about a car like the $106,925 Audi A8L in times like these. Shoppers in this price bracket are, for the most part, economically immune to the impending financial apocalypse that's descending upon the rest of us suckers.

There's a stately, handsome and quietly powerful style here.

After all, cars with adaptive air suspension, a pop-out navigation screen and speed-deployable cabin mood-lighting tend to be a good jaunt away from reality for most. Did I mention the air-conditioned massaging seats, rear sunshades and a cabin packed full of more metal and leather than your average S&M get-together?

The A8L: Jaw-dropping handsome
Thing is, this machine doesn't shout to the world for attention or scream to other motorists that you're unaffected by market failures and stock-price crashes. With the prominent and blocky front end, LED taillamps, subtle bits of chrome and 19-inch wheels, A8L is a rewarding machine to spend some time staring at--though it never demands you do so.

There's a stately, handsome and quietly powerful style here. Despite the semi-limousine proportions, it's athletic, too. Think "well-mannered hulking football player in a perfectly tailored suit", and you're in the right ballpark.

A rolling luxury flat
The transition from your favorite high-end hotel business lounge to your car has never been so seamless.

Inside the tester, wood paneling contrasted with the black dashboard, aluminum trim and brown seats. It's more colorful and upbeat than an S-Class and more energetic-looking than a 7-Series--though the old-school MMI console, climate controls and gear shifter look somewhat aged.

Fire up the engine with the press of a button, and the instruments snap to attention while the headlights self-check and level, and the Bose stereo stands by to flood the cabin with sound.

Inside the tester, wood paneling contrasted with the black dashboard, aluminum trim and brown seats.