Range-topping luxury flagship cars are typically reserved for those wishing the best life has to offer. This level of opulence is not typically aimed at those who seek out performance or even a dynamic driving experience.
There are cars out there that manage to blend extremes, and the 2013 Audi S8 is one such car. This band of super-luxo supercars includes the likes of the BMW Alpina B7, Aston Martin Rapide and Jaguar XJ Supersport. This is, without a doubt, an exclusive bunch.
“S” is about power and luxury extremes.
The Audi S8 has been an elusive and rare car in Audi’s lineup since 1999. It started off with a pumped-up V8, followed by a luscious Lambo-derived V10. Now, for the 2013 model year, the V8 returns with a twist. In fact, two twists...
The heart of the new 2013 S8 is a twin-turbocharged 4.0L V8. Whistling Dixie at wide open throttle, this marvelous undersquare engine pumps out 520 hp at no less than 6,000 rpm and 481 lb-ft of torque at 5,500 rpm.
At a relatively svelte 2,105 kg (4,641 lb), and with all this power, the 2013 Audi S8 reaches 100 km/h in only 4.1 seconds. The 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission plays a huge role in making it all happen. The other principal element at play here is Audi’s Quattro AWD system.
The 2013 Audi S8’s Aluminium space frame holds to it an S8-specific adaptive sport air suspension. Other features include servotronic dynamic speed-sensitive steering and huge ventilated discs.
But enough on the part that makes the S8 dynamic. Let’s look into what makes it decadently lavish.
On the outside, the 21” wheels and S8-specific aluminum optic mirrors, door sills and grille are all one needs to see to understand that this is not a regular 2013 Audi A8.
Onboard, the 2013 Audi S8 is all A8 +1. This means that the front passengers get first class seats for take-offs, landings and serious passing manoeuvres. The seats are covered in Valcona leather with a sport-stitched diamond look. Love Nappa leather? The S8 features some everywhere, including on the centre console, knee rests, door armrests and airbag cap.
Love buttons and gadgets? How about 22-way power sport comfort front seats including four-way power lumbar adjustments? What about a 630-Watt BOSE Premium audio system with 14 speakers, Audi MMI touch with handwriting-recognition technology and navigation, and a plethora of other gadgets?
And, we have yet to discuss what’s on the option list. Think a 19-speaker, 1,400-Watt Bang & Olufsen advanced sound system and Night vision assistance with pedestrian detection and heads-up display.
The 2013 Audi S8 is a silent statement that says: I want it all. Pricing starts at a cool $130,000.
 |
There are cars out there that manage to blend extremes, and the 2013 Audi S8 is one such car. This band of super-luxo supercars includes the likes of the BMW Alpina B7, Aston Martin Rapide and Jaguar XJ Supersport. This is, without a doubt, an exclusive bunch.
“S” is about power and luxury extremes.
The Audi S8 has been an elusive and rare car in Audi’s lineup since 1999. It started off with a pumped-up V8, followed by a luscious Lambo-derived V10. Now, for the 2013 model year, the V8 returns with a twist. In fact, two twists...
The heart of the new 2013 S8 is a twin-turbocharged 4.0L V8. Whistling Dixie at wide open throttle, this marvelous undersquare engine pumps out 520 hp at no less than 6,000 rpm and 481 lb-ft of torque at 5,500 rpm.
At a relatively svelte 2,105 kg (4,641 lb), and with all this power, the 2013 Audi S8 reaches 100 km/h in only 4.1 seconds. The 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission plays a huge role in making it all happen. The other principal element at play here is Audi’s Quattro AWD system.
 |
| The heart of the new 2013 S8 is a twin-turbocharged 4.0L V8. (Photo: Audi) |
The 2013 Audi S8’s Aluminium space frame holds to it an S8-specific adaptive sport air suspension. Other features include servotronic dynamic speed-sensitive steering and huge ventilated discs.
But enough on the part that makes the S8 dynamic. Let’s look into what makes it decadently lavish.
On the outside, the 21” wheels and S8-specific aluminum optic mirrors, door sills and grille are all one needs to see to understand that this is not a regular 2013 Audi A8.
Onboard, the 2013 Audi S8 is all A8 +1. This means that the front passengers get first class seats for take-offs, landings and serious passing manoeuvres. The seats are covered in Valcona leather with a sport-stitched diamond look. Love Nappa leather? The S8 features some everywhere, including on the centre console, knee rests, door armrests and airbag cap.
Love buttons and gadgets? How about 22-way power sport comfort front seats including four-way power lumbar adjustments? What about a 630-Watt BOSE Premium audio system with 14 speakers, Audi MMI touch with handwriting-recognition technology and navigation, and a plethora of other gadgets?
 |
| The front passengers get first class seats for take-offs, landings and serious passing manoeuvres. (Photo: Audi) |
And, we have yet to discuss what’s on the option list. Think a 19-speaker, 1,400-Watt Bang & Olufsen advanced sound system and Night vision assistance with pedestrian detection and heads-up display.
The 2013 Audi S8 is a silent statement that says: I want it all. Pricing starts at a cool $130,000.
Article Gallery