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| Despite its substantial weight, the ultimate Audi manages a surprisingly quick 5.2 seconds to reach 100 km/h. (Photo: Volkswagen AG) |
The decision to modify the exterior styling of the A8 L will come as a bit of a surprise to some. After all, few are complaining about the all-new 8-cylinder model's face, a fresh, handsome and not too bold design. But it might be the not too bold part of it's facade that caused some concern among Audi's top brass, that obviously saw a need to separate this much more expensive model from its A4 and A6 siblings. It also points to the future for Audi, the ulterior motive of top-line models.
Regardless of Audi's reasoning, the new front end features a completely rethought front grille. Rather than being flat and horizontally rectangular, the new design starts out wide at the top, and tapers inward as it reaches the much deeper bottom. The grille's slats are painted gray, while the outer, surrounding edge is chromed. The reworked front styling is reminiscent of several Audi concept cars, in particular the A8-based Nuvolari Coupe (see Audi concepts in archive).
Flanking the grille, the German brand claims the title of featuring the world's first twelve-cylinder vehicle to be equipped with LED headlamps. Brighter, more efficient and with minimal energy consumption, they are proudly displayed behind clear lenses.
As for the interior, its aesthetic appearance is mildly altered. First off, a new, thinner four-spoke steering wheel has been installed (also styled similarly to various concepts). Additionally customers can now choose from either a rear bench (as in the standard A8 L) or two molded body-hugging buckets. Those who ride in back are treated well, with seats that both heat and massage. As for entertainment, Audi offers two 6.5-inch LCD displays, each hooked up to a six-disc DVD changer mounted in the trunk - that's handy? You'd think with all that room the engineers could have figured out how to integrate it into the cabin somewhere.