The Super-Saloon and the Sleeper
While the S8 often relegates the other two versions of the Audi A8 to the sidelines, they each offer their own tangible benefits.
The long-wheelbase A8L offers a dizzying array of luxury amenities, particularly for those fortunate enough to ride in the rear seat. These "backseat drivers" receive their own climate control system, DVD entertainment system with screens in the front seat headrests, and optional mini-refrigerator and power adjustable footrests.
While the driver of the A8L may not have much chance to experience this level of opulence, he or she can always be content with the intoxicating combination of a 12-cylinder engine, a lightweight chassis and quattro all-wheel drive.
The W12 engine displaces six litres and produces 450 horsepower, making the A8L just a shade slower than the S8 in terms of sheer acceleration. The suspension on the big saloon is, of course, not as sharp or responsive as in the S8, but that's understandable given the purpose of such a grand limousine.
On the other end of the scale is the "regular" Audi A8. Although it's only powered by a 4.2-litre V8 (350 hp) and it doesn't have a rear-seat refrigerator, the A8 is nevertheless a very satisfying car to drive. As with the other versions, the A8 is extremely light on its feet and more than capable of carving turns well in excess of 200 km/h. It's composed and well-mannered in every conceivable driving scenario and simply a joy to drive.
Decision Time
In the final analysis, it's little surprise that the 2008 Audi A8 line is so well crafted. This is, after all, the flagship model from a manufacturer that produces clear winners such as the A3, TT and R8. So, the question isn't whether the A8, A8L and S8 are desirable, it's how they stack up compared to the luxo-sedan competition from the likes of BMW, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz.
Until the final pricing for the new line is announced (expected some time in November 2007), this is difficult to tell for certain. But an educated guess would have the new Audi fleet giving the competition everything they can handle and more.
Sleek, understated styling
Quattro all-wheel drive
The wickedly quick S8
The truly opulent A8L
Lightweight steering
Base A8 seems dull by comparison
You can't drive and sit in the back of the A8L at the same time
photo:Mark Hacking, Audi
While the S8 often relegates the other two versions of the Audi A8 to the sidelines, they each offer their own tangible benefits.
The long-wheelbase A8L offers a dizzying array of luxury amenities, particularly for those fortunate enough to ride in the rear seat. These "backseat drivers" receive their own climate control system, DVD entertainment system with screens in the front seat headrests, and optional mini-refrigerator and power adjustable footrests.
 |
| Opulence is the key word when describing the interior. |
While the driver of the A8L may not have much chance to experience this level of opulence, he or she can always be content with the intoxicating combination of a 12-cylinder engine, a lightweight chassis and quattro all-wheel drive.
The W12 engine displaces six litres and produces 450 horsepower, making the A8L just a shade slower than the S8 in terms of sheer acceleration. The suspension on the big saloon is, of course, not as sharp or responsive as in the S8, but that's understandable given the purpose of such a grand limousine.
On the other end of the scale is the "regular" Audi A8. Although it's only powered by a 4.2-litre V8 (350 hp) and it doesn't have a rear-seat refrigerator, the A8 is nevertheless a very satisfying car to drive. As with the other versions, the A8 is extremely light on its feet and more than capable of carving turns well in excess of 200 km/h. It's composed and well-mannered in every conceivable driving scenario and simply a joy to drive.
Decision Time
In the final analysis, it's little surprise that the 2008 Audi A8 line is so well crafted. This is, after all, the flagship model from a manufacturer that produces clear winners such as the A3, TT and R8. So, the question isn't whether the A8, A8L and S8 are desirable, it's how they stack up compared to the luxo-sedan competition from the likes of BMW, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz.
Until the final pricing for the new line is announced (expected some time in November 2007), this is difficult to tell for certain. But an educated guess would have the new Audi fleet giving the competition everything they can handle and more.
 |
Quattro all-wheel drive
The wickedly quick S8
The truly opulent A8L
 |
Lightweight steering
Base A8 seems dull by comparison
 |
You can't drive and sit in the back of the A8L at the same time
photo:Mark Hacking, Audi
Article Gallery