Audi A8
Audi A8
Audi A8

2016 Audi A8 L

2016 A8

Pros: Limousine-like rear-seat accommodations in A8 L models; broad choice of powertrains, including the smooth, refined diesel-engine model; posh interior appointments

Cons: Ride quality isn’t as absorbent as might be expected of a large luxury sedan; steep prices; Audi’s MMI controls are complicated and inconveniently located

CG Says: Audi has discontinued the short-wheelbase version of the A8 for 2016. The only remaining short-wheelbase model is the high-performance S8 Plus. The horsepower of the S8’s turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 increases from 520 to 605. The line-topping A8 L W12 has a 500-horsepower 6.3-liter W12 engine. EPA estimates for the W12 are 14 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. All models of A8 and S8 now have standard dual-pane acoustical glass. The A8 (along with its S8 high-performance sibling) more than holds its own in the premium large-car class, which is home to some truly regal machines. The A8 delivers first-class cabin accommodations and passenger space (especially in extended-length “L” form). The impressive diesel-engine model delivers better economy and impressive long-range cruising capabilities with very little compromise in luxury or power. Our quibbles with the A8 include a ride that can be a bit stiffer and less polished than the best in this class, and the less-than-ideal layout and complicated functionality of the MMI control system.

The Facts
Class Premium Large Car
Body Style(s) 4-door sedan
Passenger Count 5
Drive Wheels all-wheel drive
Manufacturer Audi
Nation of Manufacture Germany
Base Prices A8 L 3.0T: $81,500
A8 L 3.0 TDI: $85,200
A8 L 4.0T: $90,500
A8 L W12 6.3: $137,900
S8 Plus 4.0T: $114,900

Base Engine
supercharged 3.0-liter V6
Horsepower
333
Std. Transmission
8-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
19
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
29

Optional Engine
turbodiesel 3.0-liter V6
Horsepower
240
Std. Transmission
8-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
24
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
36

Optional Engine
turbocharged 4.0-liter V8
Horsepower
435 (605 in S8 Plus)
Std. Transmission
8-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
15-18
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
25-29

news-2013-audi-a8l-w12-exterior-001
2016 Audi A8 L W12
Audi A8 S8
2016 Audi S8 Plus
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