Pros: Limousine-like rear-seat accommodations in A8 L models; 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: For 2017, Audi A8 drops its diesel- and W12-powered models. Otherwise, A8 is relatively unchanged. A redesigned A8 is expected for the 2018 model year. A8 is a premium large sedan with seating for five. S8 is a sport version of A8 that rides on a shorter wheelbase. The base engine is a 333-horsepower supercharged V6. A turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 develops 435 hp in A8 and 605 hp in the high-performance S8. All engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic and all have all-wheel drive. Available features include front and rear heated/ventilated/massaging seats, quad-zone automatic climate controls, LED headlights, DVD player, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, collision warning, and blind-spot alert. 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. 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.
| 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: $82,500 A8 L 4.0T: $91,500 S8 Plus 4.0T: $115,900 |
| Base Engine supercharged 3.0-liter V6 (A8 L 3.0T) |
| Horsepower 333 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 19 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 29 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 (A8 L 4.0T, S8 Plus) |
| Horsepower 435 (605 in S8 Plus) |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 15-18 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 24-29 |
ROAD TESTS AND ADDITIONAL INFO
2017 Los Angeles Auto Show: 2019 Audi A8
