2021 Audi A8

Pros: Roomy interior; abundant power; premium trappings

Cons: Pricey option packages drive up bottom line; limited trim options

CG Says: The 2021 Audi A8 adds ventilated front seats and topview camera to the standard equipment list. Audi’s flagship sedan was redesigned for 2019 on an aluminum-intensive platform. The base powertrain is a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 combined with 48-volt mild hybrid system for a total of 335 hp. Also available is a 453-hp twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8. A plug-in hybrid A8 TFSI e combines a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with an electric motor for a combined 443 horsepower. The high-performance S8 is powered by a 563-hp twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8. An 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are standard in all models. Also standard is an adaptive air suspension; all-wheel steering is available. An MMI control system utilizes two touch screens with haptic feedback. A Driver Assistance Package includes intersection-assist system that helps reduce the possibility of a collision with crossing traffic; Traffic Jam Assist that brakes, accelerates, and steers within a selected lane at low speeds; and lane-keep assist. An Executive Rear Seat Comfort Package includes a power deploying footrest with foot massage and folding tables in the center console. The Audi A8’s 2019 redesign brought it subtly updated styling, a strong yet reasonably economical powertrain, and a host of high-tech new features. As before, the interior is posh, spacious, and inviting in an understated way. However, the A8’s redesigned infotainment system doesn’t make any great strides in clarity and ease of use over its predecessor.