AUDI A8

The latest A8 utilizes Audi's new, super-flexible "MLP" architecture. This is the same chassis used for the A4, A5 and the upcoming A7. The A8 sees extensive use of aluminum and magnesium in an effort to keep the large sedan's weight down.


Audi says the new A8 is the sportiest sedan in the segment, aided by a low center of gravity and the lowest roofline of any German rival. Despite adding two inches to the length, width and wheelbase -- and one additional inch of height -- Audi reckons handling has actually improved.



The 4.2-liter FSI V8 motor will continue on under the hood of the A8 with a few revisions and modest power bump. The 372 horsepower unit also promises reduced fuel consumption by 15 percent. Coupled to the motor is a new eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission with manual mode. Manual gear selection is available via steering wheel rockers or by using the regular gear selection lever.

The A8 will also feature the newest version of Quattro, which features torque vectoring. This distributes drive individually between each axle and between the rear wheels for improved traction and stability. An optional sport differential distributes power between the rear wheels for optimal performance under hard cornering.

The A8's multimedia interface (MMI) combines the standard (in the U.S.) navigation system with a touchpad. MMI touch enables the driver to control many functions intuitively such as inputting the navigation destination by writing the letters on the pad with the touch of a finger.

The MMI system can recognize complex scenarios and make anticipatory decisions to assist the driver. The new technologies include a night vision assist with marking of detected pedestrians, the Audi pre-sense safety system, as well as a speed limit display.

Another high-end solution on board the new A8 is full LED headlights, which use light emitting diodes for all light functions. They give the luxury sedan an unmistakable appearance even in daylight and even more so after the fall of darkness.

Combining the high-tech MMI system and LED headlights, Audi's navigation unit predicts the road ahead and adjusts the light pattern accordingly. This function will enable special output in highway settings, and even activate a cornering light for wider-angle illumination when entering an intersection.

On the safety front, Audi boasts 25 percent increased static torsional rigidity due to new welding technologies, which it claims lead to improved fuel economy and handling characteristics. The A8 also features Audi Braking Guard to warn drivers of potential impacts, as well as automatic emergency braking in the event of an unavoidable accident to minimize impact.