The Audi A8 remains the brand's largest and most prestigious sedan, also boasting some of the most impressive technology of any car on the market. The A8 also boasts some of the most ambitious technology of any car on the market, as well as being a striking and imposing vehicle. It's definitely a car to be seen in.
What's New for 2015
2015 models get a moderate facelift, mostly in the form of new LED headlights and a revised grille. The 4.0T models get a 15 horsepower bump to 435, and there are new wheels across the range. A head-up display is now available, as is the Night Vision assist system that now detects animals. Active lane assist and side assist are also options.
Choosing Your Audi A8
The Audi A8 is defined primarily by the engine under its hood, and there are four to choose from:
3.0 T
The A8 3.0T comes standard with a 3-liter supercharged V6 with 340 horsepower, an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive, all available with the standard wheelbase or long-wheelbase A8 L.
It might be an entry-level model, but buyers will find a lavish list of standard equipment. Features include a dual-zone automatic climate control, paddle shifters, sunroof, power rear sunshade, LED ambient lighting, 18-way power front seats, heated front seats, full LED headlights and taillights, power-folding side mirrors, headlamp washers, soft-close doors, and Audi's MMI system to control the 14-speaker Bose surround sound system with a 7-inch color display, navigation with Audi Connect, satellite radio and traffic, Bluetooth audio and iPod interface.
There are still plenty of options, though. They include the Premium Package with a head-up display, ventilated front seats with massage, 22-way power front seats, top-view camera and Audi side assist and Pre Crash. The Luxury Package goes further with Valcona leather seats and extended leather trim, dual-pane glass, Alcantara headliner and sport seats. A Cold Weather Package adds a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats. The Warm Weather Package adds a four-zone climate control and power rear side sunshades. The Driver Assistance Package includes active lane assist and side assist, automatic high beams and adaptive cruise control with stop and go function. The Sport Plus Pack includes 20-inch wheels and dynamic steering system. Other options include the Night Vision assist system, solar sunroof and rear entertainment system with two 10-inch screens.
4.0 T
The 4.0T includes a 4-liter turbocharged V8 with 435 horsepower, and comes in standard- and long-wheelbase L variants. Options include the Premium Package, Luxury Package, Cold Weather Package, Warm Weather Package, Driver Assistance and Sport Plus packages, as well as NIght Vision, solar sunroof, rear entertainment and a $6,300 Bang & Olufsen audio system with 10 speakers and 1400 watts.
3.0TDI L
The 3.0TDI L comes only in long-wheelbase form, with a 3-liter turbo-diesel V6 making 240 horsepower. Options include the Premium Package, Luxury Package, Driver Assistance Package and Sport Plus Package. The Rear Seat Comfort Package adds power rear seats, four-zone climate control and front and rear ventilated and massage seats. Other options include a panoramic sunroof, Bang & Olufsen audio, rear seat entertainment and the Night Vision assist system.
W12
While every version of the A8 is luxurious, the W12 is the top. It features a 12-cylinder engine with 500 horsepower. Standard equipment includes the dual-pane glass, panoramic roof, four-zone climate control, 22-way power front seats, ventilated front and rear seats and rear-seat entertainment system. Full-leather interior is optional, as is a sports package, Driver Assistance pack, Nigh Vision and Bang & Olufsen audio. The Executive Rear Seat Comfort Package adds power footrest, heated steering wheel and cooler box.
The TDI makes for effortless progress and cruising, while returning fuel economy ratings of 24/36 mpg. It doesn't have the outright power of the gasoline engines, but few will miss it.