A Creator Who Continues to Challenge, and the Flagship of Flagships

Audi's flagship model is the 'A8'. The highest-tier saloon's high-performance variant is this 'S8'. In other words, it's the flagship of flagships. Incidentally, the 'S' designation in Audi signifies a special package incorporating a high-performance engine reflecting racing technology and the quattro all-wheel-drive system. Thus, the Audi S8 is the ultimate luxury sports saloon, merging luxury and pure sport at a high level.

For this feature, we invited Hideki Togi, a guest befitting the Audi S8. Descended from a family of Gagaku musicians spanning 1300 years since the Nara period, he is active as a Gagaku musician at the Imperial Household Agency's Music Department. In 1996, he debuted with his original first album 'Hideki Togi,' which showcased the essence of Gagaku. Since then, he has continuously released captivating music that bridges the traditional and the innovative, the East and the West. He is truly a creator who transcends genres and constantly challenges himself.

“That just happened to be the case later; I didn’t aim for it myself. This form was what came to me. However, I believe it’s possible because I have confidence in and always love the classics. At the same time, I like new things (laughs). If a new product comes out, I can’t rest until I’ve tried it. My daily life is like that, so perhaps old and new things naturally blend together.”

Balance Between Performance and Design is Key for Cars

Hideki Togi's unique style extends beyond music. He is known for his diverse hobbies, including horseback riding, clay pigeon shooting, illustration, photography, and collecting watches and model cars. Above all, he is a passionate car enthusiast who owns several vintage cars. Furthermore, he uses historically significant cars as his daily drivers without hesitation.

“Cars are tools. I believe they have value only when driven. The joy of handling them and their aesthetic appeal – in other words, the balance between performance and design – is important.”

He has participated in numerous classic car races, including the Mille Miglia in Italy, where he won the National Trophy for the highest-ranking Japanese participant. With this background, he produced the classic car race 'Rally Nippon,' held in October, as a committee member for the UNESCO Future Heritage Movement.

“When participating in the Mille Miglia, I’d feel a thrill, thinking, ‘Ah, I’ve performed here!’ at places like the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, but you just speed through. So, as a lesson from that, I thought, why not have a race where you don’t just pass through? The Mille Miglia is said to be the most beautiful race in the world, but I believe Japan can host a race that rivals it. Driving cars, which are symbols of civilization and the crystallization of human intellect, to re-examine Japan's history and traditional culture. I would be happy if it became such an event.”

A Sporting Spirit Even in Luxury Cars

He is also interested in modern cars equipped with the latest technology, not just classic cars.

“When I was a child, I would take apart wind-up toys and use only the mechanical parts to build other toys… I’ve always liked mechanical things. But I switch my mindset. After all, I want new cars to be comfortable (laughs).”
As he said this, Hideki Togi's eyes suddenly lit up as he sat in the driver's seat of the Audi S8.

“No matter how luxurious a car is, I seek a sporting spirit in it. The moment I sat down, that switch seemed to flip. The firm feel of the seat, the thoughtfully designed layout where everything you need is within reach even with your eyes closed…”

In a Tuxedo, or Without a Tie

The cockpit of the 'S8,' with its matte aluminum and carbon accents, is perhaps a bit more subdued than the 'A8,' but it conveys a refined and sporty impression. Furthermore, as Hideki Togi operated the MMI multimedia interface on the center console, he paid attention to the Bang & Olufsen sound system and the four-stage adjustable air suspension.

“Audi's image has changed in recent years. It's become more spirited. This car in particular harmoniously blends that sporty image with a sense of luxury. When I have passengers, I drive any sports car very carefully, but when I'm alone, I can drive recklessly (laughs). The S8 seems enjoyable for both occasions – escorting someone in a tuxedo, or driving home after loosening my tie.”

“OUT OF BORDER” – the title of an album released by Hideki Togi in '07. That is, not borderless, but understanding the boundaries clearly before leaping over them.

This phrase perfectly connects those who forge new eras.

TOGI Hideki

Gagaku musician. Debuted with 'Hideki Togi' (1986). Received the 15th Gold Disc Award for 'Gagaku' (2000) and the Japan Record Award for Planning for 'TOGISM2' (2000). He has received numerous Gold Disc Awards for other albums. Awarded the New Artist Prize by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology from the Agency for Cultural Affairs. His work includes music for TV programs, commercials, and stage productions. He has also achieved international recognition, performing at World Heritage sites such as Angkor Wat in Cambodia and the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi in Italy. He also demonstrates his multifaceted talent through illustrating picture books and appearing as Emperor Kōmei in the NHK historical drama 'Atsuhime.' His latest album is 'Hideki Togi / Earth Yo,' released on July 22, 2009.

Audi S8

The Audi S8 is equipped with a 5.2-liter V10 FSI engine that utilizes direct injection technology from the Audi R8, which has achieved five victories in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It generates ample torque from low RPMs, offering excellent acceleration and responsiveness, making it arguably Audi's most powerful vehicle to date. It features Audi's unique lightweight all-aluminum body, known as the Audi Space Frame. It is equipped with a sports adaptive air suspension developed exclusively for S models. The full-time four-wheel-drive system 'quattro' achieves sporty and dynamic driving by distributing torque with a front-to-rear bias of 40% to 60% during normal driving. Visually, the S8 differs from the A8 with its distinctive single-frame grille and air intakes, creating a dignified front face exclusive to S models. At the rear, it features a dedicated bumper and large-diameter tailpipes. The price is 15.1 million yen.

Audi Communication Center 0120-598106
http://www.audi.co.jp