High-Tech Headlights

The Audi "A8" competes with models such as the Mercedes-Benz "New S-Class | Mercedes-BenzS-Class" and the BMW "7 Series", and the Jaguar "XJ", a large sedan exceeding five meters in length. The lightweight construction, achieved through the use of an aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF) chassis, is carried over to the new model. The "A8 3.0 TFSI" with its V6 engine weighs 1,830 kg, with the body alone accounting for just 231 kg.

The new model's dimensions remain unchanged: a length of 5.14 meters, width of 1.95 meters, height of 1.46 meters, and a wheelbase of 2.99 meters, identical to theprevious model. The long-wheelbase version, denoted by "L" in the model name, is also 13 cm longer, just as before.

Externally, a significant change is visible in the headlights, whose lower edge has transitioned from a wavy line to a straight one. In Germany, these headlights feature standard LEDs for V8 engine models, with an optional "Matrix LED Technology" available.

ThisMatrix LED technologyconsists of a cluster of 25 diodes per unit. Using a forward-facing camera, it selectively deactivates illumination in areas that would otherwise dazzle oncoming traffic when the high beams are active. This allows for constant high-beam visibility at night without causing glare, thereby enhancing safety. It also incorporates a cornering light function that illuminates ahead of curves in conjunction with the navigation system.

Other exterior updates, excluding the S8, include the shift from dual round exhaust pipes to a flattened dual-pipe design, and chrome and gloss black window frames. The body is available in 21 colors, including five newly introduced options. Wheels up to 21 inches are supported.




In Germany, the A8 is offered with a choice of four powertrains: two gasoline and two diesel engines. The gasoline options include the "3.0 TFSI" V6 turbo, producing a maximum output of 228 kW (310 hp), and a V8 engine for the "4.0 TFSI" with a maximum output of 320 kW (435 hp). The diesel range features the "3.0 TDI" and "4.2 TDI," with maximum outputs of 190 kW (258 hp) and 283 kW (385 hp), respectively.

All engines, including the diesel variants, comply with Euro 6 emissions standards. The 3.0 TDI, offering the best fuel economy, emits 155g/km of CO2. Furthermore, the V8 models feature cylinder deactivation technology, which shuts down half the cylinders during low-load driving to improve fuel efficiency.

All A8 and S8 models are equipped with an 8-speed Tiptronic transmission.

Three Derivative Models

Additionally, the A8 lineup includes three other derivative models.




Finally, the "A8 Hybrid" combines an electric motor with its gasoline engine. The 2.0 TFSI engine is paired with an electric motor generating a maximum output of 180 kW (245 hp), delivering a combined system torque of up to 480 Nm. It features a lithium-ion battery in the rear and can reach speeds of up to 100 km/h on electric power alone, with a range of approximately 3 km. Its fuel consumption is 6.3 L/100km, with CO2 emissions of 147g/km, making it the most fuel-efficient in the A8 lineup.

These three models employ an active noise-canceling system that generates anti-phase noise to counteract any sound intrusion during cylinder deactivation, ensuring exceptional cabin quietness.

Deliveries Begin in Germany in November

As befits a flagship model, the latest safety features are incorporated. These include adaptive cruise control with stop & go functionality, side assist that warns of approaching vehicles in adjacent lanes during lane changes, Audi active lane assist which automatically applies corrective steering to prevent unintended lane departure, a 360-degree park assist system with a visual display, and a head-up display that projects information onto the windshield for the driver without requiring eye movement.

Deliveries in Germany are scheduled to commence in November. Pricing is expected to be similar to the current model, starting at 74,500 Euros.