2018 Audi A8
What's New?
The 2018 Audi A8 adds an Executive Package, which includes 20-inch alloy wheels, a full suite of driver-assistance features, ventilated and massaging front seats, heated rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a four-spoke steering wheel equipped with paddle shifters. Upper level trims also add rear lumbar support. 20- and 21-inch wheels are now available on the Black Optics package.
Overview
Sleek and powerful without being flashy, the Audi A8 is known for being the most understated of ultra-luxury German sedans. This year, the Audi A8 comes with 333 and 450 horsepower (depending o whether you opt for the V6 or available V8 powertrain). Standard features include 19-inch alloy wheels, full LED headlights, four-zone climate control, leather upholstery, a Bose® premium sound system, Audi's MMI® system with navigation and a 7.0-inch screen, keyless entry and start, and a rearview camera. Bluetooth® connectivity, Audi Drive Select, and heated front seats also come standard.
There are also myriad available options to choose from. Drivers can upgrade their wheels to 21-inch alloy, and they can opt for a heads-up display, panoramic roof, night vision assistant, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and power-adjustable rear seats. Whatever features you decide on—and there are many—you can be confident that you're receiving the utmost in luxury and performance.
The 2018 Audi A8 starts at $82,500 MSRP.*
The Perfect Ride for…
The driver looking for one of the best luxury sedans money can buy. Your friends may have 7-series and S-classes, but you're your own person. Different. Unique. You admire the subtlety of the German-engineered A8 but also value the finer things in life. Thankfully, the A8 drips in both luxury and performance. A voluptuous interior, cutting-edge design, and a potent powerplant combine to offer a vehicle with breathtaking features and thrilling performance.
Drive & Handling
The Audi A8 can be had with one of three engines, each of which provides the requisite performance and character one expects from an Audi.
First up is the supercharged 3.0-liter V6. It produces 333 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. The second option is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo eight cylinder, which is rated at 450 horsepower and 444 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are paired exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
EPA estimates stand at 22 combined mpg for the 3.0-liter, 19 combined mpg for the 4-liter.** Whatever option you choose, you'll be greeted with a dominant engine that also does well on fuel economy.
Key Features
Audi Pre Sense®
Audi's aim in the A8 is to provide the most comfortable, thrilling experience a luxury vehicle can provide. Part of that formula includes keeping you safe, even in the most unpredictable of circumstances. If a critical situation is detected, Audi pre sense® goes to great lengths to keep you safe. The system, for example, will close all windows and the sunroof, tighten safety belts, and adjust seats. Pre sense® also provides four levels of braking assistance, from an audible notification to full-on brake assistance.
Head-up Display
While the A8 and all other Audi vehicles go to great lengths to keep you safe, the automaker doesn't always have control over the driver. That's why it introduced the revolutionary head-up display–to keep your eyes on the road. The head-up display utilizes a system of mirrors to project customizable driver-related information on the windshield. The system ensures you keep your head up and that your eyes stay focused on the road.
Alternative Options
The midsized Audi A6 sedan may be smaller than the A8 but it is no less impressive when it comes to performance credentials. Nimble in the city and powerful out of town, the A6 possesses an engine lineup that sets it apart from the competition. If what you admire about the 2018 Audi A8 are its spaciousness and size, perhaps the Audi Q5 is better suited to your needs. The Q5 boasts a 252-horsepower turbocharged engine while offering ample room for passengers, or if you happen to take a weekend trip, you'll have plenty of cargo space to tote your luggage and a couple of passengers.
Gallery
*Starting MSRP of $82,500 for a 2018 A8 L 3.0 TFSI® with automatic transmission. European model shown. 2018 Audi A8 L features will vary. Prices exclude $975 destination, taxes, title, other options and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.
**All figures are EPA estimates. Actual mileage may vary.
Image Credit: Audi