The Audi A8 has long been the flagship sedan model and is all new for the 2011 model year. Now better equipped than ever before and ready to take on the BMW and Mercedes models, the A8 is loaded up with all the rich features that you would expect of a luxury sedan. The A8 even has a high tech information center that makes use of inputs from a touchpad located on the center console. This system can show you all sort of information about your vehicle, surrounding traffic and can even plot out your trip on the built in gps navigation system.
The new body style is larger than previous models, but the all aluminum frame allows for an almost even trade off in weight. The base models engine is now a 4.2 L V-8 giving 372 HP and over 320 foot pounds of torque. When this high powered engine is parred with the Audi Quattro all wheel drive system, you have a match made in heaven. The A8 offers a long wheel base option to allow for more luxury and lounge space.
The Range
Bodystyles: Sedan
Engines: 4.2L V-8, 6.3L W-12
Transmissions: 8-speed automatic
Models: Normal Wheel Base, Long Wheel Base, S8
What's New
The 2011 Audi A8 is all-new and launches with a revised 4.2L V-8 engine that produces 372 horsepower and 328 lb-ft of torque and now features direct injection. Despite adding a number of high-tech features, the new A8 is roughly 15 pounds lighter than the car it replaces. The latest iteration of Audi's impressive MMI infotainment system features a touch pad for data entry and a navigation system that interfaces with the transmission and adaptive cruise control to maximize efficiency based on upcoming changes in the road.
Exterior
Evolution, not revolution, is the mantra of the 2011 Audi A8's styling. Some may find it too conservative, but it can also be seen as subtle and understated. Curvaceous sheet metal gets more creases and Audi's signature LED lights abound.
Interior
Premium leather and soft touch materials are standard fare for the A8, as is navigation with a pop-out screen and the new MMI Touch system. A 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo system is optional.
A power driver's seat is standard across the range, as is air conditioning, cruise control and an AM/FM/Satellite radio with CD player and MP3 connectivity. The trunk is large, with a capacity of 15.1cu-ft.
Performance & Handling
The 2011 Audi A8 will launch with a single engine option, an updated version of Audi's 4.2L V-8 that now produces 372 hp and 328 lb-ft of torque and is also more fuel efficient, thanks in part to direct injection. In the spring of 2011, Audi will add an updated W-12 engine with 500 hp and 460 lb-ft. Either way, power is transmitted to the ground through a new 8-speed automatic transmission and Audi's superb quattro all-wheel drive system.
Safety
Per Federal law, driver and passenger front airbags will be standard, and front passenger side impact thorax bags are likely, as are front and rear head curtain bags. Dynamic safety devices include standard Traction Control, and Stability Control.
EPA Fuel Economy
A8, A8 L: 17 mpg city/27 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Great handling
- Powerful engines
- Loaded with technology
- Supreme luxury
- Plush ride
You Won't Like
- Vague steering
- Keeps getting bigger
- Conservative styling
Sum Up
Aimed high, executed higher
If You Like This Vehicle
- BMW 7 Series
- Mercedes-Benz S-Class
- Lexus LS
- Hyundai Equus