The segment of luxury saloons and representation is a commercial niche reserved for a few privileged units. Within the category, Audi A8 It is the representative model of the German brand. It belongs to the F segment. The origin of the model dates back to 1994, when the 200 series was renamed A8, debuting the new nomenclature that has remained unchanged to this day.
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Test Audi A8 60 TFSIe quattro 449 CV PHEVTest Audi A8, at the wheel of technology, comfort and luxuryIt has always been the technological showcase of the brand, with the most advanced infotainment, lighting and innovative motorization technologies. Throughout the years that it has been for sale, they have been commercialized three generations, with a fourth that began sales in 2018 and was subsequently updated in the last quarter of 2021.
Technical characteristics of the Audi A8
The fourth generation of the Audi A8 uses the Volkswagen Group's MLB evo modular platform. Unlike the Audi A1 o Audi A3, the A8 places its thrusters longitudinally rather than transversely. In addition, it uses its largest format, as it is considered a representation model belonging to the luxury segment. Thanks to this structure, Audi fragments the A8 units into two, two bodies; one long and one short.
It is currently the largest model in the house. In its shortest form, the Audi A8 shows measurements that go up to 5,19 meters long, 1,94 meters wide and 1,47 meters high for a wheelbase set at 2,99 meters. The A8 L, meanwhile, grows to 5,32 meters long, 1,94 meters wide and 1,49 meters high for a 3,13 meter wheelbase.
Although it is a sedan, Audi proposes various configurations for the interior. The rear bench seat can be transformed into a business-type space for just two passengers, reducing interior roominess from five to four occupants. Regarding load capacity, the Audi A8 offers a boot volume of at least 505 liters, a figure that can be reduced to 390 liters if we talk about plug-in hybrid versions.
Mechanical range and gearboxes of the Audi A8
One of the sections in which the 2021 renewal has turned has been in the offer of more sustainable propellants. European regulations require increasingly efficient mechanics, and Audi has chosen to electrify a range that revolves around two unique versions. An access diesel, a plug-in hybrid and a high-power gasoline identified by the designation S8. All units have all-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
As the access model to the range is offered the A8 50 TDI quattro tiptronic. It offers a block of six cylinders in vee with 2.967 cubic centimeters of displacement. It develops 286 horsepower and 600 Nm of torque.. It has an MHEV system with which it manages to certify the ECO label. A 48-volt auxiliary electrical scheme that does not affect performance, but does manage to reduce official consumption.
The PHEV version that arrives under the name 60 eTFSI quattro tiptronic. It consists of a V6 gasoline engine and a coupled electric motor. The set develops a maximum power of 449 horsepower and 700 Nm of torque, homologating an electric autonomy of 44 kilometers. The most powerful is S8 with 571 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque thanks to a turbocharged 8-liter V4.
Equipment of the Audi A8
How could it be otherwise, the Audi A8 is established as the flagship of the firm with the four rings. It is its most luxurious and advanced model, presenting unique technologies. Inside, a high quality sensation is transmitted thanks to noble materials. like leather and wood. All this is completed with cutting-edge technology and high rolling quality.
The range of finishes of the A8 is slightly different from that offered in the rest of the company's models. Externally, two finishes are offered: base and S Line, giving this a somewhat sportier touch. The great sedan is always committed to luxury in all its formats, enjoying many chrome elements. For the interior, different packages are offered: Exclusive, Comfort and S Line.
As if this wasn't enough, the A8 is the only one of the house to be eligible for Horch's customization and luxury program. In terms of equipment, we are talking about one of the most complete sedans on the market. They stand out: laser headlights, digital instrumentation, massage seats, television system, rear seat with comfort position, power door closing, pneumatic suspension and the most complete safety equipment and driving assistants.
The Audi A8 in video
The Audi A8 of Km 0 and second hand
Over the years the Audi A8 has earned a well-deserved reputation for durability, comfort and quality. Its different generations have always managed to be among the best sellers in the category. Thanks to this, the offer available in alternative sales channels is wide, with several hundred models available. Due to its popularity, the depreciation value is low, around 18%, placing it in a standard term within the category.
If we take a look at the used or second-hand market, we discover that the cheapest units correspond to the first of their generations, the end of the 90s and the beginning of the 2000s. The amounts start in figures close to 2.000 euros for models with more than 200.000 kilometers. As we enter a new generation the cost increases. In the Km 0 channel, the offer is limited as it is a product that is customarily ordered from the factory under specific specifications.
Rivals of the Audi A8
The Audi A8 is part of the segment of super luxury saloons that exceed 5 meters in length. In this market niche the competition is not very high, although the rivals in the registered have strong arguments against the Audi model. The main rivals against which the A8 fights are the Lexus LS, BMW Serie 7, Maserati Quattroporte, Jaguar XJ, Porsche Panamera, o Mercedes-Benz S-Class. All of them are similar in concept, size, qualities and prices, being the Audi one of the most popular in sales.
Highlight
- Quality of finishes
- Technological and security equipment
- ride comfort
To improve
- Plug-in hybrid boot size
- Reduced mechanical range
- High-priced trim options
Audi A8 prices
The price of an A8 is not cheap. We are talking about the flagship of the house. A model of representation that exceeds the barrier of 100 thousand euros. In the cheapest of cases the Audi A8 has a starting price of 111.680 euros, without offers or promotions. That amount corresponds to a model of short wheelbase and access diesel mechanics. The most expensive of the family is the 8-horsepower Audi S571. Its starting price is 170.450 euros, without offers or promotions.
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