S8

The S8 is the most powerful A8 model in the range with a 4.0l V8 engine producing 571PS. The S8 comes with a high specification as standard including 20’’ x 8.5J ‘5-double-spoke’ style cast alloy wheels, Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System and Alcantara headlining. The S8 also boasts outstanding driving dynamics thanks to its predictive active suspension system and dynamic all wheel steering. This allows the S8 to turn into a luxury saloon or a sports car at the press of a button.

Wheels

► 20" '5-double-spoke' style cast alloy wheels (with 265/40 R20 tyres)

► Anti-theft wheel bolts and wheel loosening detection

Performance and suspension

► Predictive Active suspension

► Dynamic all-wheel steering

► quattro® all-wheel drive with sports differential

► Audi Drive Select

► 48 volt Mild Hybrid

Lighting

► HD Matrix headlights with dynamic turn signal      

► Audi Beam

Exterior

► Aluminium exterior mirrors, electrically adjustable, heated, folding and automatically dimming with memory function and integrated LED indicator

► Black brake callipers

► Radiator grille and side front air inlets in Titan black

► Power-operated tailgate

► Windscreen with acoustic glazing

► Side and rear windows with heat-insulating glass

Seats

► Front sports seats in Valcona leather

► 22-way electrically adjustable seats with memory function

► 4-way electric lumbar support for front seats

► Heated front and rear seats

► 3-seat rear bench with centre armrest

Inlays

► Upper inlays in Piano Black finish

Interior equipment

► Power door closing

► Twin-spoke leather multi-function steering wheel with shift paddles

► 2-zone automatic air conditioning

► Alcantara headlining in Black

► Multi-coloured Extended Interior Lighting Pack

► Reading lights

► Glove compartment cooling

► Comfort front centre armrest

► Comfort rear headrests

► Sun visors with illuminated vanity mirror on driver and front passenger side

► Front and rear floor mats

► Leather gear lever

► Leather pack, fine nappa leather extended to the centre console, armrests in the doors and air bag cover on the steering wheel

Audio and communication

► MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touch

•  10.1” colour display (top screen)

•  3D city models with realistic building texture and road lane illustration for selected cities

•  Country-specific information

•  Online map updates - (includes 5 free updates)

•  Detailed route information

•  Personal route assistance

•  8.6” full HD touch screen (bottom screen)

•  Haptic touch

► Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus

► Audi Phone Box with wireless charging

► DVD player

► Audi Connect Infotainment Services - (36-month subscription)

► Audi Connect Safety and Service (e-call)

► Audi Smartphone Interface†

► Bang and Olufsen Sound System

► Audi Music Interface - 2 USB-C ports with charge and data functions

► MMI Radio Plus

► DAB digital radio

Driver assistance

► Adaptive Cruise Assist

► Head-up display

► Lane departure warning including emergency assist

► Rear-view camera

► Parking System Plus

► Advanced key

► Audi Pre-sense Basic

► Audi Pre-sense Front

► Camera-based traffic sign recognition

► Tyre-pressure warning light

► Park Assist with Parking Aid Plus

Safety and security

► Front and rear side airbags

► First aid kit with warning triangle

► ISOFIX child seat mounting for outer rear seats

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S8 Vorsprung

The Vorsprung trim is the pinnacle of Audi's range. It comes with the highest standard specification and luxury. On the S8, this includes Audi Laser lights, which illuminate the road ahead. And for passengers, Vorsprung on the Normal Wheelbase comes with rear Electric Sun-blinds, 4 Zone Climate control and Rear Seat Remote, so your passengers can relax and enjoy the journey in luxury.

In addition to the base trim, Vorsprung comes with:

Wheels
► 21" x 9.0J Audi Sport cast aluminium '10-Y-spoke' Evo style in black, diamond-turned alloy wheels (with 265/35 R21 tyres)

Lighting
► HD Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light and OLED rear lights  
► Adaptive windscreen wipers with integrated washer jets

Exterior
► Audi Beam with 'Vorsprung' illuminated text
► Panoramic glass sunroof
► Black Styling pack

Seats
► Front seat ventilation with massage function
► Heated front and rear seats

Interior inlays
► Upper inlays in Carbon Vector

Interior equipment
► Extended leather pack
► Carbon gear lever
► Alcantara headling
► Air quality pack
► 4-zone climate control
► Rear sear remote
► Audi Music Interface in the rear
► Matrix reading lights

Driver Assistance
► Cross traffic assist, front
► Audi pre sense, rear
► Audi Side assist
► Park Assist Plus

The new Audi S8 combines progressive luxury with dynamic athleticism while honing its reputation as the benchmark for Vorsprung durch Technik with innovative suspension systems. Its 4.0 TFSI engine – a biturbo eight-cylinder unit – produces 571 hp and an opulent 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque.

Combined fuel consumption 20.6–20.8  mpg; combined CO2 emissions 418.4–415.2 g/mi. It is combined with MHEV technology for the perfect symbiosis of efficiency and comfort with exhilarating performance. The predictive active suspension, dynamic-all wheel steering and quattro drive with sport differential provide for outstanding vehicle dynamics straight from the factory. The new Audi S8 uses specific design elements to express the sporty elegance of the sophisticated luxury sedan with pinpoint precision.

A V8 engine with mild hybrid technology, the high-performance power plant in the Audi S8 offers not only maximum smoothness, but with an output of 571hp and 800 Nm of torque, the twin turbochargers certainty provide ample power is available for any situation. Top speed is electronically limited to 155.3 mph, it takes just 3.8 seconds to accelerate from 0-62 mph. Iron-lined cylinder barrels in the aluminium crankcase reduce friction for exceptionally smooth running.

Automatically actuated flaps in the exhaust system underscore the impressive sound. Sports car-level emotion and performance are paired with comfort and efficiency. The mild hybrid system (MHEV) works continuously to reduce fuel consumption. Its 48-volt belt alternator starter and the additional lithium-ion battery enable coasting with the engine switched off, fast restart and an extended start-stop range. Fuel savings of up to 0.8 litres per 100 kilometres are possible in everyday driving. The cylinder on demand system, which deactivates individual cylinders in low-load operating situations, provides for additional efficiency. The vehicle’s sound system features active noise cancellation to eliminate intrusive cabin noise for the ultimate in comfort.

Active suspension, dynamic all-wheel steering, and quattro with sport differential. The unique combination of innovative suspension components enables the flagship to cover the entire range from the velvety cruising of a luxury sedan to the dynamically taut handing of a sports car. The new S8 comes standard with the predictive active suspension. The high-tech system, which works in combination with the air suspension, can lift or push down each wheel separately via electromechanical actuators. It is therefore possible for the first time to actively control the trim of the body in any driving situation and thus greatly reduce pitch or roll during acceleration or braking. The front camera, which detects larger road surface irregularities, enables this to be done predictively.

The new Audi S8 can be a highly comfortable luxury sedan or a truly dynamic sports car – it’s entirely up to the driver. The Audi drive select system offers five profiles from which to choose. “Comfort +” mode is a new profile. It makes even cornering a comfortable experience: The body leans into curves by as much as 3 degrees to reduce the lateral acceleration acting on the occupants. In “dynamic” mode, the S8 turns in precisely. The maximum roll angle during fast cornering is just roughly 2.5 degrees. With the standard suspension, it is around 5 degrees. The situational distribution of roll moments enables self steering that is neutral or minimally oversteering. The position of the S8’s body can be altered even when it is stationary. It is quickly raised by as much as 50 mm when the door handle is actuated, making getting into the car even easier and more comfortable.

The Audi S8 is redefining the limits of physical possibility thanks to the dynamic-all-wheel steering. This allows the independent adjustment of the steering angles at the front and rear axles. It therefore combines direct, sporty steering response at low and medium speeds with supreme stability on the highway and a tight turning circle, thus resolving a long-standing conflict of objectives. The sport differential actively transfers torque between the rear wheels during fast cornering. When turning into or accelerating in a curve, most is directed to the outside wheel. This literally pushes the car into the curve and nips any hint of understeer in the bud. In the case of oversteer, the sport differential on the rear axle transfers the drive torque to the inside wheel to stabilise the S8 Dynamic all-wheel steering, the sport differential and the predictive active suspension are all standard equipment.

The interplay of these systems is unique in its class and ensures composed and sporty handling in all situations. You have the option of choosing high-performance brake discs made from carbon fibre ceramic. They have a diameter of 420 mm at the front axle and 370 mm at the rear axle. The ceramic brake discs are internally ventilated and low-wear. Including the brake callipers, the ceramic brake system is also 9.6 kilograms lighter than the standard brake system with brake discs made from cast iron. Each of the front callipers has ten pistons.

The progressive, elegantly flowing exterior design of the model series gets some new accents with the new Audi S8. Bold interior and exterior design elements finely hone the sporty character. Wheels up to 21 inches in diameter are available for the 5.18 meter long sports sedan. Details on the front bumper, side sills and the exterior mirror housings as well as the two S-typical twin oval exhaust tailpipes emphasise the car’s sporty and progressive character. The black styling package is also available as an option. With this, all chrome elements – right down to the tailpipe trims – come in high-gloss black.

You can choose from nine sophisticated colour and design worlds, including the Audi design selection pastel silver, for the spacious interior, which conveys the relaxed atmosphere of a luxurious lounge. Here the upper inlay – new and available exclusively in the Audi S8 – is made of Carbon Vector and impresses with a special 3D depth effect. Directly below that is an inlay of dark, brushed matt aluminium. Lighting options range up to HD matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light andOLED rear lights.

Every detail of the new Audi S8 reflects its character as a sporty luxury model. One particular highlight are the standard comfort customised contour seats in sport look. They feature wide ranging power adjustment, pneumatically adjustable side bolsters and separate three-stage heating for each seat. What is more, they are optionally available with ventilation and massage functions. You can choose between the top leather grades Valcona and Unikat. The rear seats also offer numerous features for outstanding comfort and provide for a first-class atmosphere in the Audi S8.

The 38 driver assistance systems that Audi provides for the new S8 are divided into the City and Tour packages. Adaptive cruise assist – the central system in the “Tour” package – stands out among the comprehensive range of assist systems. It combines the functions of adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist and lane tracking. In conjunction with predictive efficiency assist, adaptive cruise assist brakes and accelerates the Audi S8 in anticipation of the conditions ahead. In the City assist package, Audi pre sense side joins the systems pre sense front and pre sense rear to create Audi pre sense 360°. If the system detects an impending side impact, it can operate together with the predictive active suspension to instantly raise the body by as much as 80 mm. This brings the sill into a better position to absorb the impact energy, mitigating the potential consequences of the accident for the occupants.

The brain behind the driver assistance systems in the new S8 is a high-performance processing unit, the central driver assistance controller (zFAS). It continuously computes a differentiated model of the vehicle’s surroundings based on the data provided by the sensors. Fully equipped, there are five radar sensors, six cameras, twelve ultrasound sensors and a laser scanner onboard.

The new Audi S8 offers a progressive technology experience with new digital services and state-of-the-art connectivity. The MMI touch response operating concept is fully digital. The driver controls nearly all functions via two large displays. The driver can also use natural speech control, which offers virtually unlimited freedom when formulating questions and commands. The answers are provided either from information stored on board or from the cloud. Alexa, Amazon’s cloud-based voice assistant, is also available as an option.

All driving-relevant displays appear in the Audi virtual cockpit, which can be switched between two views. While the tachometer and speedometer are displayed as large dial-type gages in driving mode, the map is the centre of attention in infotainment mode. Both views have S-specific red graphical details. A special S-performance layout for the Audi virtual cockpit where the central focus is the tachometer, displayed as a square graph, and the output and torque are shown as percentages can also be selected in the MMI.

The optional head-up display can display important information on the windshield. MMI navigation plus serves as the infotainment and media centre in the new S8. Besides the integration of the Amazon Alexa voice assistant, the extensive Audi connect range includes numerous car-to-X services that draw on the swarm intelligence of the Audi fleet. Traffic light information is a new feature that Audi is adding successively in selected European cities. Thanks to the interconnection with the city’s infrastructure, the vehicle receives information from the central traffic light computer via a server, which allows the driver to select a speed to match the next green-light phase. The Audi virtual cockpit displays an individual speed recommendation as well as the remaining time until the next green-light phase if the driver is already waiting at a red light. The system thus contributes to a predictive and efficient driving style and facilitates a steady flow of traffic. Online traffic sign information, hazard alerts and on-street parking round out the range of car-to-X services.

The myAudi app connects the car to customers smartphone so that they can easily send destinations to the car from their couch. The Audi smartphone interface brings Android Auto and wirelessly Apple Car Play onboard. High-end components such as the Bang & Olufsen 3D Advanced Sound System and theAudi phone box round out the infotainment lineup in the new S8.

The S8 unusual 1-3-7-2-6-5-4-8 ignition sequence gives the 4.0 TFSI a sound that is at once highly sophisticated and sportily voluminous. In typical S model style, the dual-branch exhaust system terminates in two tailpipes on both the left and right. The driver can influence it via the Audi drive select system. In the “dynamic” profile, the electric flap that is positioned in front of the left auxiliary silencer opens, and the sound becomes even more full-bodied and impressive. So that the engine sound remains highly emotional at all times, the Audi S8 is equipped with the Active Noise Cancellation system as standard.

The S8'S power is transmitted via an eight-speed tiptronic transmission. The automatic torque converter transmission changes gears quickly and almost imperceptibly and impresses thanks to a high degree of efficiency. The driver can choose to have it operate automatically in modes E, D and S or intervene themself, in which case the selector lever commands are transmitted purely electrically. The revised transmission control detects stop-and-go traffic and prevents unnecessary gear changes in these situations.For operation in conjunction with MHEV technology, some modifications have been made to the tiptronic. When the new S8** is coasting or rolling at idle, a clutch in the central transmission opens and interrupts the power connection. An electric oil pump enables the tiptronic to engage the gear while coasting that will be needed at restart. Narrow springs at the multi-plate brakes in the gear sets separate the plates from one another and thus reduce drag torque.

The Design

From the very first glance, it is clear that the new Audi S8 boasts a sporty elegance and strong presence. Its athletic character is precisely expressed through specific design elements. The front end with the wide, upright Single frame grille, the flowing and muscular body with the flat roof dome and the rear end tilted slightly forward with the continuous light strip visualise its progressive character.

Sophisticated interior and exterior details exude prestige and craftsmanship. Below the Single frame is an aluminium strip that also extends along the flanks and across the rear. Powerful contours surround the air inlets, while honeycomb grilles and a vertical blade define their inner structure. The side sills with their bold design are wider towards the wheels than on the A8 and ensure a sporty presence. The sculptured rear bumper contains a rhomboid pattern insert and a clearly contrasting diffuser. Like the radiator protective grille and the air inlet grilles, it is finished in titanium black matt.

The new S8 comes with 20-inch alloy wheels with 265/40 tyres as standard. On request, Audi and Audi Sport GmbH supply alternative 20 and 21-inch wheels, with the latter equipped with 265/35 tyres. Besides the large wheels, the classic S design solutions catch the eye – the twin slats in the Single frame, the exterior mirror housings in aluminium look and the four oval exhaust tailpipes.

For an even sportier look, the brake callipers are also available in a red paint finish on request. The range of paint finishes for the S8 offers a choice of twelve colours as standard, including the popular Daytona grey, pearl effect. A customised paint finish according to the customer’s taste offers a special alternative as part of the Audi exclusive program.

138 LEDs and one laser pot: the lights with their refined play between metallic slats and chrome lines, the headlights of the new AudiS8 also have the appearance of technical works of art. Topping the range are the HD MatrixLED headlights with Audi laser light. Each headlight contains 138 light-emitting diodes, including 32 small, separately adjustable LEDs that share a single housing and radiate the high beam. The low beam is also variably controlled. The laser spot can be recognised by an X-shaped trim and a blue ambient light. The laser spot is activated from a speed of 43.5 mph and doubles the range of the high beam. Together with the HD Matrix LED headlights, Audi supplies OLED rear lights that emit homogeneous light. When the driver unlocks the S8 using a remote control key, a dynamic lighting sequence runs at the front and rear.

The interior compared to the previous model, is now 32 mm larger. It receives the driver and front passenger like a spacious, airy lounge. Its design is clean and reduced yet progressive, while the architecture has a strict horizontal layout. The standard contour/ambient lighting package lends the surfaces an atmospheric look with its indirect surface lighting. The front door sill trims bear a rhombus with the S logo and are illuminated. At the same time, light guides elegantly trace the striking lines of the interior design.

There are nine colour and design worlds to choose from, with Audi design selection pastel silver topping the range. The seat upholstery, the Alcantara headlining, the lower instrument panel area, the armrests on the doors and the centre console are all presented in this colour. The contrasting stitching and piping on the seats, the upper section of the instrument panel, the centre console and the carpet are granite grey.

You can choose from a variety of trim strips made from fine wood that are open-pored and therefore have a natural feel to them. The(standard) Carbon Vector upper inlay that impresses with its special 3D depth effect has been created exclusively for the Audi S8, Alternatively, there is the upper inlay with glossy piano finish, for example. Dark brushed matt aluminium lends the interior an elegant sportiness and is immediately adjacent to the upper inlay. The gear selector lever contains carbon applications.

Extended aluminium sections and glass-look buttons also represent sportiness and prestige in the interior. The pedals and footrest are made from stainless steel, while the engine start-stop button is adorned with a red ring. The S-specific twin-spoke steering wheel with shift paddles bears a rhombus with the S logo as well as an elegant chrome trim. The character of the new Audi S8 as a sporty, exclusive top model shines through in every detail.

For example, comfort customised contour seats with visually integrated, electrically height-adjustable head restraints and pronounced backrest side bolsters are part of the standard equipment. Each seat features three-stage heating – with ventilation as an option –and multiple massage functions that can be set to any one of seven programs and three intensity levels. The seats’ functions allow you to adjust 16 air pockets in the backrests of the front seats and 18 in those in the rear. The seat cushion and backrest feature a rhomboid pattern and are perforated with square holes, while there are S logos embossed under the head restraints. The hand-crafted character of theAudi S8 is evident here too.

Passengers on the rear seats are also provided with outstanding comfort. This is thanks to features such as ventilation and massage, the heat comfort package, the Matrix LED reading lamp, four-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning with ioniser and fragrancing, Rear Seat Entertainment and the Rear Seat Remote control unit. Rear-seat passengers can use its touch control facility to operate numerous convenience and infotainment features as well as make discreet phone calls. The Rear Seat Remote with its OLED display is approximately as big as a smartphone and can be removed from where it is stored in the rear centre armrest.

Practicality and Boot Space

The S8 offers huge amounts of practicality and space for all passengers. For such a large car parking is easy with the dynamic all wheel steering and the 360 cameras. The boot is huge - 505 litres in fact, which is large enough to carry 2 large suitcases and 2 hand luggage.

The Final Verdict…

The sound it makes, and the way it handles, combined with the comfort and quality of finish is just outstanding. The S8 in our opinion is without doubt one of the best cars on sale today.