Overview & Reviews

The flagship Audi A8 is a full-size luxury sedan meant to appeal to wealthy consumers looking for maximum luxury and space. Although competing models from the premium German and Japanese marques may sell in greater numbers, the A8 does possess a distinct advantage because of its aluminum frame and body panels. Significantly lighter than a traditional steel structure, the Audi Space Frame (ASF), as it's called, helps offset the weight of the car's Quattro all-wheel-drive system; the A8's competitors are primarily rear-wheel drive.

Thanks to Quattro, winter weather capability is one of the Audi A8's strengths. Luxurious accommodations are another, particularly with the last couple of generations. As with other Audis, understated luxury and cutting-edge electronics combine to form an experience that delivers refinement in abundance. Though it's sometimes overlooked, the A8 is a fine choice for a luxury flagship.

Current Audi A8
The Audi A8 is a full-size luxury sedan available in standard and long-wheelbase ("L") forms. Even with standard all-wheel drive (AWD), the A8 still weighs less than most of its rear-wheel-drive rivals, let alone those fitted with optional AWD. The A8's AWD system has a rear-biased power split, which helps to provide a sportier feel akin to a rear-drive performance sedan.

There are six trim levels: 3.0T, L 3.0T, L 3.0 TDI, 4.0T, L 4.0T and L W12. The 3.0T trims have a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 with 333 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. Like all A8 engines, it runs through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 4.0T trims have a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 that makes 420 hp and 444 lb-ft. The W12 features a 6.3-liter 12-cylinder engine that cranks out 500 hp and 463 lb-ft.  In addition to these gas-fueled powerhouses, there is the 3.0 TDI, a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 rated at 240 hp and 406 lb-ft. Regardless of engine choice, acceleration is swift, with the 0-60-mph sprint ranging from around 4.2 seconds to 6.3. Fuel economy is also notable, with the TDI in particular rated at an impressive 28 mpg combined.

Of course the A8 comes loaded with all the latest high-tech features. Highlights include a dynamic steering system that can intervene with automatic countersteering in a slide, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, automatic emergency braking, and night vision with thermal imaging and pedestrian detection. Audi's MMI electronics interface features an additional touchpad interface that reads fingertip gestures as letters and commands. Google Earth mapping for the navigation system is another A8 exclusive.

Beyond the sumptuous cabin, which features front and rear seats that can be adjusted in a multitude of ways, there's also the big sedan's impressive ride and handling characteristics. The ride is comfortable without excessive float over bumps. When pressed on a curvy road, the A8 proves surprisingly agile, with nicely weighted steering. Rear seat room is ample in the regular-wheelbase model, while the A8 L provides more than enough legroom for a pair of 6-footers.

The A8 undoubtedly lacks the name recognition and styling flair of its fellow Germans, but don't let that stop you from giving it strong consideration. With its roomy, best-in-class cabin and excellent driving dynamics, this luxury sedan shines as one of the strongest picks in its segment.

Used Audi A8 Models
The current A8 represents the third generation in the model's history, debuting in 2011. In that inaugural year, the sole engine was a 4.2-liter V8 engine with 372 hp and 328 lb-ft of torque. The following year brought the 6.3-liter W12. For 2013, the 4.2-liter was dropped, while both the supercharged V6 and turbocharged V8 seen in the current lineup debuted. Apart from lacking the TDI engine option and some minor differences in standard and optional equipment, these latter A8s are otherwise essentially identical to today's version.

The previous, second-generation Audi A8 was sold from 2004-'10. Relative to its predecessor, this generation offered a lighter chassis and a more muscular V8, along with lots of comfort, safety and suspension upgrades. This A8 was offered in both standard-wheelbase (A8) and long-wheelbase (A8 L) versions. The base engine was a 4.2-liter V8 that generated 335 hp and later rose to 350 hp for 2007. A six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive were standard. From 2005-'09, there was an A8 L W12 model that featured a 6.0-liter 12-cylinder engine that produced 450 hp.

Changes were light during this generation. There were slight styling alterations for '08, while the equipment list was bolstered nearly every model year. Regardless of which year you may be considering here, cabin furnishings were superb and the MMI interface made accessing the car's numerous audio, climate and navigation functions fairly easy. This A8 was often overlooked by luxury sedan shoppers, but we always found it to be a great alternative and certainly equal to other flagships in terms of luxury, performance and craftsmanship.

The first-generation Audi A8 was offered from 1997-2003. Although it was one of the most technologically advanced cars on the market by virtue of its aluminum frame, it never had its successor's flair for style or performance. Understated in its adornments inside and out, the original A8 failed to deliver the over-the-top ambience that's so important for high-dollar luxury sedans sold in the United States. However, if you like the idea of owning a discreet luxury car, you can buy a used A8 for considerably less than you'd pay for a used BMW 7 Series or Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

Early Audi A8s were offered only with a 113-inch wheelbase, which meant that their backseats were cramped compared to the other full-size luxury sedans. The longer and roomier A8 L arrived for the 2000 model year and would be our pick if you're planning to carry adults in back. Most first-generation A8s were sold with a 4.2-liter V8 and Quattro all-wheel drive. Thusly equipped, the A8 was one of the quickest large luxury sedans of its day, though the V8 was deficient in off-the-line torque. It was a comfortable car but not a particularly entertaining one due to overly soft suspension tuning. Audi also offered a less expensive front-wheel-drive model from 1997-'99. This rare A8 had a small 3.7-liter V8 and a modest 8.3-second 0-60 time.

User Reviews:

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  Outstanding - 2006 Audi A8
  By jfboca - April 2 - 7:57 pm

  Prior cars include Lexus, BMW and Mercedes. I dont know how I will feel three years from now, but after the first month I am blown away by the quality, style, performance, comfort ane ease of driving this car. The CD changer is in a far away place because the car is so wide and comfortable. Visibility, is a little tighter than what I am used to, but that gives it the style part! If you are considering a sedan in this price range, please do yourself a favor and take a look at the Audi. It opened my eyes, and I feel great about my decision! I look forward to enjoying it some more. JF

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  German Perfection for all of us! - 2006 Audi A8
  By Iakona - March 25 - 12:40 am

  Just bought this beauty! Coming from MB500 and other Euros, I found this A8L to be an absolute perfect match for me. 83K loaded out the door, 17k less than the new MB550. 2nd day I owned her it snowed like crazy and I passed a Lexus like it was standing still. Wow what power and how about that "cant feel it transmission" Drove them all and choose the style that drops your jaw. Had to get the "L" because at 63 have to go all the way back, and the kids still can stretch out. Love it, without a doubt its he best.

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  Audi Satisfaction - 2005 Audi A8
  By DenaliinPA - March 20 - 9:42 pm

  i leased my 05 A8 in December of 2004. this is my first Audi. so far my vehicle has been completely trouble free and a pleasure to own. the attention to detail inside and out is amazing. from the beautifully crafted interior to the exteriors crisp clean lines the A8 is visually satisfying from all angles. the performance and handling feel as though you are driving a much smaller vehicle. i live in the northeast and had become accustomed to parking my car and using my SUV when the snow starts to fly. not anymore. the A8 has performed flawlessly in the snowy weather. even with the original equipment all season tires you feel very confident driving on snow covered roads.

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  Deep pockets required - 1999 Audi A8
  By nomoreaudi - February 26 - 4:52 pm

  A beautiful car smooth and quiet ride. Was looking forward to several years of ownership and driving pleasure. However, transmission trouble, numerous MIL error codes and gasket leaks generated enormous shop bills, (primarily the labor to diagnose problem & access components for servicing). There are few options for service outside of the dealer network. Yet, dealers and independent shops that specialize in German automobile service alike seemed puzzled by some of the issues this car presented. At purchase time, it looked like a bargain in comparison to the Lexus LS400. However, long term cost of ownership is outrageous. 1 year repair/maint. costs exceeded $7K with no end in sight.

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  The Best Luxury Car Ever! - 2006 Audi A8
  By Robert - February 21 - 7:07 pm

  I have owned several luxury cars in the past few years. I just finished my 2nd lease of a Lexus LS430. This time around I was looking for something a little more exciting to drive but did not want to give up the ride quality and quietness I had grown used to. I also wanted a car that handled much better. A friend suggested the A8L. I am so thankful he did. This is the best luxury car I have ever owned! The handling superb and the fit and finish of the interior and quality of materials is far better than the LS 430 I just turned in. For those out there looking for a great luxury car listen to me The Audi A8L is the car you want no questions asked! (And free maintenance is wonderful!)

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  Audi A8L - 2005 Audi A8
  By allan gushue - February 14 - 10:14 pm

  The Audi A8 l has been a pleasure to drive. Great for long trips...perfect high way auto.

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  Awesome Car - 2007 Audi A8
  By Brian Luedtke - January 27 - 4:40 am

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  Cost of Disappointment - 1999 Audi A8
  By Blair - January 22 - 1:35 am

  This car, while I love the styling and driving it, is the largest disappointment I have ever had in a car. In the 19 months or so that I have had the car, I have had over $12K in repairs in the car. Between depreciation and cost of repairs, the car has cost me nearly $2K a month to drive, not including gas and insurance. I could have gotten a new BMW if I had wanted to pay that kind of money each month. The transmission went out on the car at 92K miles and it is $5500 to replace through Audi. Nothing from Audi has more than a 12 month/12K mile warrantee. That is pitiful considering the cost and that there are no other replacements.

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  Great But... - 2006 Audi A8
  By BillyJo - January 22 - 1:06 am

  For some reason I felt it was time to replace my 01 BMW 740iL which I consider to be one of the best looking cars ever. New 7 series did not appeal much to me. My A8L has significant blind spot when changing lanes in heavy traffic. I enjoy the technology and the MMI offers many useful functions but I often take my eyes off the road to operate. Voice command and steering wheel buttons help a bit. Changing radio stations is cumbersome. The Nav is not as complete as my BMW. It often gets me to a street but not to exact location. The new grill adds distinction but previous looked better to me. Minor complaints only. Car is comfortable and enjoyable to drive. The interior really is beautiful.

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  Should the flagship retire? - 2001 Audi A8
  By Chris - January 13 - 12:59 am

  Vehicle has been a constant source of satisfaction from design and function point of view. Quattro is to die for when you live on top of a mountain in NE. Car gets many looks. Classy, understated but luxurious, especially with rear and side shades up. Formula shifting and 310 HP makes it a L&P vehicle. Too bad Audi cant engineer a car thats not in for repairs as often as its being enjoyed.