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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  WOW, what a car! - 2005 Audi A8
  By Simontemplar265 - January 10 - 5:47 pm

  Ive had them all, Beemers Mercs, Lexus LS 430 and SC430s, none come close. This is the finest of the big boys. Commodius, like a limo, drives and handles and fun with the triptonic. Eats up the miles and I have 7 speeding tickets to prove it (time for a radar detector). At 130 mph its like sitting in your living room and watching television in a very comfortable seat: If you try it, youll buy it!. No squeaks or rattles after 20,000 miles. What a car!

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  Best money I ever spent on a car. - 2005 Audi A8
  By Ken - January 9 - 11:09 pm

  The car is quiet - a great mobile office. But, with the optional paddle- shifters, its also like driving my S4 sport convertible, only heavier. It corners, accelerates, and responds phenominally. Ive driven them all - this is the best interior, most luxurious, fun, responsive luxury sport-sedan in the $80-120K range. Go for the paddles, the massage & ventilated seats, and the large multi-spoke wheels. I love my black, but its sweet in the grays too. Awesome in snow or on a sunny, winding road. MMI computer system is easy to read. Bluetooth phone system is excellent. Best $$$ I ever spent on a car!

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  Glad we selected the A8 - 2006 Audi A8
  By L. Walden - January 9 - 5:40 pm

  Audi management seems to understand that quality and performance will be rewarded. We tried many of the competitive cars in this class and chose the A8 for its performance with Quattro technology and the best interior of its peers. It is also nice to drive a best-in-class car without the haughty stigma attached. If we had the opportunity to drive over 130mph daily I would have considered the M5 (even though I dont like the body as much as the A8). But now with the S8 on the way it may be a moot point. An amazing day to day car. (Note: Unless you are riding in the back seat, skip the L version. The MMI is relatively easy to use. Get the premium package if you can.)

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  A8L is the best! - 2006 Audi A8
  By Sal - January 2 - 6:47 am

  The 2006 A8L is an awesome car, its my first Audi and will by no means be my last! I drove the MB S500, and was turned off by the BMW 7 series awful exterior and interior styling, so I went to Audi and fell in love with the A8L, great engine, the interior is exquisite and huge, and the exterior is refined but at the same time aggressive on the front end, a perfect design by Audi, its the best looking car on the road in my opinion. In the 3 months I have had the car Ive had only one problem with the car, the MMI computer system went out suddenly one day and it took 3 days to get a new computer installed by the dealer, they say that this is a VERY rare occurance and Im not concerned by it

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  " A Real Treat" - 2006 Audi A8
  By Paul R - December 30 - 4:01 pm

  Leased a 2006 A8L for 36 mo. It was a pleasure from day one. Ive had 750 BMW in the past, but there is no contest between the 2 cars. Appearance, ride, all the well thought out trinkets made for a great product and pleasure to have. Mileage around town 15mpg and on the road (70-80mph) 24- 26mpg, not so bad. Try one, you cant go wrong.

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  W12 my best yet - 2005 Audi A8
  By W. Reymond - December 30 - 3:04 pm

  Having had several nice cars, Citroen SM, 928, A4, I find this the best overall designed car yet. The MPG was expected to be low, but that comes with a car of this performance. The features are extensive and useful, especially the adjustable ride which reminds me of the SM. I give this car my highest overall rating ever.

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  What an Upgrade! - 2006 Audi A8
  By JMd - December 21 - 1:01 pm

  I traded in my V8 Touareg for this SWB A8 with the same engine. More power and 1,000 pounds less equals joy at the pumps and on twisty backroads :) The MMI is overly done but you get used to it. The ride is superb, the interior is grand, and fit and build quality continues to set benchmarks. This car is so much more exclusive, better looking, and a better value than the all-too-common S-Class and 7-Series.

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  BYE BYE BMW! - 2006 Audi A8
  By Gregory - December 13 - 12:59 pm

  I have owned two BMWs (740il & 745li) I was accused of having an affair with my female BMW service advisor as I was visiting her every month with problems with my BMW. I finally said enough is enough and went to Audi and test drove the 2006 A8L. WOW!! What a vehicle. Not only has this car been wonderful to drive, the technology, using the MMI system is much easier to use then BMWs Idrive. I agree with the earlier review about the cup holders. They are small, and not well positioned. Every other aspect of the vehicle has surpassed my expectations!

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  Converted from BMW 7 Owner to Audi 8L - 2005 Audi A8
  By David G - November 22 - 2:59 am

  Had a hard time shifting our loyalty from BMW to any other German car. The Audi 8L was purchased by a brother in law and he raved enough to make us take a look. Fit and finish were outstanding and Audis version of the iDrive is superior. Great sound, clean lines, and large comfortable interior. Car is quiet, and sophisticated and dealer has been strong. Full maintenance on warranty and All wheel drive = Great!

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  Big Problems - 2005 Audi A8
  By Rick - November 21 - 5:00 pm

  We have had continual problems with the computer and Advanced Keys. The electricly operated trunk closed on my wife and hurt her, the HVAC is hard to control and does what it wants, the settings are nested inside the unit and are unsafe to operate while driving, the visibility to the rear required removing the rear headrest, the outward side visibility is poor as the mirrors are not wide enough and the pillar and seat back obscure side vision. The dealer cannot fix the problems and Audi has not "escalated" our complaints to where the regional or national reps will get involved. We are tremendously unhappy and Audi has not helped.