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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  One smooth car from look to ride and handling - 2017 Audi A8
  By nb - December 14 - 3:36 pm

  My A8 L is a 2017 3.0T quattro Tiptronic with everything including the adaptive chassis and front power seats with massage. In other words, you really cant beat this care for comfort. Even the controls are laid out in a configuration that makes sense and with easy access so your fingers dont fumble around when you want to reach out for something. The highest compliment I can give this car is that I actual enjoy being a passenger when my wife is driving. Not that my wife is a bad driver, but usually I am a horrible passenger. The ride is amazingly smooth and acceleration is close to driving a sports car. The safety features are amazing and should you be using lane assist, you will get an audible warning to tell you to put your hands back on the wheel. Some people arent fans of all the safety features but I am. Given the condition of roads and the amount of distracted drivers out there, I like feeling I might have an edge. The navigation system is excellent and it also provides you with traffic conditions and problems ahead. I did purchase extended warranties guaranteeing me bumper to bumper protection through 2023, including scratch protection. These automobiles are really comfortable computers on wheels and only a fool would fail to protect themselves in case a computer board or chip gets fried. My collision insurance took a slight jump as these wouldnt be inexpensive cars to repair, but it wasnt a bump such that it is highly noticeable; more like a hundred dollar jump.

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  All I can say is....WOW! - 2005 Audi A8
  By Rick - December 12 - 7:49 am

  This car is fantastic! Fast and fun to drive. The MMI is so much easier to use than BMWs. My favorite part of the test drive was going to a wet, empty parking lot and lowering the suspension to Dynamic and then letting this car work its magic!

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  Objective Review - 2001 Audi A8
  By lgp38 - December 10 - 2:12 am

  Ive driven Mercedes, Lexus, BMWs, Cadillacs, and although some of them had more gadgets, more power or were more quiet, none of them felt as solid and rigid as the 2001 Audi A8. Personally, the rarity of this vehicle is a big plus for me, and that is complemented by a solid ride, more than average comfort and very acceptable performance for such a heavy car, not to mention the Quattro, which shines in every aspect. Its fuel economy is not great, but frankly which car in this category gives more than 15 mpg. This car may not be a rocket, or turn on a dime, but whatever performance number it reaches, it does in a very smooth and effortless way. Add to this a warranty until 2007 or 100,000 miles.

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  best rocket car - 2005 Audi A8
  By chris gaynor - December 7 - 12:18 am

  This is absolutly the best car ever on the market. My wife does not get to touch it. It is fast, responsive, and its design is the standard lost by BMW and Mercedes-Benz. It is the new gold standard, miles ahead of everything out there. It has great power and lines. Just buy one, and you will feel that youve finally gotten what you paid for and then some. Its architecture is stellar...do it.

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  just do it - 2005 Audi A8
  By BENAVA - December 5 - 11:06 pm

  If you are looking for a fun, luxurious, performance sedan , look no furthur. I have had a number of luxury automobiles, including the BMW 7-Series, the Mercedes-Benz S500., and Lexus. This is by-far the most any car enthusiasts can ask for. I traded in a 2004 BMW 7-Series for it. JUST DO IT

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  If not Perfection, damn close! - 2005 Audi A8
  By bob damato - December 1 - 11:10 pm

  The A8 "Short" model is absolutely incredible. The interior absolutely blows away any MB, BMW or any other automobile made - at any price... This car feels and drives like it made from a solid billet block of aircraft aluminum. Handling is suberb, with the wheel allowing road feel to come right thru to my hands without being loose. The tracking of the car is like nothing else Ive ever driven. Body and interior finish is exquisite. The Ameretto interior with the Maple wood is an exquisite color combination. You have three ride options that all feel tight and controlled. I leave it on "Auto" and it works just fine. The transmission is seamless and accelerateion incredible.

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  Like it alot - 2004 Audi A8
  By Rickster - o - Rama - November 10 - 6:06 am

  After 1200 miles, still honeymooning, I have had zero initial problems. I chose the Audi after considering the 745, Lexus LS 430, and believe it or not, the X5 and Toureg. The 745 was closest but after really working at it, I remained confounded by the BMW iDrive system. I am a technology geek and this was over the edge. The MMI interface on the Audi is much more intuitive, but you do have to be a person willing to live with it for a week of daily use until you get the knack of it. The LS 430 was too stodgy looking, the X5 interior kludgy, and the Toureg was too funny looking for my taste. So, the A8L it was, and man am I happy about it.

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  My views on the Audi A8L - 2005 Audi A8
  By Lawrence Hahn - October 21 - 2:00 am

  During some minor bodywork, the battery had to be disconnected, after which the MMI was inoperative. Now, I cant use the sound system or nav system. Local Audi dealer could not restore MMI and claims he must order new nav system CD, which I find difficult to believe. I love this car but cannot understand why Audi felt it necessary to incorporate MMI which results in a simple operation such as turning on radio or changing temp settings to a demanding task, reqiring pulling off the road.

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  The best out there !!! - 2005 Audi A8
  By BufSol50 - October 21 - 2:00 am

  If you want to own the best all round hi-performance sedan that can be obtained without dipping into your grandkids inheritance this is your car !!! It looks classy and understated .... has more bells and whistles than my 04 RL and runs like a bat out of ..... well .... you know where ..... in any kind of weather its as stable as a mountain goat. Keep your 745s or your S500s or your LS430s .... gimme my A-8 and git outta my way !!!

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  worth it - 2005 Audi A8
  By big h - October 21 - 2:00 am

  sleek on the outside and soft and seemless on the inside. handles great and interior features are easy to use. drives like youre sitting on your living room couch with good pick up and turns on a rail. the only down side is an obnoxious continous ringing noise when the door is open and the key is still in the ignition (even when in park)and continous beeping when seat belt is not in use. could use a couple more locations for service, but otherwise, is spectacular.