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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  Excellent Car - 1997 Audi A8
  By AL/Dallas - February 25 - 2:00 am

  This car looks much better in real-life than in pictures. I bought mine for the fact that it is a rare car. You see 20 BMW 7 series for every A8 you see on the road. The gearing is set too high so that stoplight launches are not spectacular but this car has fantastic passing speed. Ive taken it up to 130 mph and the engine doesnt even strain. The transmission is turbine smooth and shifts seamlessly. The interior is luxurious yet sporty and logically laid out. Maintenance is expensive (similiar to Mercedes and BMW) but expected. The A8 makes my friends Acura RL feel like a Honda Accord. Always fun to drive.

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  BMwho? - 1999 Audi A8
  By mtalinm - February 22 - 2:00 am

  Used to be a BMW nut, but now those double- kidney-grille vehicles just give me the creeps. The A8 has erased any former affection for the Bavarian creature. Audi is where its at. Faster and more comfortable than 740i, but much more subtle.

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  Audi A8L is equal or better than others - 2004 Audi A8
  By JEROME JENKINS - February 22 - 2:00 am

  I was considering an S500 Mercedes and felt after one test drive that I could get everything I wanted in that car and more in the A8L for less money. I have owned a Lexus LS400 and a Mercedes S420 before and I feel certain that this is the finest car I have ever owned. I would advise anyone looking for a high end automobile to test drive the A8L.

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  early problems - 2004 Audi A8
  By unhappy owner2 - February 21 - 2:00 am

  In the 10 weeks ive owned the car, my remote controls have died out three times. The dealership keeps fixing it and it dies out again, So far the dealership cannot figure it out. The service is nothing like the great experienve Ive had with Lexus.

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  Good Techology, terrible phone system - 2004 Audi A8
  By robertpica - February 19 - 2:00 am

  I immediately recognized the technology advances over BMW and Mercedes. Buyers need to beware of Motorola V60 phone functionality. It does not work with the onboard MMI system and is basically a glorified hands free kit (effectively USD 1,000) for no added value. Voice activation is approximate at best and does not work when raining Suprisingly, none of the professional reviewers noticed that the phone system is archaic and a real problem. The Mercedes S class do have numbers that upload to the onboard computer. Another issue to be careful with is the choice of wheel rims. I have the 19" with sport tires which account for a very bumpy ride.

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  AWD ultimate sports sedan - 2004 Audi A8
  By pkn - February 19 - 2:00 am

  excellent power and handling. great interior ergonomics. solid seating with good support and confort. great AWD.

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  Brilliant - 1999 Audi A8
  By 007ab - February 14 - 2:00 am

  This car is brilliant in design and execution. It is a spoiler for sure. Currently in the body shop due to a person not looking before backing from their parking space. I miss driving it.

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  Exceptional Luxury Sedan - 2004 Audi A8
  By Gregory Demetriades - February 8 - 2:00 am

  Audi not only goes head-to-head with the S-Class Mercedes and the BMW 7 Series, but raises the bar on what a luxury sedan is in terms of value for money, aesthetic pleasure, performance handling, reliability, SAFETY, and all around "feel good". This is one seriously exceptionally engineered handling automobile. It is a welcome addition and partner to my existing E- Class Mercedes and Porsche Boxster S. I would recommend the A8 to anyone who is looking for the benefits of a luxury sedan without forfeiting the pleasures of a high-performance sports car.

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  WOW! - 2004 Audi A8
  By MPW - February 5 - 2:00 am

  This car is unbelievable! The exterior styling, interior layout/finish and performance are all best in the class. The sound system is best Ive ever heard, there is room for days in the front, back and trunk, and for a car its size, it handles better and is more responsive than the Porsche I traded in. I looked at the 7-Series and the S-Class and neither compared! Buy the Audi!

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  More than expected by hot car lover. - 2004 Audi A8
  By BobA - January 29 - 2:00 am

  My A9L is a dream come true. Makes BMW and MB look last generation. More fun to drive than a Turbo Cayenne, and more rare. Interior details are stunning. Lighting is knockout. Stereo is wonderful. Back seat is almost limo. I drove one of the first TT coupes in Florida. People crossed 4 lanes of traffic to oogle it. This car is just as stunning. Even my teenage son and his friends are impressed. It must be cool. And there is room for 4 bags and 4 golfers in style. Audi quality and service are wonderful. My dealer, Shelton, is A1. I hate to gush, but it is one ego trip for a person who loves to drive.