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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  Good CAR - 2004 Audi A8
  By Bengregmich - September 9 - 2:00 am

  I think this is a great car with unlimited technolgy features that are all great!

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  Unbelievable Car - 2004 Audi A8
  By Smiling Customer - August 31 - 2:00 am

  This car is incrdible. They have really done their work. Audi should be proud of their accomplishments. I am just tickeled that I only had to pay $77,000 for this awesome vehicle. Mercedes could not touch the aminities of this car for the price. In fact for them to offer us a car with the same aminities would run more than $90,000 (including All wheel drive. You just have to try it out for yourself. Thanks Audi!

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  Fantastic Machine!! - 2004 Audi A8
  By Gulfquest - August 29 - 2:00 am

  After owning BMW 7s for years, this car is incredibly smooth, quiet, and powerful. Handling/power is excellent and comfort/interior appointments are superb. Living in Florida, I wonÂ’t test the four-wheel drive to any great degree, but the adjustable height suspension has come in handy with all the flooding weÂ’ve had (I used the lift mode to raise the body to go through some bad flood areas - A brand new LS430 was not as fortunate). Audi has clearly designed a winner and with Audis low production numbers, it is also a car that has a high measure of exclusivity on the road. I am soooo happy I didnt buy a 745 or S500 while waiting for this car!!!

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  A Truly Intelligent Car - 2004 Audi A8
  By Tuck - August 25 - 2:00 am

  A little study before starting, then set ALL the various components of the car in the MMI system and ENJOY! Audi has used the best features from competition, improved them, and added their own innovations. Steering is very precise. The car is so smooth but yet nimble like a sports car with the air suspension set on dynamic. A 400 mile trip was effortless and fun trying out all the variations and options in the MMI. This Audi attracts a crowd. I will enjoy this car every day as it is the best car I have ever owned.

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  really sorry BMW - 2004 Audi A8
  By terryo - August 7 - 2:00 am

  Great handling car with the looks to match. Very quiet and a great handling car. I did not like the 19 inch wheels because the car was more noisy and did not travel the road very well. However the 18 inch all season tires are better matched for my climate and driving. Also the CD player quit after 2 days,but it is replaced. The sound system is good in urban areas however the reception in rural areas is not as good as my old 98 A8 or my Town and Country.

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  excellent driving - 2003 Audi A8
  By cape cod - August 1 - 2:00 am

  The A8L(2003) is one of the finest cars on the road today bar none.Performance is well balanced for a car of 2.2tons. the ride Quality is excellent its fit and finish are also excellent I longer I own it the more I enjoy it. Cape Cod

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  This car is gonna get EVERY single award - 2004 Audi A8
  By amol - August 1 - 2:00 am

  I LOVE THIS CAR!!!! The 19" wheels give a sporty appeal to the exterior. I tried out my friends BMW 745i (same price but smaller) and the i-drive was TERRIBLE!!! Audis MMI, however, is VERY user-friendly!! Audi, you made the PERFECT CAR!!

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  Vermont A8 - 1999 Audi A8
  By cbmac - July 30 - 2:00 am

  This car has great power and is a joy to drive. Also, the car does great in the winter, and does not even need snow tires in Vermont where we normally get more than 110 inches of snow. I have never been stuck, even going up in the mountains while going skiing.

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  Audi A8 -- great for mountain living - 2000 Audi A8
  By MEBalk - July 22 - 2:00 am

  Living in the mountains of Colorado, where we contend with steep climbs and snowy weather, the Audi A8 is as good as a sedan can get. Its got the power, traction, looks, room and reliability that a top of the line luxury sedan should deliver.

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  Awsome car - 2004 Audi A8
  By Yaudi - July 18 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car i ever had!!!!!!!!!!!!!