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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  Great Car - Big Time Maintenence - 1997 Audi A8
  By Xialater - January 25 - 2:00 am

  Great car, I miss mine every day......I just wish it didnt cost a small fortune to maintain the car

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  Never follow - 1999 Audi A8
  By GDFofHouston - January 24 - 2:00 am

  I purchased an A8 because a BMW service advisor recommended it over a similar 740. He was right! Not only was it thousands less, but the performance is remarkable. The car is noticeably more nimble than the BMW. The quattro system was superb during the fall monsoons in Houston. Advantage Audi in Houston treated me like royalty when I brought the car in for an oil change, which surprised me as I bought the car in Ohio. If you havent driven one, you should before you buy any other premium car.

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  rattles - 2001 Audi A8
  By rattles - January 4 - 2:00 am

  I WOULD NOT PURCHASE THE CAR AGAIN! The car rattles badly. the dealer admits to the rattles privitely but admits they can`t fix them.The car has been in the shop for so many days I lost count.Other problems included multiple electronic failures, gas gauge failure, acceleration override problems where the engine management system retards acceleration when you move quickly from the brake to the accelerator before the brake pedel contacts a relay that allows the accelerator to engage. No help from audi to correct the problem has been forthcoming, in spite of dealing with high level customer service personel

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  Biggie sized A4 - 1997 Audi A8
  By TVO - November 9 - 2:00 am

  I enjoy the high-speed crusing at 85-90. It is quite, refined, and solid, with more than enough power available at highway speeds. You can drive for extended miles on the highway and arrive relaxed. The large fuel tank will allow you to go over 600 miles before refilling, but your bladder probably wont last that long without a stop. A used A8 is a much better value than a new A4 for the same dollars.

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  BUY ME! - 1998 Audi A8
  By loser - September 17 - 2:00 am

  This must be the best car Ive ever owned...Ive owed Mbs and tons of other great cars but nothing to this...its awsom power is amazing, 80-110 quicker than 0-60 (that is a big deal) breaks strong light weight......

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  Effortless grace -- and eat my dust too. - 2000 Audi A8
  By chrisjh - September 2 - 2:00 am

  It does what you want when you want it with effortless grace and composure. Communicative under all circumstances. How can such a large car be so damn good, work so well, feel so good, catch so many looks and gestures/comments of appreciation -- its magical.

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  My A8: So close to being a great car - 1999 Audi A8
  By programme - August 14 - 2:00 am

  I was looking for a high quality car that didnt attract attention. Puchased an A8 lease trade-in with 28000 mi. Automatic everything. Wish I had seats like this in my house. Quick and agile for its size. Refreshing to drive. 19mpg around town. 24mpg highway. After 15000 miles were still getting to know each other, but Im hopeful for a long- term relationship.

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  WHAT A CAR! - 1997 Audi A8
  By wil03 - August 8 - 2:00 am

  I have owned Lexus LS400, Mercedes S500, and BMW 750IL. This car is by far the most fun to driveThe car is ultra smooth at speed in excess of 100 mph, truely a car made for the auto Bahn. I cant believe this car gets over 25mph on the freeway too! The Quattro is an asset to the car that makes you feel confident in any snowy/rainy road... something most of the other luxury car maker have not been able to match. So for ultimate safety and performance, this car is a deal! Especially for a used one, since unfortuantely this car doesnt hold up its value very well new.

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  Audi A8 3.7 - 1998 Audi A8
  By DeMarco - July 11 - 2:00 am

  I have loved this car since as long as I can remember. It is everything with out the snob appeal of MB or BMW, this gem is so understaded its a shame.

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  One of the Best BigEuro Sedans ever made - 1999 Audi A8
  By Brutus - July 8 - 2:00 am

  Understated luxury in an all-aluminum chassis and body. Its sportslike handling capabilities from this "big cat" is just one of great things about this Audi A8. After 3 years, it still is as beautiful as the day I picked it up and has the same tight and powerful drive feel too.