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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  All around best used car I ever bought - 2001 Audi A8
  By Car buff - March 24 - 4:31 pm

  Dumped my 06 R350, to much time in the shop and issues never fixed. Should have got an another Audi-well now I have- this is my 2nd one and I love the big car feeling, plenty of power, great handling all the creature comforts, get one used if you can and save a few $$. Put 9k miles on it so far and it just does what it supposed to do! It now has 145k and feels like new. Great car.

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  Best Luxury Value - 2007 Audi A8
  By Jerry R - February 20 - 1:29 pm

  After selling my 06 A8L I realized what a wonderful car it was and found an 07 A8L with an MSRP of $90K, with 12k miles for $50K. New was out of the question due to initial loss. These cars are an absolute remarkable value (used). I dont know how Audi is able to get the mileage out of a 4000+ lb. car with all wheel drive. Both comfort and performance are unsurpassed. B & O radio is a must . Rear seat leg room is better than a new Rolls- Royce Ghost @ $300K, and anyone who rides in it (who doesnt know Audi) is amazed.

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  Officially switched from BMW to Audi - 2006 Audi A8
  By RD - January 30 - 4:23 pm

  After owning two BMW 3-series for the last 14 years, I decided to go with one of the large, luxury sedans. Was considering the 5 and 7 from BWW and the E-class Benz. Then I drove a friends A6 and was blown away. Added the A6 to the list and started looking. Decided to check out the A8 and I was immediately sold. Nothing else compared after that. The A8 was extremely hard to find, but the one I landed on was nearly perfect - just about every option available and only 27k miles! LOVE this car.

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  Best of the lot - 2009 Audi A8
  By Charlie - November 11 - 7:00 pm

  Drives exceptionally well for a big car. More stable and faster than my Infiniti M35X. Beautifully crafted and actually gets better mpg than the 6 cyl Infiniti. Comfort features are better than Infiniti and Acura. This car is meant to be driven long and hard (fast). After my Lexus, Acura and Infiniti, I was a bit scared to go to Audi, but now I look forward to my next excuse to drive. A true luxury car that responds to sporty driving with ease. Best road handling Ive had, including some smaller sportier cars.

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  1999 Audi A8 - 1999 Audi A8
  By Paul - November 11 - 10:19 am

  Drives like a dream. Good handling. You have to step on the gas when taking off from a stop but once going, its ready to fly. Very comfortable especially on long trips. Expensive to repair. Lots of features to go wrong. It has 3 or 4 ball joints per side. I replaced 3 one side. The arm rest just broke and I havent priced that out but I heard it could cost up to $500. Ill look for a used one. Recommended timing belt change between 80K and 100K cost was around $2K. I bought it with 18,000 miles and now have 102,000. It looks and feels better than most new cars. The blue book is only around $7K. I think it would be a steal at that price.

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  A8=Great! - 2005 Audi A8
  By Roger Lyman - September 28 - 4:04 pm

  I purchased my A8 a year ago and have found it to be a very pleasing car to drive. The car was certified and in the 18,000 miles Ive driven it, there have been zero problems. My car came with 19" wheels but I had a set of 18" from a previous car and when the tires on the 19s were worn, I replaced them with the 18" wheels. This resulted in a quieter and more compliant ride with no noticeable degradation of the handling (for my driving style). The A8 pleases me greatly and I plan to keep it for a while as I dont care for the newer "Big Mouth" front design of the 06 on models. Service is expensive but Audi does sell a prepaid package that is well worth the money. Overall, a great ride.

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  Quiet and solid - 2009 Audi A8
  By jrh332 - September 21 - 1:39 pm

  Traded in a 2007 A8 with sport package for 2009 A8L. Miss the looks of the 20" wheels on 07 but passengers like the back seat better and the 09 19" wheels are easier to clean. Solid 24 mpg highway at 75 mph cruise. 15-16 mpg around town. Great cars and get a lot of positive comments from strangers about what a beautiful car. Quiet and solid. Cant imagine it getting much better than this.

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  Leader in quality and comfort - 2005 Audi A8
  By auditogo - June 9 - 3:02 pm

  This is best car I have had after owning several BMW models. 2005 models came with bluetooth in later production model which apparently are way more reliable than the ones with OnStar*. The only maintenance I have done over the last year is brakes and oil changes. Its hard to drive anything else once you get used to fine interior and futuristic interior. Seats are best in this class of cars. Check details online the way this car is being produced, all aluminum chassis and adjustable suspension modes provide superb ride quality. I prefer SWB over L because of aesthetics. Rear seats still provide a lot of room. MMI is easy to use and Bose stereo is the best I have come across. PPI is a must.

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  Best Sedan In its class - 2006 Audi A8
  By Tyler - June 6 - 3:50 pm

  I have been wanting an A-8 for years and finally ran across one worth buying. Depreciation is heavy in the first 3 years but this is the best sedan in its class by far. The MMI is awesome and extremely easy to figure out for a non-tech guy. I have owned Lexus, BMW, and Acura and would not go back. This is the car to own if you can afford one.

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  78,000 miles, 10 years old, Still Great - 1999 Audi A8
  By Larry Vale - June 2 - 5:15 pm

  Ive had no problems besides the front rack a few years ago. ($2k). Just scheduled maintenance involved and PM changing the transmission filter and fluid a few weeks ago. No door dings or rust with the Alum body. No squeaks or rattles either. Undervalued in the market.