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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  Problems already? - 2004 Audi A8
  By James Dvorak - July 13 - 2:00 am

  Lets see, I have only 400 miles on my A8L and it has spent 4 days in the shop because the MMI system locks up or just will not start. I really hope this is not an indicator of things to come. I had to get rid of a 745i for similar iDrive errors and recalls. Audi needs to nip this in the bud quickly before they end up buying back all of their first year models.

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  Fun to drive, but rotten electronics - 2004 Audi A8
  By lewis m weston - July 7 - 2:00 am

  The car drives well(but not as well as the 740iL it replaced) but the electronics are a horror. To tune the radio the driver needs to take his eyes off the road. About half the time the right outside mirror doesnt return to normal position after reversing.The MMI screen comes up blank if its been closed before, and needs to be opened, closed and opened again to work.After 2 months, something drained the battery and the car had to be towed to the dealer.

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  Should have bought a Mercedez - 2004 Audi A8
  By Coralreefmastr - June 25 - 2:00 am

  I bought a brand new car and within 3000 miles it broke down. The dealership has had our car longer than we have. We have no idea when we will get it back. A car that cost 85 thousand dollars shouldnt break down in less than a month. Im very disappointed with my first Audi and I will never buy another one. I should have bought a Mercedez.

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  Love the Car...hate the maintenance cost - 1997 Audi A8
  By 0977q345 - June 10 - 2:00 am

  This is really the finest of cars. I love the performance, comfort, and driving characteristics. The only issue is the exorbinate price of repairs. Driven entirely by Audis excessive prices. The screw in replacement antenna cost over $150 (dealer is only place to get part). You will love the car, but expect to pay ($$$) for that love!

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  Electrical Malfunction - 2004 Audi A8
  By baker - May 21 - 2:00 am

  Otherwise stellar car spoiled by serious problem -- Nav system and other elec. components periodically decide to continue to drain power hours after the car is switched off -- resulting in dead battery. Three trips to dealer and still no fix. Battery is in the trunk if you need to jump it.

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  almost love it - 2004 Audi A8
  By jhouseman - May 2 - 2:00 am

  It drives beautifully. I have had mercedes, lexus and BMW, and this car drives better than all of them. However, the attention to simple conveniences is not there. For example, Good luck finding a water bottle that will not fall over in the front cup holders. Also there is only a 6 CD changer. No additional single CD changer (as in the BMW) nor a tape deck. This means that you cannot switch between sources without losing your place. So while the car is a pleasure to drive, it does not take care of some of the simple things that you should never notice.

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  very good, not great - 2004 Audi A8
  By ms goldklang - April 12 - 2:00 am

  handles beautifully, but with a couple of minor annoyances---shifting from first to second can be a bit jerky on occasion, and speedometer consistently overregisters by a little over 5 % (odometer also overregisters, by 1--2%).

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  Some Good..Some Not So Good - 2004 Audi A8
  By Leos team - April 9 - 2:00 am

  I drove everything in the class Q45, Very solid feel to the car. Have not had the need to truly work out the Quattro but it is nice to know it is 745,S500,LS430,XJR and the A8L won out with combination of performance, looks, roominess and value for the dollar. The 4 year maintenance included helped make the decision as well. My vehicle was ordered with convenience, cold weather, parktronic (a must)and 19" wheels. Much has been made of the harsh ride with the 19" wheels. I have not experienced a problem. Given their excellent look, I can deal with any minor lack of ride comfort.

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  Audi Critique - 2004 Audi A8
  By Charles Vallone - December 28 - 2:00 am

  Automatic trunk closure never worked properly. MMI system shuts down completely at different times-very erratic Nav system did not function properly when purchased Rear seal leak- Had to be replaced Local dealer would not offer loaner-he did not sell the car. It takes 12-14 days to schedule maintenance with local dealer. This has happened on three separate occasions.

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  Should be illegal in US - 1998 Audi A8
  By pjbrady - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car since 2002 and its amazing. FUN, FUN, FUN to drive for such a large car. The engine is so powerful, it should be illegal in the United States (Im glad its not). For a car of this size, the space frame makes it feel incredible light and nimble, but solid as a rock. I live in the mountains of Utah and the Quattro is a must have. I forsee myself buying A8s for many years to come.