Audi's A8 has long been the big saloon to choose if discretion and understatement work for you. Is that still the case? Jonathan Crouch looks at what's on offer from the revised version of the fourth generation design.

Ten Second Review

The improved version of Audi's fourth generation A8 is smarter, more efficient and well up to the segment standard in its use of autonomous driving technology. Better established badges in this sector may be tempting, but they often can't offer some of the features this car brings to the full-sized Luxury saloon segment: all-wheel steering and an active suspension system are just a couple of examples. In short, there ought to be enough here to please the most demanding boardroom buyer.

Background

Audi is used to winning. It's got extremely good at it, continuing to push technological boundaries wherever it can to stay a step ahead of its rivals. And the best place to see Vorsprung Durch Teknic at work? Well it has to be here doesn't it, with the brand's top A8 large luxury saloon, further improved in this evolved fourth generation form. It's hard to remember now, but prior to this A8's original launch back in 1994, Audi wasn't really considered a fully-fledged prestigious brand. Its cars generally languished in the corner of your local Volkswagen dealer's showroom and appealed to those who couldn't quite stretch to the products of the smarter German makers. The first generation A8 changed all of that, a car the like of which the luxury segment had never seen before. Aluminium spaceframe technology from NASA. 4WD quattro technology from the World Rally Championship. And exquisite standards of build quality that redefined what boardroom buyers could expect from a European luxury car. At a stroke, it put posh rivals on the back foot - and Audi has never looked back since. The second and third generation A8 saloon merely perfected the recipe, but this MK4 'D5'-series model, first launched in 2017, took a real step forward once again. Has Audi further perfected it in this facelifted form? Let's find out.

Driving Experience

The array of engines you get in the latest A8 is pretty mouth-watering and as before, everything's mated to 8-speed tiptronic auto transmission and quattro 4WD. As before, the mainstream line-up is based around two V6 turbo engines. Either a 3.0 TDI diesel (in the 50 TDI) with 286PS: or a 3.0 TFSI petrol unit (in the 55 TFSI) with 340PS. A 60 TFSIe quattro PHEV variant is also offered, this derivative mating a 3.0 TFSI petrol engine with an electric motor to achieve a 462PS output and 700Nm of torque. The 60 TFSIe now has a much larger 14.4kWh battery for a longer all-electric driving range and goes from rest to 62mph in just 4.9s. The other option is the S8, which uses a 571PS 4.0-litre petrol V8 and generates 800Nm of torque. The S8 sprints to 62mph in just 3.8s. On the move, dynamic all-wheel steering complements the standard quattro permanent all-wheel drive system and buyers also get Audi AI active suspension, a fully active suspension set-up. Depending on the driver's wishes and the driving situation, it is capable of raising or lowering each wheel separately with electric actuators. This newfound latitude enables it to deliver the polished ride comfort of a classic luxury saloon and the taut, composed agility of a more driver-oriented performance car in equal measure. It's clever. It's an Audi. What else did you expect?

Design and Build

This fourth generation A8 signalled the beginning of a new design era for the entire brand and this revised model aims to continue that visual evolution. To that end, there's a larger Singleframe front grille, a restyled front bumper, smarter side skirts and a sleeker rear valance at the back. The LED headlamps are also restyled - and can be upgraded to Audi's latest Digital Matrix LED status where each light unit contains 1.3 million micro mirrors. The smarter rear lights meanwhile, have a built-in proximity sensor which activates them if a following vehicle gets too close. As before, two bodystyles are available, the 5.17-metre 'standard' version and the A8 L, which has a 13cm-longer wheelbase. Inside, occupants can also now relax in even more sublime surroundings, with every detail radiating superlative bespoke quality - from the perforation in the seat upholstery to the electrically opening and closing shutters on the air vents. Up-front, the instrument panel is largely free of buttons and switches. As before, there's a 12.3-inch Digital Cockpit instrument screen, plus two centre monitors, a 10.1-inch one for the media functions and a lower 8.6-inch unit just for the climate controls. All three screens now run on updated software. As ever, the most sought-after seat in this Audi flagship model could quite possibly be the rear left - the optional relaxation seat in the A8 L that comes with four different adjustment options and a footrest. In this seat, the passenger can warm and massage the soles of their feet on a unit with multiple settings incorporated into the back of the front-passenger seat.

Market and Model

Prices start at just under £75,000 - add £4,000 if you want the lengthier long wheelbase bodystyle. There are two main trim levels, 'Sport' and 'S line', then top 'Black Edition' for standard shape models and 'Vorsprung' for long wheelbase models. At the top of the range, the S8 costs around £103,000. Across the range, there's an improved "Hey Audi" voice control system and media connectivity is now served by a faster MIB 3 software system. Plus online and Car-2-X services from Audi connect augment the navigation system. Unlike in an S-Class, you can add rear seat screens - two 10.1-inch HD monitors attached to the front seat backs. Standard drive tech includes the 'Tour' assist package, which includes adaptive cruise assist - this adjusting longitudinal and lateral guidance throughout the vehicle's speed range. The optional 'City' assist package includes intersection assist, cross-traffic assist, side assist, exit warning, and the Audi pre sense 360° safety system, which induces a side crash enhancement in combination with the active suspension. As before, there's also an optional 'Park' package, which includes remote park assist. This can autonomously steer the A8 into and out of a parking space or a garage, while the manoeuvre is monitored by the driver standing outside the car, controlling things via his or her smartphone and the myAudi app. It broadcasts a live feed of the parking manoeuvre taken from the car's 360-degree cameras onto the owner's handheld device for easy monitoring.

Cost of Ownership

All the conventional A8 engines operate in conjunction with a belt alternator starter, which is the nerve centre of the 48-volt electrical system. This mild hybrid technology enables the car to coast with the engine switched off, and to restart smoothly. It also has an extended start/stop function and an energy recovery output of up to 12kW. The combined effect of these measures is to improve efficiency substantially. Let's get to the WLTP figures. The 50 TDI diesel delivers up to 40.9mpg on the combined cycle and up to 180g/km of CO2. The 55 TFSI petrol version manages up to 28.8mpg and 223g/km. For ultimate efficiency though, you'll want to talk to your Audi Centre about the A8 60 TFSIe quattro version, which uses a powerful plug-in petrol/electric hybrid drivetrain. Depreciation in this sector is traditionally severe, especially where the more expensive models are concerned, but Audi residuals are usually strong.

Summary

We're in no doubt that this is the kind of car Audi should be making. The brand built its reputation on technology, then fell back on stylistic design and cool marketing to sell its products. This fourth generation A8 signalled a welcome change of direction - and this improved version continues that evolutionary trend. Of course, there are always going to be those who'll prefer the heritage and elegance of a Mercedes S-Class. Or the slightly more dynamic demeanour of a BMW 7 Series. We also think that both of these rivals make a slightly more distinctively upper-class statement - though you may disagree. The whole point though, is that an A8 ought to be a more futuristically modern boardroom conveyance - which is the kind of experience the enhanced version of this MK4 model sets out to offer. Whatever your perspective, it's a formidable Luxury segment contender and a fitting showcase for Audi's most advanced engineering. But is it a car that you could bond with, a luxury conveyance to love as well as admire? The answer depends upon the owner of course. Some may still see this A8 as being a little remote compared to a status-conscious Mercedes or a proudly opulent BMW. We're guessing though, that a small but significant number of boardroom buyers might now find this Audi a surprisingly complete all-round choice, were they to be minded to consider one. Hugely capable, innovative and beautifully built, this is the car that rivals always feared Audi would build. And if you're in this market, it's one you need to try.

Body Glass

Electric front windows

Heated rear window

Privacy glass

Electric rear windows with isolation switch

Heated windscreen washer jets

Front wash/wipe with interval delay

Acoustic double glazing

Heat insulating darkened glass in side and rear windows

Electric sunblinds for rear window and rear door windows

Heat insulating glass windscreen

Brakes

Anti-slip regulation traction control

Electronic Differential Lock + traction control

Anti-lock Brake System and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution

Electronic Stability Programme

Electromechanical parking brake

Black brake calipers

Front and rear disc brakes

Carpets/Rugs

Front floor mats

Rear floor mats

Chassis/Suspension

Adaptive air suspension

Communication

Bluetooth interface

Audi connect safety and service (e-call)

Audi smartphone interface with app store includes wireless Apple carplay, Android auto and Amazon alexa integration

Driver Aids

Electro - mechanical power assisted steering

Audi drive select

Camera based traffic sign recognition

Adaptive cruise control with cruise assist, emergency assist, efficiency assist, swerve assist, turn assist and speed limiter

Driver Convenience

Remote fuel filler release

Power door closure

Convenience key

Power operated tailgate

Operating buttons in black, glass look with haptic feedback including extended aluminium look

Driver Information

Service interval indicator

Head up Display

'Lights On' Reminder warning buzzer

Audi virtual cockpit

MMI navigation plus with MMI touch + Twin touch screens with haptic feedback

Driving Mirrors

Automatic dimming rear view mirror

Body colour exterior mirror housings

Electrically adjustable heated folding + automatically dimming exterior mirrors with memory function and integrated LED indicators

Embellishment Trims

Piano black finish upper inlays

Dark matt brushed aluminium lower inlays

Engine

Diesel particulate filter

24 litre AdBlue tank

82 litre fuel tank

48V Mild hybrid technology

Entertainment

DAB digital radio module

Audi music interface

USB connection

MMI radio plus

Exterior Body Features

Body colour bumpers

Audi space frame

Rear side wing doors

Rear boot

Exterior Lights

LED brake lights

LED daytime running lights

High beam assist

LED third brake light

Headlight cleaning system

OLED rear lights with changeable rear light signature

Welcome/leaving lighting

All-weather, manoeuvring, position, static cornering, turning and motorway lights with automatic dynamic headlight range control

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Dust/pollen filters

2 zone automatic air conditioning

Interior Features

Leather gearknob

Centre console with cupholders

Roof mounted sunglasses holder

Door pockets with bottle holder

Passenger footwell storage net

Black cloth headlining

Height/reach electric steering column with easy exit function

12V socket

Comfort centre armrest

Glove compartment cooling

Valcona leather upholstery with front sports seats in diamond quilted with S embossed logo

Stainless steel pedals and footrest

Illuminated door sill trims with aluminium inlays and S diamond emblem

Interior S Line Badging

Interior Lights

Reading lights

Audi phone box light

Packs

Extended LED Interior multi coloured light pack - A8

High gloss styling pack - A8

S line exterior styling pack - A8

Chrome exterior pack - A8

Technology pack - A8

Safety

Active front headrest system

Warning triangle and first aid kit

Rear child proof door locks

Driver/Front Passenger airbags

3 point seatbelts on all rear seats

Front passenger airbag deactivation

Tyre pressure loss indicator

Extended pedestrian protection measures

Front and rear side airbags with head airbag system

Audi pre sense basic

Seatbelt reminder + electric contact in buckle + advanced safety equipment

Audi pre sense front

Seats

Heated front seats

Rear headrests

Electric front seats with memory function

4 way electric lumbar support for driver and front passenger

Isofix child seat mounting points on outer rear seats

3 seat rear bench with centre armrest in 2nd row

Single front passenger seat

Security

Remote central locking

Anti-theft wheel bolts and wheel loosening detection

Anti theft alarm tow away protection

Transmission

Quattro all wheel drive with self locking centre differential

8 speed transmission with hill hold assist

Vanity Mirrors

Driver and front passenger side sunvisors with illuminated vanity mirrors

Emissions - ICE

HC: N

Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEL: 189

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEH: 195

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb: 192

Engine and Drive Train

Camshaft: DOHC

Gears: 8 SPEED

Transmission: SEMI-AUTO

Engine Layout: NORTH SOUTH

Catalytic Convertor: No

Fuel Delivery: COMMON RAIL

Cylinders: 6

Cylinder Layout: V6

Number of Valves: 24

CC: 2967

Fuel Consumption - ICE

WLTP - MPG - Comb: 38.7

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEL: 39.2

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEH: 37.7

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb: 7.3

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEL: 7.2

EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: 0

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEH: 7.5

General

Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?: 0

NCAP Child Occupant Protection %: N

Special Edition: 0

Special Order: 0

Based On ID: N

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 49E

Service Interval Mileage: 18000

Service Interval Frequency - Months: 24

NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %: N

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: 0

NCAP Pedestrian Protection %: N

NCAP Safety Assist %: N

NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09: N

Badge Power: 286

Badge Engine CC: 3.0

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

AdBlue: No

Generation Mark: 4

Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 3

Coin Description: TDI Quattro

Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage: 60000

Manufacturers Paintwork Guarantee - Years: 3

Coin Series: S Line [Tech Pack]

Manufacturers Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years: 12

Performance

Engine Torque - MKG: 61.2

Engine Power - PS: No

Engine Power - BHP: 286

0 to 62 mph (secs): 5.9

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

Engine Power - KW: 210

Engine Power - RPM: 3500

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 443

Engine Torque - NM: 600

Engine Torque - RPM: 2250

Top Speed: 155

Test Cycles

RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

Tyres

Tyre Size Front: 265/40 R20

Space Saver?: 0

Alloys?: No

Wheel Type: 20" ALLOY

Wheel Style: 5 TWIN ARM

Tyre Size Rear: 265/40 R20

Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT

Vehicle Dimensions

Wheelbase: 2998

Width (including mirrors): 2130

Height: 1473

Height (including roof rails): N

Width: N

Length: 5190

Weight and Capacities

Gross Vehicle Weight: 2710

Minimum Kerbweight: 2020

Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 82

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 2300

Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 750

Max. Loading Weight: 690

Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 505

No. of Seats: 5

Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 12.5

Luggage Capacity (Seats Down): N

Exterior Body Features

Pearlescent paint

Solid paint

Panoramic glass roof

Audi exclusive paint

Interior Features

Load through hatch

Heated twin-spoke leather multi-function steering wheel with shift paddles - 1XP

Packs

Leather pack - S8

City assist pack - A8

Extended leather pack - A8

Paint - Metallic

Metallic - Floret silver

Metallic - Mythos black

Metallic - Glacier white

Metallic - Firmament blue

Metallic - Madeira brown

Metallic - Ultra blue

Paint - Pearlescent

Pearl - Daytona grey

Paint - Solid

Solid - Sebring black

Solid - Brilliant black

Paint - Special

Audi Exclusive - Custom

Service/Warranty

Audi warranty - 4 years or 75000 miles

Audi warranty - 5 years or 90000 miles

Towing

Electrically swivelling trailer towing hitch

Trim - Leather

Valcona leather - Black with steel grey stitching + front sports seats in diamond quilted S embossed logo

Valcona leather - Merlot red with rock grey stitching + front sports seats in diamond quilted S embossed logo

Valcona leather - Cognac with steel grey stitching + front sports seats in diamond quilted S embossed logo

Wheels - Alloy

20" 10 parallel spoke design partly polished contrasting grey alloy wheels

20" 20 spoke design contrasting grey partly polished alloy wheels

20" 10 Y spoke anthracite black gloss turned finish alloy wheels

Wheels - Spare

Tool kit and Jack

Space saver spare wheel