The Audi S8 may not have the flashy badge of its competitors, but it certainly makes up for it in performance and luxury. Priced at over $273,400 plus on-road costs, this “sleeper” sedan is capable of outperforming supercars while providing a comfortable and opulent ride for rear passengers.
The S8 features a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with 420kW of power and 800Nm of torque. It can go from 0-100km/h in just 3.8 seconds, an impressive feat considering its size and weight of 2230kg. Thanks to its 48v Mild-Hybrid Electric (MHEV) system and cylinder-on-demand (CoD) technology, the S8 is also surprisingly efficient, saving up to 0.8 litres per 100km in fuel consumption.
Handling is exceptional, thanks to Audi’s quattro permanent all-wheel drive system and torque distribution that can send up to 85% of power to the rear wheels. This allows the S8 to keep up with sportscars, making it a formidable rival to the likes of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series.
While its competitors have embraced futuristic interiors with large high-resolution displays, the S8 takes a more traditional approach. It focuses on craftsmanship and simplicity, offering a luxurious experience reminiscent of what luxury used to mean. The cabin features supple Valcona leather seats, premium carbon-fibre surfaces, and dark brushed aluminum inlays.
One standout feature is the predictive active suspension technology, which actively controls the vehicle body based on input from multiple sensors. This allows the S8 to quickly adjust its ride height and improve comfort and handling. The car also boasts advanced lighting technology, including HD Matrix LED headlights, dynamic indicators, and Audi laser lights.
In conclusion, the Audi S8 may not have the flashy badge or futuristic interior of its competitors, but it more than makes up for it with its exceptional performance, luxurious cabin, and advanced suspension and lighting technology. It is a true sleeper sedan that is sure to impress anyone who gets behind the wheel.
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– Original article by Ben McKimm – Review, published on 19 Sep 2023