The 10 Second Review
The Audi A8 is a stylish car that looks confident without being too flashy. It’s just as roomy and comfy as other top sedans like the BMW 7-series and Mercedes-Benz S-class, but the inside controls are laid out in a more straightforward way. There’s only one engine choice, a strong V6 that’s quiet, unlike some rivals’ faster but noisier engines. The A8 is all about keeping things peaceful inside, with lots of soundproofing to make the ride super quiet. Even though it’s built for comfort, the A8 can still be fun to drive on curvy roads. It handles well for its size and can turn corners surprisingly well.
Table of Contents
Pros
- Agile handling for its size
- Very quiet interior
- Loaded with technology
Cons
- Exterior design is too subtle
The In-Depth Review
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Unveiling only one engine option, the Audi A8 prioritizes polished performance over raw power. Its 335-horsepower V6, aided by a fuel-saving mild hybrid system, delivers a tranquil driving experience. This hushed operation stands in stark contrast to some competitors’ louder, faster engines. While our tests clocked the A8 from 0 to 100 kph in 5.3 seconds, a slight lag behind certain rivals, the emphasis here is on refined acceleration rather than neck-snapping speed.
Abundant pulling power even at low revs ensures effortless passing maneuvers without needing to push the engine hard. Audi’s signature blend of athleticism and comfort is further enhanced by an adaptable air suspension system. This allows drivers to tailor the ride to their preference, prioritizing either a smooth, luxurious experience or sharper handling for those twisty roads. The A8 transcends its specifications, offering a dynamic driving experience that seamlessly integrates exhilarating performance with unparalleled comfort.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Audi A8 prioritizes passenger comfort, offering plenty of space in both the front and rear seats thanks to its extended wheelbase. While the standard layout seats five, luxury seekers who plan to spend most of their time being chauffeured can opt for a special four-seat package.
This swaps the rear center seat for two power-adjustable thrones with heating, ventilation, massage, and even a foot massage function – all controlled from individual tablets. However, this rear-seat retreat comes at a cost though: the front passenger loses some power seat adjustments, and the trunk space shrinks to a modest 13 cubic feet, which is smaller than some rivals. The interior is undeniably luxurious, with a wide selection of leather and wood trim options. However, compared to its rivals, the A8’s cabin has a more understated and less opulent feel, mirroring the car’s exterior
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2024 A8 boasts Audi’s familiar infotainment system with two touchscreens: a 10.1-inch upper screen and an 8.6-inch lower haptic touchscreen. While most features are controlled through these screens or the steering wheel, a welcome holdover is the physical volume knob for easy audio adjustments. The dual touchscreens might seem overwhelming at first, but they’re responsive and customizable.
Owners can set up their preferred shortcuts on the lower screen, while the upper screen offers permanent buttons for navigation, weather, phone, and radio. Be warned, though, the touchscreens are fingerprint magnets. Standard features include multiple USB ports, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and even Amazon Alexa compatibility. An optional Wi-Fi hotspot keeps you connected, and Audi’s excellent Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster completes the tech package.
Price from AED 459,900
“Eerily quiet interior and handles like its half it’s weight!”
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