The facelifted Audi A8 has been revealed, with more powerful engines and new LED headlight technology among the changes.
The revised A8, offered in two wheelbase lengths and with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, has made its debut at the Frankfurt motor show today ahead of its UK launch next January.
The optional new LED technology is called MatrixBeam. It features 25 individual LEDs that can be switched on or off or dimmed individually, depending on the road conditions. The lights also adapt around corners, feature indicators with sequential lighting and, when linked with an optional navigation and MMI infotainment system, use the sat-nav to adapt to corners, hills and road classifications.
Other exterior changes include new designs for the front and rear bumpers, bonnet, front grille and LED rear lights. A new boot layout is also offered to improve loading, and added insulation in the dampers reduces interior noise levels. New trims, colours and connectivity and technology options feature inside.
The petrol engine line-up includes a 306bhp 3.0-litre V6, 429bhp 4.0-litre V8, 493bhp 6.3-litre W12 and 513bhp 4.0-litre V8 (for the S8). The diesels are a 254bhp 3.0-litre TDI and a 380bhp 4.2-litre TDI. A hybrid version mixes a 2.0-litre TFSI petrol engine with an electric motor for combined figures of 242bhp, 44.8mpg and 147g/km.
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All of Audi's current saloons
All of Audi's current saloons are attractive looking, if a bit staid in the typical German mould, but while it's one thing have a family look, it's quite another for every model to share virtually every styling cue, albeit in different sizes and degrees. They all have the full length crease from nose to tail, they all have the pronounced crease at the base of the doors, they all have high-mounted rear lights of similar design (with the number plate in a similar position to the lights) and they all have a similar front light design.
At least, for example, Mercs look different but still have a family look and are recognisable as a Merc. Perhaps there is some logic in Audi naming their models after photocopying paper sizes (albeit in a reverse order).
Is there sense in Ingolstadt?
Tesla brings us Model S. Mercedes hybridises S-Class. Even Range Rover musters a hybrid that slips this 4WD behemoth well under 200g/km.
And what does Audi bring us? More power and new lighting!
hmmm
I drivean Audi A4, from the rear 3/4 it looks pretty much exactly like the revised A8 ... if i am going to spend nearky 4 times or more to buy an A8..i really want it to look a little more special than my A4. It doesnt have to llok brash or shout look at me, but atleast have abig feel good wow factor.