Audi S8

The biggest, baddest, fastest and lightest S8 yet has arrived - filling both the role of the top A8 model and top S model for the Audi luxury lineup. For the latest generation this full-size performance sedan puts a new, downsized and uprated V8 to task along with a lightweight aluminum body for optimal performance and economy.

The S8 is powered by an all-new engine in the Volkswagen family, a 4.0-liter twin-turbo TFSI V8 that turns out 520 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque (from 1,700 to 5,500 rpm).


The S8 features the Audi Space Frame (ASF) body which is made almost entirely of aluminum. As a result, despite its size and extensive list of luxury features, the S8 weighs in at a relatively low 4,354 lbs. The body itself contributes just shy of 510 lbs to that total, which is about 220 lbs less than a comparable steel-body.

Stylistic details include a single-frame grille in platinum gray with eight double bars coated in chrome. Audi also makes use of an aluminum-look blade to make the bumper design appear sharper, while high-gloss black slats and aluminum-look ribs in the side air intakes add touches of style.

Wrapping around to the sides, one will find door handles with strips of aluminum and aluminum-look mirror houses, as well as body color trim strips on the sills. Out back, the S8 features a diffuser insert with a two-layer aluminum-look finish that is offset by platinum gray and frames two oval dual exhaust tips finished in a chrome-look finish.


As one would expect from a flagship Audi sedan, the S8 comes complete with an impeccable fit and finish - says the automaker - featuring luxury bits with sport-minded driving at heart throughout. Seats come wrapped in leather, but are sporty in their shape and style, complete with multi-way, power adjustability and are exclusive to the S8 model. Stitching and piping come in steel gray for added contrast, while the instrument panel upper inlays and tiptronic gear selector lever are finished in Carbon Atlas.

The competitor to the S8:
- The Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, which provides a similar mix of luxury and performance.
- The Jaguar XF equipped with the special order-only Supersport package and the V12-powered
- BMW 760Li serve up comparable power but otherwise lack the Audi's more overt sporting focus.

The Basic Specs:
Drivetrain All Wheel Drive
Curb Weight (lbs) 4641
City (MPG) TBD
Hwy (MPG) TBD
Horsepower 520@6000
Torque (lb-ft) 481@5500
Wheelbase 117.8
Length (in.) 202.2
Width (in.) 83.1
Height (in.) 57.5

Overall, The S8 has too much luxuries, too little sport. Good engine, though.