Audi A8 buyer’s guide
What to look out for on third-generation luxury limo
CONSIDERING Audi is one of the world’s more successful premium brands, it seems incredible that it wasn’t until 1988 that it launched its first luxury car, the V8.
By that time Audi’s rivals had been selling luxury saloons for many years, whereas Audi had offered only executive cars. The Audi V8 didn’t make much of an impact and the car arguably deserved a better fate, so when Audi created its successor, the A8, it came up with something altogether more special – an aluminium-bodied saloon packed with tech and standard four-wheel drive. That was in 1994, and since then Audi has raised the bar ever-further with each new generation of A8. Here we look at the third take on the formula.
History
THE A8 Mk3 arrived in UK showrooms in spring 2010, priced from £54,760. Buyers were able to choose between 4.2 FSI petrol or 3.0 TDI and 4.2 TDI diesel engines, all with an eight-speed automatic transmission; a 3.0 TFSI petrol engine was added soon after.
By February 2011 the long-wheelbase A8 L was available, stretched by 130mm but with the same engines, as well as a 6.3-litre W12 petrol option. An A8 hybrid arrived in autumn 2012, then soon after the 513bhp S8 appeared with a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8.
A refresh in January 2014 brought extra standard kit, including LED headlights, as well as Euro 6 emission compliance and extra driver-assistance systems. A further facelift in June 2014 added a Sport trim level and more efficient 3.0 TDI diesel.
Which one?
MOST A8s were sold with the 3.0 TDI engine which is just as well, since it’s the powerplant that offers the best blend of performance and economy. It’s all you need thanks to the relatively light aluminium body, which brings ultimate luxury in long-wheelbase form. At 5,265mm, the A8 L is a lengthy car; but even the standard A8 isn’t tight in the back.
Equipment is predictably generous, with the entry-level SE getting 18-inch alloys, adaptive air suspension, leather, electrically adjustable front seats, a highspec multimedia system with navigation, plus xenon lights. SE Executive adds a rear parking camera, 19-inch wheels and a powered boot lid, while L versions have heated rear seats, four-zone climate control and an electric tilt-and-slide sunroof.
Alternatives
THE hi-tech Mercedes S-Class is a formidable rival with peerless build quality, brilliant engines and a superb cabin. It’s the most popular car in its segment, so there are also plenty to choose from on the used market; no wonder it’s the chauffeur’s car of choice.
The BMW 7 Series is rarer, but shares the most important S-Class traits, while Jaguar’s XJ (2010-2019) has excellent petrol and
diesel engines and a choice of standard or long wheelbases. The radical looks don’t suit everyone but as the only other aluminium-bodied luxury car contender, fuel economy is a bit more palatable.
The Lexus LS (2012-2017) came in 4.6 V8 (LS 460) or 5.0-litre hybrid (LS 600h) forms. Both are incredibly refined, reliable and well equipped, but the Lexus is very rare.
Verdict
THE bigger they are the further they fall; that’s certainly the case for the A8, which cost plenty when new but can now be had for less than £10,000. Don’t be fooled into thinking you can run one for peanuts, though; these can be expensive cars to own when it comes to insurance and maintenance.
If you can afford the running costs there’s no reason not to buy an A8 other than brand loyalty; each contender in this segment is quite different in terms of design and driving experience. We’d say both of these are strong for the Audi, though, so if you’re in the market for a luxury saloon, put the A8 somewhere near the top of your list.