PRE FLIGHT BRIEFING I AUDI A8

⊲ Why is it here?

Through its four generations the A8 has provided the slightly sharper, more modern, less wood ’n’ leather alternative to the Merc and BMW (and the Lexus LS). The cabin in particular was right from the start, although the infotainment has evolved into a screen-based system that, for some, is too clever by half. The A8’s never been as dynamically sharp as you would hope.

⊲ Any clever stu ? Nothing but clever stu . In particular the predictive active suspension, which uses a lot of science to ease you on your way. The air suspension gains electromechanical actuators that respond to inputs from road-scanning sensors, anticipating poor surfaces and adjusting for cambers.

⊲ Which version is this? The 55 TFSI in Sport trim, with a relatively modest amount of extras. Plenty more extras are available, although for many the key to the Audi’s appeal is its lack of unnecessary ornamentation. It’s available with regular and long wheelbase, with 3.0-litre petrol or diesel, a 3.0-litre hybrid, plus the 4.0-litre V8 S8. Spec levels go from Sport to S Line to Black Edition to super-pricey Vorsprung.