CLASS IS PERMANENT

The new Audi S8 combines progressive luxury with dynamic athleticism and innovative suspension systems as well as using specific design elements to express the sporty elegance of the sophisticated luxury sedan with pinpoint precision. The predictive active suspension, dynamic-all-wheel steering and Quattro drive with sport differential combines well to provide outstanding vehicle dynamics straight from the factory whilst on the other hand, it uses a combination of the MHEV technology for the perfect symbiosis of efficiency and comfort with exhilarating performance.

IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE

As a V8 engine with mild hybrid technology, the high-performance power-plant in the Audi S8 offers not only maximum smoothness but sublime responsiveness, with an output of 420 kW and 800 Nm of torque, delivered with the aid of two turbochargers. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h and it takes just 3.8 seconds to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h. automatically actuated flaps in the exhaust system underscore the impressive sound.

Sports car-level emotion and performance are paired with comfort and efficiency. The mild hybrid system (MHEV) works continuously to reduce fuel consumption. The cylinder on demand system, which deactivates individual cylinders in low-load operating situations, provides for additional efficiency.

VEHICLE DYNAMICS

The unique combination of innovative suspension components enables the flagship to cover the entire range from the velvety cruising of a luxury sedan to the dynamically taut handing of a sports car. The new S8 comes standard with the predictive active suspension. The high-tech system, which works in combination with the air suspension, can lift or push down each wheel separately via electromechanical actuators.

 It is therefore possible for the first time to actively control the trim of the body in any driving situation and thus greatly reduce pitch or roll during acceleration or braking. The Audi drive select system offers five profiles from which to choose. “Comfort +” mode is a new profile. It makes even cornering a comfortable experience: The body leans into curves by as much as 3 degrees to reduce the lateral acceleration acting on the occupants. In “dynamic” mode, the S8 turns in precisely. The situational distribution of roll moments enables self-steering that is neutral or minimally oversteering. The position of the S8’s body can be altered even when it is stationary. It is quickly raised by as much as 50 mm when the door handle is actuated, making getting into the car even easier and more comfortable.

The Audi S8 is redefining the limits of physical possibility thanks to the dynamic-all-wheel steering. This allows the independent adjustment of the steering angles at the front and rear axles. The sport differential actively transfers torque between the rear wheels during fast cornering.

STATE-OF-THE-ART SYSTEM

Every detail of the new Audi S8 reflects its character as a sporty luxury model. One particular highlight is the standard individually contoured comfort sports seats. The rear seats also offer numerous features for outstanding passenger comfort and provide for a first-class atmosphere in the Audi S8.

The many driver assistance systems that Audi provides in the new S8 ensure for a comfortable driving experience.  The brain behind the driver assistance systems in the new S8 is a high-performance processing unit, the central driver assistance controller (zFAS). It continuously computes a differentiated model of the vehicle’s surroundings based on the data provided by the sensors. Fully equipped, there are five radar sensors, six cameras, twelve ultrasound sensors and a laser scanner on board.

DIGITAL INTELLIGENCE

The new Audi S8 offers a progressive technology experience with new digital services and state-of-the-art connectivity. All driving-relevant displays appear in the standard Audi virtual cockpit plus, which can be switched between two views. While the tachometer and speedometer are displayed as large dial-type gages in driving mode, the map is the centre of attention in infotainment mode. Both views have S-specific red graphical details. A special S-performance layout for the Audi virtual cockpit plus can also be selected in the MMI. The standard head-up display can display important information on the windshield.

MMI navigation plus serves as the infotainment and media centre in the new S8. The downloadable myAudi app connects the car to the customer’s smartphone so that they can easily send destinations to the car from their couch as well as enjoy a host of other infotainment, safety and remote features. The standard Audi smartphone interface brings Android Auto and wirelessly Apple Car Play on board. High-end components such as the Bang & Olufsen premium sound system with 3D sound (optional upgraded to the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 3D sound) and the standard Audi phone box and ambient lighting package plus, round up the infotainment and interior comfort features line-up in the new S8.