Bigger A8 heads Audi’s new family

By Dan Strong

08th December 2009

It's Audi’s new light fantastic! The wraps have been pulled from the new A8 limousine, and it reveals a fresh look for the firm, which is crowned with advanced LED headlamps.

Described as a ‘technology flagship’, the A8 aims to lead its rivals when it comes to build quality, ride and handling. Crucially, the newcomer also promises to deliver the best fuel economy and lowest CO2 emissions in the sector. The latest A8 is larger and more powerful than ever, yet lighter and more efficient than the model it replaces.

In addition, it debuts Audi’s updated MMI cabin control set-up, which now includes a touch-sensitive pad that can be used to operate navigation functions. There’s also a larger LCD screen, plus a head-up display system that can recognise speed limits.

Audi has also responded to criticism that its cabins are too sombre. The model gets new interior trim, while coloured ambient lighting is available, and the gearlever and steering wheel have been redesigned to offer a more detailed look.

Engine choices include a development of the existing car’s 4.2 FSI petrol V8, plus a new 4.2-litre diesel emitting 199g/km of CO2 and delivering a healthy 800Nm of torque.

A new 3.0-litre TDI model, which has 550Nm of torque and promises combined fuel economy of 42.2mpg, is due later next year. This variant will also pave the way for an ultra-efficient 3.0 TDIe version, which should return 50mpg and put out 150g/km of CO2. A hybrid is also under development, but won’t be launched until 2011.

Technological highlights include an eight-speed auto and an accident prevention system that uses cameras to help the driver avoid trouble, plus an infra-red night vision camera.

The A8 arrives in the UK in April, and the range will start from around £50,000. The limo spearheads a raft of new Audis which cover every market sector.