Skip advert
Advertisement

Audi A8

When it comes to finding cars which have big, torquey engines, Audi's A8 range is hard to beat. But now the firm has reached new heights. With a massive 650Nm, its 4.2 TDI model's twin-turbocharged V8 diesel has the same pulling power as a Lamborghini Murci�lago.

With sensational performance, excellent fuel economy and superb refinement, the new 4.2-litre TDI is a truly great engine. This is not only the best A8 in Audi's range, but one of the finest diesel cars in the world.

When it comes to finding cars which have big, torquey engines, Audi's A8 range is hard to beat. But now the firm has reached new heights. With a massive 650Nm, its 4.2 TDI model's twin-turbocharged V8 diesel has the same pulling power as a Lamborghini Murci�lago.

The huge peak is produced very low in the rev range and for longer than its 4.0-litre predecessor - from 1,600rpm up to 3,500rpm. This makes the amazing acceleration even more accessible.

Combined with extra power - up from 275bhp to 321bhp - a weight drop of 15kg and a new six-speed automatic gearbox, the results are sensational. The 0-60mph time is cut from 6.7 to 5.9 seconds, but it's the deep-chested thrust available at any speed and in any gear that impresses most.

Refinement is also superb, with little more than a smooth V8 rumble to be heard. The 29.4mpg combined economy figure is an improvement on that offered by the outgoing diesel, and gives the car the potential to travel in excess of 600 miles on a single tank. Carbon dioxide emissions are down 7g/km, although at 258g/km the new A8 is still in the top 35 per cent company tax band.

Downsides? The gearbox is jerky, and most buyers will be more than happy with the 3.0 TDI, which costs £48,365 as opposed to £58,605 for the 4.2-litre. Still, that's the same as Audi charged for the old 4.0 TDI, a car the newcomer betters in every area.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Audi A8

Audi A8

RRP £85,710Avg. savings £11,779 off RRP*Used from £23,599
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £2,921 off RRP*Used from £8,951
Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £23,990Avg. savings £2,192 off RRP*Used from £20,921
Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,672 off RRP*Used from £15,675
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught
Skoda Epiq vRS exclusive image

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught

Every future Skoda will get the go-faster treatment, with the brand also working on making cars sharper and more engaging
News
27 Jun 2025
Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy
Marcos, interior

Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy

Development is already underway on the first all-new Marcos cars in roughly 20 years
News
27 Jun 2025
Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal
BMW M5 Touring - front action

Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal

The BMW M5 Touring is M car royalty, with a thoroughly impressive PHEV powertrain. It’s our Deal of the Day for 29 June
News
29 Jun 2025