The new A8 in 2011 showed this year at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show. Both the standard and long wheelbase models have a variety of hardware, like a standard 372 horsepower 4.2-liter V8 FSI, eight-speed automatic tiptronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive.
The new 6.3 W12 to see next week in Beijing – It replaces the previous 6.0-liter engine – makes 494 horsepower and 461 pound-feet of torque. Together with the eight-speed transmission, says the Audi A8 L accelerates from zero to 60 mph in under 4.9 seconds and on the EU test cycle average of 20 mpg back. The top speed is electronically limited to 155 miles an hour.
Like the standard-wheelbase A8 L with optional sport differential and torque vectors are ordered, and a choice of 20 – or 21-inch wheels. The standard setup includes an adaptive air suspension and 19-inch wheels and tires.
Visually, the A8 L is hardly distinguishable from the standard A8, but it will offer optional LED illumination. The top-of-the-line A8 L W12 gets extra black and chrome trim and twin trapezoidal exhaust pipes integrated into the rear bumper.
The A8 L is longer than five inches longer than the A8, while the width and height are nearly identical. Most of this extra space between the wheels is given in the rear passenger area.
The rear doors are longer, allowing easier entry and exit, and the vehicle can be ordered with two different power seats with heating and ventilation. The optional Rear Seat Entertainment System features include a full-length console with separate controls for the four-zone air conditioning, a refrigerator, a folding table and a massage / adjustable seat with electrically adjustable footrest.
The cabin is finished with leather and wood, and there is a long list of extras, including a twin-panel panoramic glass roof, a 1400-watt Bang audio system with 19 speakers and a “navigation – plus system with a touch-sensitive controls equipped.
