CHANGES FOR 2013:
-S8 high-performance model
-new V8 engines, and first-ever gasoline V6
-engine start-stop and cylinder deactivation functions
-available hands-free trunk release
-available top and corner view camera (S8)
-available LED headlights
-available heated steering wheel
-new sport design package
-new sport plus package
-optional 20-inch summer tires on A8
For 2013, Audi’s all-wheel-drive full-size sedan receives no fewer than three all-new engines, and an all-new S8 high-performance model. The regular- and long-wheelbase A8s can now be had with a supercharged 333-hp V6 or a 420-hp twin-turbo V8. The A8L W12, with its 500-hp 6.3L A8, can only be had in long-wheelbase form. To differentiate itself from its mid-size S6 and S7 siblings, the full-size S8 gets a 100-hp boost—now totaling 520—from the same 4.0L V8. Although the A8’s subtle styling has critics whining it looks like a bigger A4, the largest Audi sedan delivers sporty and refined driving personality that belies its extremely roomy and stylish interior.
The A8 3.0T starts out with 19-inch wheels, Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights and taillights, brushed aluminum and walnut inlays, Audi connect, auto-dimming interior mirror, headlight washers, electric rear window sunshade, garage door opener, 18-way heated power front seats with memory, Bluetooth, adaptive air suspension, engine start-stop function, auto-dimming and power-folding outside mirrors, Bose stereo, navigation with MMI controller, dual-zone climate control, pushbutton start, electric steering column adjustment, four-spoke multifunction steering wheel with shift paddles, sunroof, and music interface with iPod cable.
Long-wheelbase A8L 3.0T trim adds four-zone climate control, rear window sunshades, power trunk, power-closing doors, intelligent keyless entry and park assist with backup camera.
A8 and A8L 4.0T models come with similar standard equipment.
S8 models build on the A8 3.0T and add 21-inch wheels, sport rear differential, dynamic steering, adaptive air suspension with unique tuning, unique bumpers, alu-optic mirror housings, LED headlights, top-view camera, high-beam assistant, dual-pane side windows, three-spoke steering wheel with shift paddles, carbon atlas inlays and shifter, alcantara headliner, Valcona leather interior, 22-way sport seats with ventilation and massage functions, diamond stitching, leather-trimmed centre console, armrests and airbag cover, four-zone climate control, power rear and side window sunshades, intelligent keyless entry, power trunk, front and rear park assist and soft-close doors.
The A8 W12 builds on the A8L 4.0T and add 20-inch wheels, LED headlights, dynamic steering, stainless steel door sills, camera assistance package, Valcona leather interior, Alcantara headliner, rear-seat entertainment package, acoustic and break-resistant dual-pane glass, active noise cancellation and cylinder deactivation, panoramic sunroof, chrome trim, cold weather package, rear seat comfort package and fixed rear console (with four-passenger configuration), piano black and brushed aluminum inlays and a six CD/DVD changer.
