Despite global events, there are going to be a large number of new car releases in 2022 and details will be revealed soon. First out of the blocks for the New Year however is not a new car but a heavily revised prestige model, the A8; flagship of the Audi range and one of the most technologically advanced cars on the market.
On The Outside
With a sharpened design, particularly at either end and with innovative technologies, Audi have added an increased road presence and sporty elegance to the 5.19 metre-long A8 luxury saloon. The new high-end headlights and tail-lights offer innovative functions: Digital Matrix LED headlights use DMD technology (DMD stands for digital micro-mirror device apparently. Each headlight has approximately 1.3 million micro-mirrors that break down the light of a particularly powerful LED into tiny pixels). This allows the lighting to be controlled with a high level of precision and resolution, essentially a carpet of light that illuminates the driver’s own lane particularly brightly.
The enhanced A8 also comes standard with digital OLED (organic light-emitting diode) tail-lights that work in conjunction with the driver assistance systems, and feature proximity detection. If other road users approach the stationary A8 from behind to within two meters, all of the OLED segments are activated automatically.
Beyond the basic exterior, Audi has the option to add a chrome exterior package and the new S-Line exterior package, giving the appearance of the more sporting S8 variant. The latter gives the front end a dynamic touch and differentiates it even more from the base model, with distinctive blades in the area near the side air intakes complementing the front view.
On The Inside
Today’s automotive trend seems to be that our cars must fit seamlessly into day-to-day life and be able to meet as many of our needs as possible at all times. This is why a versatile, comfortable and connected interior is becoming increasingly important.
Consider the interior of this prestige saloon to be an alternative to a spacious, luxurious lounge. The design statement is strictly horizontally-oriented to emphasize its width. When it’s dark, the ‘ambient light package plus’ elegantly lights the interior adding reading lights in the rear that use Matrix LED technology. The dashboard itself features two high-definition touchscreens: A 10.1” top screen and 8.6” one below controlling most functions along with the multi-function steering wheel, while Bang & Olufson deliver the sounds.
The range of fully-electrically-adjustable seats and seat equipment in this latest model A8 is varied but always supremely comfortable of course. The back seats especially have many options available. The ‘relaxation’ seat in the A8 L (long wheelbase) offers numerous adjustment options and a heating, massaging footrest on the back of the passenger seat! How often do you see that feature? Your limousine is ready.
The fully-expected Audi high-quality workmanship underscores the A8 interior’s character. That goes for items like the precise perforations in the seat covers, the electrically opening and closing decorative trim, the air vent doors, or the velvety leather in the comfort headrests. The seats are upholstered with Valetta leather as a standard feature. Alternatively, Valcona leather is also available as an option. An optional ‘air quality’ package is available that ionises the air and adds fragrance.
On The Road
A variety of engine options are available with V6 petrol, diesel or petrol engines with mild-hybrid technology. For city drivers, the plug-in hybrid version is ideal as almost thirty miles of electric-only driving is available, making this the most efficient variant. All engines are really smooth, yet powerful, and all are mated to an equally silky eight-speed automatic gearbox. All-wheel-drive is standard across the range while the Vorsprung models also get four-wheel steering.
This car simply glides and is possibly the best ride in the luxury sector. The A8’s blend of performance, comfort and serenity are wedded to a beautifully built, practical and well-equipped interior. This is reflected in the prices which start at around £75,000 for new cars. If that’s outside the budget then consider other used car Audi models available from us here at MHH International that are available to import into Kenya, New Zealand and other destinations. See our stock listings or get in touch for the latest information.
