Audi A8
Used Car Review

Overview

Thinking about a luxury saloon that truly means business? The Audi A8 might be exactly what you’re looking for. This flagship executive saloon represents the pinnacle of German engineering and refinement, offering an unparalleled blend of cutting edge technology, supreme comfort, and understated elegance. It’s the car for discerning drivers who demand the very best without the need for flashy displays of wealth.

From the moment you see it, the A8 commands respect. Its imposing yet elegant presence on the road sets it apart from rivals like the Mercedes S-Class or BMW 7 Series. The signature single frame grille and sleek LED lighting create an unmistakable silhouette that speaks of luxury and authority. But the real magic happens when you step inside. The cabin is a masterclass in premium materials and advanced technology, with virtually every surface crafted from the finest leather, wood, and metal.

Driving the A8 is a serene experience that redefines what luxury travel should be. The sophisticated air suspension glides over road imperfections while the whisper quiet cabin cocoons you in absolute comfort. Advanced driver assistance systems work seamlessly in the background, making even the longest journeys feel effortless. While it commands a premium price, you’re investing in automotive excellence that few can match. The A8 proves that true luxury lies in the details, delivering an ownership experience that justifies every penny.

What's the Audi A8 Like to Drive?

The Audi A8 is engineered to deliver effortless power with uncompromising refinement. The range features sophisticated powertrains including a 3.0 litre TFSI V6 producing 340 horsepower and a potent 4.0 litre V8 generating 460 horsepower in the S8. Even the entry level model accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds, delivering smooth and linear power delivery that makes overtaking feel effortless. The optional mild hybrid system enhances both performance and efficiency without compromising the driving experience.

Where the A8 truly excels is in its composed and sophisticated road manners. The adaptive air suspension continuously adjusts to road conditions, providing a magic carpet ride that isolates occupants from road imperfections. At low speeds, the steering is light and precise, making parking this large executive saloon surprisingly manageable. On the motorway, it feels planted and secure, with excellent high speed stability. The quattro all wheel drive system provides reassuring traction in all conditions, making this flagship sedan equally capable on winding country roads or urban streets.

How Comfortable Is the Audi A8?

Open the door and you immediately understand why the A8 sits at the top of the Audi hierarchy. This is one of the finest interiors in the luxury saloon class. The dashboard features a stunning dual touchscreen setup for the MMI infotainment system, while the Virtual Cockpit provides crisp digital displays directly in your line of sight. Materials throughout are exemplary, with hand selected leather, genuine wood trim, and brushed aluminium creating an atmosphere of refined luxury. Every switch and control operates with the precision you’d expect from a flagship model.

The seating is nothing short of exceptional, with multi way adjustment, heating, cooling, and massage functions as standard. Rear seat passengers are treated to limousine levels of space and comfort, especially in the long wheelbase A8 L variant. The cabin is remarkably quiet, with sophisticated sound deadening creating a serene sanctuary from the outside world. Advanced features like four zone climate control, ambient lighting, and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system elevate the experience further. This is a car that makes every journey, whether five minutes or five hours, feel like a first class experience.

The Audi A8 is an exceptional choice for buyers who prioritize technological innovation and understated luxury. It successfully combines cutting edge features with traditional Germanic build quality and engineering excellence. The interior sets new standards for materials and craftsmanship, while the advanced driver assistance systems make it one of the most sophisticated cars on the road. Performance is impressive across the range, delivering the perfect blend of power and refinement. The trade off comes with higher running costs and a premium purchase price that puts it firmly in luxury territory. However, this isn’t a car for casual buyers. It’s designed for discerning customers who appreciate the finer details and are willing to invest in automotive excellence. The A8 succeeds brilliantly in its mission to provide flagship luxury with cutting edge technology. If you’re seeking the ultimate expression of Audi’s capabilities and have the budget to match, the A8 is an outstanding choice that delivers on every promise.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run an Audi A8?

As a flagship luxury vehicle, the Audi A8 comes with premium running costs that reflect its sophisticated engineering and advanced technology. Fuel economy ranges from 28 to 35 mpg depending on the engine choice, which is respectable for a car of this size and performance. The V6 models offer the best economy while still delivering impressive performance. Insurance costs will be substantial due to the high value and powerful engines, typically falling into higher insurance groups.

The initial purchase price positions the A8 firmly in luxury territory, starting from around £86,000 for the standard model. However, this investment brings you cutting edge technology, exceptional build quality, and strong residual values. Servicing costs align with other premium German brands, though Audi’s comprehensive warranty and excellent dealer network provide peace of mind. When you consider the advanced features, superior comfort, and prestige that comes with ownership, the A8 represents solid value in the luxury saloon sector, especially with flexible car finance options available.

Audi A8 Practicality & Boot Space

For such a luxurious and sophisticated vehicle, the Audi A8 proves surprisingly practical for daily use. The 505 litre boot is generous enough for several large suitcases or a full weekly shop, while the rear seats fold down to accommodate longer items when needed. Inside the cabin, you’ll find numerous storage compartments for phones, tablets, and personal items. The long wheelbase L version offers even more rear passenger space, making it ideal for chauffeur driven duties or family use.

Where the A8 really shines is in its versatility. The rear seats offer genuine comfort for adult passengers on long journeys, making it perfect for business travel or family holidays. The advanced infotainment system keeps everyone connected and entertained. For executives or families who prioritize comfort and prestige, the A8 delivers exceptional space utilization. While it may not match some rivals for pure boot capacity, it offers a perfect balance for those seeking luxury without compromise, standing out among other used Audi cars in terms of sophistication and capability.

The Audi A8 stands as the ultimate expression of luxury, technology, and engineering excellence in the executive saloon segment. It combines Audi’s renowned build quality with innovative features and exceptional comfort levels that few rivals can match. The sophisticated powertrains deliver impressive performance while maintaining refinement, and the advanced chassis systems provide both comfort and dynamic capability when required.

You choose the A8 when you want the very best automotive technology wrapped in understated luxury. Its combination of cutting edge features, supreme comfort, and prestigious ownership experience makes every journey memorable. Whether you’re driving yourself or being driven, the A8 delivers an unparalleled experience that justifies its premium positioning. For those seeking the pinnacle of German automotive engineering, especially among luxury saloons under £100,000, the Audi A8 represents the gold standard.