Audi S8

Overview: Is the Audi S8 a Good Luxury Performance Sedan?

The Audi S8 is the high-performance variant of Audi's flagship A8 luxury sedan, blending opulent comfort with exhilarating power. The S8's history in the U.S. market has been intermittent but memorable. It appeared briefly from 2001 to 2003, returned from 2007 through 2009 as part of the second generation (D3), and resurfaced for the 2013 model year with the third generation (D4), offered through 2018. The current (D5) generation reached U.S. shores starting with the 2020 model year. This overview covers the D3 and later editions.

Crafted in Ingolstadt, Germany, the S8 is the flagship of Audi's sedan lineup, competing with other high-performance luxury limousines like the BMW M760i and Mercedes-AMG S63.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Audi S8 cars for sale.

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Key Features

The Audi S8 offers:

• Full-size sedan body style
• Powerful V8 or V10 engines (depending on generation)
• Quattro all-wheel drive system
• Adaptive air suspension
• Advanced driver assistance technologies (varying by year)
• Available long-wheelbase option (varying by year)

Trims

Audi typically offers the S8 in a single, well-equipped trim level. However, various option packages allow for personalization:

• Executive package: Enhances rear-seat luxury
• Dynamic package: Adds performance features like ceramic brakes
• Black optic package: Provides darker exterior accents

The Audi S8 Plus, available in the D4 generation, offered increased power and exclusive features.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The S8’s cabin is the definition of refined luxury, thanks to the fine leather, Alcantara suede, and genuine wood or carbon fiber trim. The front seats offer 22-way adjustability in newer editions, including massage functions, ensuring comfort on long journeys or spirited drives. Audi's MMI infotainment system takes center stage. The latest models incorporate a dual-screen setup, with the lower screen handling climate controls and vehicle settings. Despite its performance credentials, the S8 doesn't skimp on practicality. The spacious trunk offers ample room for luggage, while the rear seats provide limousine-like comfort, especially in long-wheelbase variants.

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How It Drives

Size doesn’t limit the S8’s ability to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. Engine options have varied across generations:

• D3 (2007-2009): 5.2-liter V10 with 450 hp
• D4 (2013-2018): 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with 520 hp (563 hp in S8 Plus)
• D5 (2020-present): 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with mild hybrid system, producing 563 hp

The latest generation can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds, and its top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph (or higher with optional packages).

Audi's Quattro all-wheel drive system ensures optimal traction in various conditions, while the adaptive air suspension balances comfort and sportiness. Despite its substantial size, the S8 feels remarkably agile, thanks to features like rear-wheel steering and a sport differential.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not rated the Audi S8.

Reviews

Audi S8 reviews on Kelley Blue Book are mostly stellar, with consumers giving an average rating of 4.8 to 5 out of 5 across the three most recent generations. Scores for traits like reliability, performance, comfort, and quality are also strong.

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Audi S8 FAQs

Does the Audi S8 have a V10?

The second-generation (D3) Audi S8, sold in the U.S. from 2007 to 2009, featured a 5.2-liter V10 engine. Subsequent generations have used V8 engines. The V10 was borrowed from the Lamborghini Gallardo and saw duty in the Audi R8 supercar.

What is the Audi S8 price?

A new Audi S8 starts at $123,400. According to CoPilot marketplace information, a used Audi S8 costs $20,000 to $120,000, depending on age, condition, and equipment.

Which is better, the Audi S8 or the Audi A8?

Compared to the Audi A8, the S8 offers significantly more performance but at a higher price point. The choice depends on individual preferences for luxury vs. sportiness.

What is the 0 to 60 time for the Audi S8?

The current Audi S8 (D5 generation) can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in approximately 3.8 seconds.

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