Audi goes as far as to promote its A8 as ‘the art of serenity’ and, to be frank, I would not disagree. If the expression used by motoring writers around the world, ‘Audi quality’, has any merit, it lies in a range of models, from A1 to A8, that is the envy of each of its rivals. Naturally, the A8 is the grandest expression of its exceptionally well-ordered and logical line-up.
For the first time in its history, the Audi A8 is now equipped with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain, which makes it capable of driving distances of up to 28.6 miles (measured in accordance with WLTP standards) in pure electric mode, thus turning a large portion of daily journeys into a locally emissions-free and near-silent driving experience (it also features a synthetic ‘e-sound’ to alert pedestrians). Its total power output of 445bhp (torque of 516lbs ft) ensures impressive performance characteristics conducted in complete comfort, while intelligent drive management delivers maximum efficiency (up to 113mpg) accurately through innovations such as freewheeling, brake energy recuperation and predictive navigational data.
The A8 L 60TFSIe quattro (long wheelbase) measures 5.30m in length and possesses a bootlid wide enough to carry the model nomenclature. It will be available to order in the UK very soon, with standard wheelbase models joining the range a few weeks later. First deliveries commence in early 2020. For what it is worth, the A8s are not dissimilar mechanically to the Audi A7 Sportback 55 TFSIe quattro, Q5 50 TFSIe quattro and Q5 55 TFSIe quattro SUVs, all of which have been available since September, at which time they signified the start of the brand’s commitment to its electrification programme.
A 3.0 TFSI engine provides the core power, accompanied by a ‘permanently excited synchronous machine (PSM)’, with a peak output of 100kW and a peak torque of 258lbs ft, as the electric drive. It is integrated with the clutch in the eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox, which transmits the power to the quattro all-wheel drivetrain. Its battery is positioned underneath the luggage compartment floor and consists of 104 pouch cells that are allocated to eight modules. The HV battery stores 14.1kWh of energy and delivers a total of 385V. The four-zone automatic air-con works with the heat pump, which uses the waste heat generated by the high-voltage components.
In ‘boost’ mode, the A8 hybrid accelerates from 0-60mph in 4.6s, before topping out at an electronically governed maximum of 155mph. The car can drive on electric power, up to a speed of 83mph, for up to 28.6 miles. Three digital and configurable display screens can display all aspects of the car’s power distribution. As to the rest of its super-luxury interior, the seat behind the front passenger can be configured to provide a legs-stretched ‘massage parlour’ for the rear occupant. No corners have been cut to provide the ultimate comfort and total driving pleasure.
