We take a spin in Audi's full-size sport sedan.
The Predictive Active Suspension is the car’s best party trick, and it’s part of the update. It’s no longer available for the regular A8, and it becomes optional rather than standard on the S8. As an added bonus the system can detect an impending side collision and raise that side of the car 3.1 inches so the structure can better absorb the impact. Given the safety factor and S8’s dual personality that combines luxury with sportiness, it’s certainly worth the $6,000 investment.
From behind the wheel, the S8 rivals the BMW 7-Series for sportiness, especially in Dynamic mode. The flat handling is obvious, but the car also turns in sharply and rotates willingly. Rear-axle steering that can turn the rear wheels 5.0 degrees opposite of the fronts at speeds up to 37 mph shortens its turning radius and the active rear differential chips in as well. The steering starts out light but firms up with speed and provides quick, direct responses.
To help save fuel, the V-8 features cylinder-deactivation and mild-hybrid technology. Still, fuel economy for this high-powered, 5,126-lb sedan is a weakness at 14 mpg city, 23 highway and 17 combined.The cabin has a dual personality of its own, but this time it’s a mix of luxury and technology. It still sports 13.1-inch a digital instrument cluster and 10.1- and 8.6-inch touchscreens with haptic feedback for the infotainment system, but this year the processing speed improves by a factor of 10.
Front-seat occupants have copious space with 22-way power adjustments to dial in an ideal seating position. The S8 comes only in the extended-length body style, so rear-seat space is generous as well, and it can get even more comfortable with a Rear Seat Comfort package that adds rear-seat heating, cooling, massage, heated armrests, and a power recline function.
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