2013 Audi A8 Expert Review
Reviewed by Staff Writer
Vehicle Overview
Large flagship sedans like the Audi A8 have traditionally been sold in the U.S. with engines consisting of eight cylinders or more. Automakers, however, are downsizing engines and the A8 is not immune to the trend. For 2013, the Audi A8 receives a new 3.0-liter supercharged V-6, which replaces the long-running 4.2-liter V-8 as the base engine. The V-6 is rated 333 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque and is mated to an eight-speed auto that sends power to all four wheels.
That said, we found the V-6 to be a suitable replace for the V-8. "The 2013 A8 L 3.0T feels just as good to drive as the old 4.2 does," we noted in a recent drive. "Its aluminum-intensive construction allows the big Audi to waft along the road feeling much lighter, smaller, and more tossable than any full-size luxury sedan has a right to." Other engine choices include a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 (420 hp and 444 lb-ft) and a monstrous 6.3-liter W-12 mill that churns out 500 hp and 463 lb-ft. Finally, the Audi S8 is also powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8, but produces 512-hp and 479 lb-ft. Speaking of which, the S8 is one of the fasted production cars Motor Trend has tested, running from 0-60 mph in a supercar-like 3.5 seconds.
The revised powertrain lineup complements the A8's interior, which is one of the most luxuriously crafted cabins in the segment. Long wheelbase models, for example, are available with an Executive Rear Seat package that adds a refrigerator, power-adjustable footrests, ventilated seats, and reclining back rests. "This is the first car that truly feels like sinking into a Lufthansa Business Class Seat," we said of the 2013 Audi A8 L 4.0. "This is one of the best seats in the entire automotive world to ride in."
The 2013 Audi A8 has not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.
New for 2013
The Audi A8 receives new engines for 2013. A 333-hp supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 serves as the base powerplant. The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 in the Audi S8 produces 512 hp and propels the large sedan from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.
Key Competitors
- Mercedes-Benz S-Class
- BMW 7 Series
- Lexus LS
- Jaguar XJ
Sum Up
Can be spec'd from mid to wild
