The new Audi S8 combines progressive luxury with dynamic athleticism and innovative suspension systems and its now available in Mzansi to take on the 7-Series and upcoming S Class
The S part of the S8 means it gets a 420kw/800Nm 4.0-litre Twin-Turbo V8 engine which also has mild hybrid technology. The mild hybrid system (MHEV) works continuously to not only add on the performance but also reduce fuel consumption. Its 48-volt belt alternator starter and the additional lithium-ion battery enable coasting with the engine switched off, fast restart and an extended start-stop range. The engine combo at 420kW allows the limo to reach an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h and it takes just 3.8 seconds to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h. You will keep dong those sprints as the V8 sound is just evil courtesy of the automatically actuated flaps in the exhaust system. For added fuel savings of up to 0.8 litres per 100 kilometres, Audis cylinder on demand system deactivates individual cylinders in low-load operating situations.
The new S8 comes standard with the predictive active suspension. The high-tech system, which works in combination with the air suspension, can lift or push down each wheel separately via electromechanical actuators. It is therefore possible for the first time to actively control the trim of the body in any driving situation and thus greatly reduce pitch or roll during acceleration or braking. The front camera, which detects larger road surface irregularities, enables this to be done predictively. The new Audi S8 comes with drive select system which offers five profiles from which to choose with a new “Comfort +” mode. The S8 also comes with Audis Quattro all wheel drive system paired with dynamic all-wheel steering and centre locking differential for maximum traction and entertainment.
The S8 gets some new accents with the S line front bumper, side sills and the exterior mirror housings as well as the two S-typical twin oval exhaust tailpipes emphasize the car’s sporty and progressive character. The black styling package is also available as an option. With this, all chrome elements (matte aluminium styling package is standard on the sports model) – right down to the tailpipe trims – come in high-gloss black. With the optional extended black styling package, the Audi rings and nameplate will appear in glossy black as well. Wheels of 21 inches in diameter are available. Lighting options range up from the standard HD matrix LED headlights with dynamic turn signals to Audi laser light and OLED rear lights (optional extra) for precise and effective line of sight when driving.
The new Audi S8 comes standard with individually contoured comfort sports seats that feature wide-ranging power adjustment, pneumatically adjustable side bolsters and separate three-stage heating for each seat. What is more, they are available with ventilation in the front (standard) and massage function (optional). Upholstery is available in the top leather grade of Valcona. The rear seats also offer numerous features for outstanding passenger comfort and provide for a first-class atmosphere in the Audi S8. The optional adaptive cruise control with speed limiter, efficiency assist, swerve assist and turn assist combines key functions to allow for a comprehensive safety offering. Intelligent park assist, 360° camera and head-up display are a few of the key standard safety equipment in the new Audi S8.
The standard MMI touch response operating concept is fully digital where the driver controls nearly all functions via two large displays. The driver can also use natural speech control, which offers virtually unlimited freedom when formulating questions and commands. The answers are provided either from information stored on board. All driving-relevant displays appear in the standard Audi virtual cockpit plus, which can be switched between two views. While the tachometer and speedometer are displayed as large dial-type gages in driving mode, the map is the centre of attention in infotainment mode. Both views have S-specific red graphical details. A special S-performance layout for the Audi virtual cockpit plus where the central focus is the tachometer, displayed as a square graph, and the output and torque are shown as percentages can also be selected in the MMI. The standard head-up display can display important information on the windshield.
The downloadable myAudi app connects the car to the customer’s smartphone so that they can easily send destinations to the car from their couch as well as enjoy a host of other infotainment, safety and remote features. The standard Audi smartphone interface brings Android Auto and wirelessly Apple Car Play on board. High-end components such as the Bang & Olufsen premium sound system with 3D sound (optional upgraded to the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 3D sound) and the standard Audi phone box and ambient lighting package plus, round up the infotainment and interior comfort features line-up in the new S8.
The new Audi S8 comes standard with a five year Audi Freeway Plan:
Audi S8 TFSI quattro R2,484,000 S8