Audi S8 Review

Mark Reynolds
28 Min Read

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Introduction to the Audi S8

The Audi S8 is the kind of car that makes you stop and take notice. It’s not just another luxury sedan—it’s a statement of engineering brilliance, precision craftsmanship, and unapologetic performance. Whether you’re an automotive enthusiast or just someone looking for the ultimate in refinement and speed, the S8 is here to deliver on all fronts. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this flagship sedan so special.

First things first, the Audi S8 is the high-performance version of Audi’s already impressive A8. But this is no ordinary upgrade—it’s a jaw-dropping transformation. Think of it as the A8’s more athletic, adrenaline-pumping sibling. While the A8 focuses on delivering a serene and luxurious ride, the S8 spices things up with unrelenting power, sharper handling, and a distinctive edge. It’s designed for those who demand more than just luxury—they want excitement, too.

A Legacy of Excellence

When you look at Audi’s history with performance sedans, the S8 stands out as a critical milestone. Originally introduced in the mid-1990s, the S8 has evolved over the years into a benchmark for other sport-luxury sedans. It blends the sophistication of Audi’s renowned design language with the robust capabilities of the German automaker’s engineering prowess. Simply put, the S8 isn’t just about getting from point A to B—it’s about enjoying every moment of the journey.

Who Is the Audi S8 For?

Are you someone who values luxury, but also craves the thrill of a high-performance engine? Do you want a car that can dominate the fast lane on the freeway but also keep you cocooned in comfort during long drives? If so, the Audi S8 might be the perfect match for you. It’s tailored for drivers who won’t settle for mediocrity and demand the best of both worlds—comfort and power, elegance and aggression.

  • It’s ideal for professionals who want a high-end executive sedan with a sporty twist.
  • It’s perfect for enthusiasts who need a machine that’s both exhilarating on the road and packed with premium touches.
  • It’s a great choice for anyone who appreciates cutting-edge automotive technology fused with timeless luxury.

What Makes the S8 Stand Out?

In a sea of luxury sedans, the Audi S8 holds its own thanks to its unique balance of speed, style, and sophistication. It’s not as brash as some competitors—it has a more understated approach that whispers power rather than shouting it. For many, that’s part of the charm. The S8’s subtle elegance is matched only by its capabilities, making it a car that works just as well arriving at a high-profile gala as it does carving through winding back roads.

Overall, the Audi S8 isn’t just another car—it’s an experience. From its rich heritage to its purpose-built design, it’s a sedan for the discerning driver who refuses to compromise. And this is just the beginning. As we dive deeper into its design, performance, and features, you’ll see why the S8 is truly in a league of its own.


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Exterior Design and Styling

When it comes to the Audi S8, it’s not just about what’s under the hood that impresses. The exterior design and styling of this luxury sedan are sure to turn heads wherever you go. From the sleek lines to the aggressive front grille, the S8 exudes a sense of sophistication and power.

Sleek and Sporty

The Audi S8 features a sleek and sporty design that sets it apart from other luxury sedans on the market. The iconic Audi Singleframe grille dominates the front end, giving the S8 a bold and commanding presence on the road. The sharp LED headlights and taillights add a touch of modernity to the overall design, while the sculpted body lines enhance the aerodynamics and performance of the car.

Premium Finishes

Step closer to the Audi S8 and you’ll notice the attention to detail in every aspect of the exterior design. The premium finishes, such as the chrome accents and dual exhaust outlets, elevate the overall look of the car and showcase Audi’s commitment to luxury and craftsmanship. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or parked at a fancy event, the Audi S8 exudes sophistication and elegance.

Customization Options

Want to make your Audi S8 truly unique? Audi offers a range of customization options to suit your personal style and preferences. From different paint colors to wheel designs, you can tailor your S8 to reflect your individuality and make a statement on the road. Whether you prefer a more understated look or want to go all out with a bold exterior finish, the Audi S8 gives you the freedom to express yourself.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the exterior design and styling of the Audi S8 are a true testament to Audi’s dedication to innovation and luxury. With its sleek and sporty design, premium finishes, and customization options, the S8 is not just a car – it’s a statement of success and sophistication. So, if you’re looking for a luxury sedan that delivers both style and performance, the Audi S8 is sure to impress.


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Interior Comfort and Luxury Features

When you step inside the Audi S8, it’s clear that this car is designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Audi has masterfully combined cutting-edge technology with meticulous craftsmanship to create an interior that feels like a sanctuary on wheels. Let’s dive into what makes the cabin of the S8 an experience worth writing home about.

Sumptuous Materials Everywhere You Look

Luxury starts with the materials, and the Audi S8 does not disappoint. The seats are upholstered in buttery-soft Valcona leather, which not only looks stunning but feels like a warm embrace every time you slide in. Audi also gives you the option to customize the interior with a range of finishes, from carbon fiber to fine wood inlays, ensuring it perfectly matches your taste.

Even the smallest details are meticulously designed. From the soft-touch plastics to the aluminum accents, everything feels premium and well thought out. It’s not just a car interior—it’s a work of art.

First-Class Comfort

If you think luxury cars only pamper the driver, think again. The Audi S8 is built with every occupant in mind. The front seats are not only heated and ventilated but also come with massage functions that make long drives feel like a trip to the spa. In the rear, available Executive Comfort Seating transforms the back into a veritable lounge with power-adjustable seats, heating, cooling, and even a footrest for ultimate relaxation.

  • Heated and ventilated front and rear seats
  • Massage functionality for the ultimate relaxation
  • Optional four-zone climate control for personalized comfort

Ambient Lighting to Set the Mood

The Audi S8 also knows the importance of creating the right atmosphere. With customizable ambient lighting, you can set the mood for any occasion. Whether you’re on a calm nighttime drive or entertaining passengers, the adjustable colors and brightness levels let you create a space that’s uniquely yours.

Space and Practicality

While luxury is a key focus, practicality hasn’t been overlooked. The S8 offers ample headroom and legroom for all passengers. Even taller individuals will find no shortage of space, whether seated in the front or the rear. The trunk is also generously sized, perfect for stowing luggage for a weekend getaway or even your golf clubs for a day on the course.

Sound and Silence in Perfect Harmony

The Audi S8 cabin is a symphony of quiet luxury. Advanced acoustic insulation keeps road noise at bay, creating a hushed environment that’s perfect for enjoying the Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Sound System, which offers crystal-clear audio quality. Whether you’re streaming your favorite playlist or listening to an audiobook, the sound system turns every drive into an immersive experience.

Final Thoughts

In the Audi S8, luxury isn’t just a feature—it’s a philosophy. Every element inside the cabin has been carefully designed to elevate your driving experience to new heights. Whether you’re commuting through the city or embarking on a long road trip, the S8 ensures you’ll do so in unmatched comfort and style. After spending time in this opulent interior, you might just find yourself looking for excuses to drive.


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Performance and Engine Specifications

Let’s talk about what the Audi S8 is truly famous for: its performance. This isn’t just any luxury sedan—it’s a powerhouse wrapped in elegance. If you’re someone who craves thrilling speed and dynamic handling without sacrificing refinement, the S8 will make your heart race in all the right ways.

The Heart of the Beast: The Engine

At the core of the Audi S8 is a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engineering marvel is paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, seamlessly blending raw power with modern efficiency. The result? A staggering 563 horsepower and a massive 590 lb-ft of torque. Trust us, you’ll feel every bit of it when you hit the gas pedal.

One of the standout features of this engine is its ability to deliver power effortlessly. Whether you’re merging onto the highway or leaving a stoplight, the S8 responds instantly, propelling you forward with exhilarating force. And let’s not forget the sound—it’s got that deep, throaty rumble that lets everyone know you mean business, but it’s refined enough to keep things classy when cruising through the city.

Acceleration and Speed

If speed is your thing, you’re in for a treat. The Audi S8 can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds. Yes, you read that right—this full-size luxury sedan performs like a sports car. It’s exhilarating without being overwhelming, striking just the right balance for both spirited driving and everyday commutes.

The top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, which is more than enough for any stretch of open road. Audi’s engineers have ensured that no matter how fast you’re going, the S8 remains composed and confident, giving you a sense of complete control.

Quattro All-Wheel Drive System

Of course, all that power is only as good as the system delivering it to the road. The Audi S8 comes standard with Audi’s legendary Quattro all-wheel drive. This system continuously monitors road conditions and adjusts power distribution to ensure optimal grip and stability.

Whether you’re tackling wet roads, navigating sharp corners, or simply enjoying a spirited drive, Quattro provides unmatched confidence. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking for performance that doesn’t compromise on safety or handling.

Dynamic Handling and Suspension

One of the features that makes the S8 truly special is its predictive active suspension system. Using a front-facing camera, the system reads the road ahead and adjusts the suspension accordingly. This means the car not only feels planted during aggressive cornering but also soaks up bumps for a smooth ride when you’re just cruising.

The S8 also features all-wheel steering, which makes this large sedan surprisingly agile. At low speeds, the rear wheels turn slightly in the opposite direction of the front wheels, improving maneuverability in tight spaces. At higher speeds, they turn in the same direction, enhancing stability and cornering performance.

Fuel Efficiency

Let’s face it, nobody buys the Audi S8 for its fuel economy. That said, the addition of the mild-hybrid system does help improve efficiency slightly. With an EPA-estimated 15 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, it’s not exactly a Prius, but it’s respectable for a car of this size and performance level.

The Verdict

In the world of high-performance luxury sedans, the Audi S8 stands out as a perfect blend of power, precision, and sophistication. It’s not just about driving fast—it’s about doing it confidently and comfortably. So, if you’re ready to make every journey an unforgettable experience, the Audi S8 is more than capable of delivering.


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Advanced Technology and Connectivity

When it comes to blending cutting-edge technology with sophisticated engineering, the Audi S8 doesn’t miss a beat. This is a car that doesn’t just get you from point A to point B—it makes every moment of the journey smarter, smoother, and more connected. Let’s take a closer look at the advanced tech features that make the Audi S8 a true technological marvel.

Intuitive Infotainment System

The heart of the Audi S8’s tech arsenal is its MMI Touch Response System. With dual high-resolution touchscreens seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, navigating through features feels like second nature. The displays provide haptic feedback, so you get a slight buzz under your fingertips—just like pressing a physical button. It’s satisfying, efficient, and keeps you focused on the road ahead.

Whether you want to customize the climate settings, adjust the ambient lighting, or access your favorite apps, the interface is intuitive and customizable. Plus, the system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so syncing your smartphone is effortless. Imagine playing your curated playlists, responding to texts hands-free, or finding the quickest coffee stop with just a voice command!

Virtual Cockpit Plus

Gone are the days of static instrument clusters. The Audi S8 features the Virtual Cockpit Plus, a 12.3-inch fully digital display that replaces traditional dials. This customizable display shows everything from navigation maps to performance stats in crystal-clear detail. Want a minimalist speedometer or a full-screen GPS map to guide you through unfamiliar city streets? You’ve got it.

What’s more, the interface can adapt to your preferences with ease. You’ll feel like the captain of a spaceship with all the essential info right where you need it.

Bang & Olufsen 3D Sound System

If you’re an audiophile, prepare to be blown away. The Audi S8 offers an available Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 3D sound. We’re talking about 23 speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin, delivering concert-like audio quality. Whether you’re listening to classical symphonies or the latest pop hits, the sound is immersive and spine-tingling. It’s a feature that transforms every drive into an auditory masterpiece.

Advanced Connectivity on the Go

It’s not just about in-car entertainment—the Audi S8 keeps you connected to the world outside. With its built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, passengers can stream, browse, or stay productive no matter where you’re headed. Perfect for road trips or when the kids need to keep up with their favorite shows in the backseat.

Beyond that, the car’s integration with the myAudi app allows you to remotely control key functions from your smartphone. Start the engine, set the cabin temperature, or even check fuel levels, all with a few taps. It’s convenience reimagined.

Heads-Up Display for Focused Driving

To improve safety and enhance convenience, the Audi S8 includes a heads-up display that projects essential information such as speed, navigation directions, and traffic signs directly onto the windshield. This feature ensures you can keep your eyes on the road while staying informed—no need to glance down at the instrument cluster. It’s futuristic and incredibly practical.

Over-the-Air Updates

One of the most impressive features of the Audi S8 is its ability to stay up-to-date with over-the-air updates. This means the software powering your infotainment, navigation, and even some performance features can be improved without a trip to the dealership. It’s like getting a brand-new car experience, years after you’ve driven it off the lot.

Why It Matters

The advanced technology and connectivity in the Audi S8 aren’t just about showing off—it’s about enhancing every aspect of your driving experience. From staying entertained and informed to ensuring safety and convenience, these features make the S8 more than just a luxury sedan. It’s your personal tech hub on wheels, offering a seamless blend of innovation and elegance.

So, if you’re someone who values staying connected and ahead of the tech curve, the Audi S8 is bound to impress. It’s not just a car; it’s a rolling showcase of what’s possible when luxury meets next-level technology.


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VI. Safety Features and Driver Assistance Systems

When it comes to safety, the Audi S8 doesn’t just set the bar—it raises it. This luxury performance sedan is armed to the teeth with cutting-edge safety features and driver assistance systems that give both peace of mind and an extra layer of confidence on the road. Let’s dive into what makes the S8 a true guardian angel on wheels.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

The Audi S8 is equipped with some of the most advanced driver assistance systems available today. Whether you’re cruising down the highway, navigating city traffic, or parking in a tight spot, this car has your back.

  • Adaptive Cruise Assist: This feature takes traditional cruise control to the next level. Not only does it maintain your set speed, but it also monitors the vehicle ahead and adjusts accordingly to keep a safe following distance. Long road trips have never been so stress-free.
  • Traffic Jam Assist: Say goodbye to the headaches of stop-and-go traffic. With this system, the S8 helps you inch forward with precision and even offers hands-on guidance in slow-moving traffic.
  • Lane Keeping Assist: Drift too close to the lane markings? No problem. The S8 gently steers you back into your lane, ensuring you stay on track without feeling intrusive.

360-Degree Awareness

With so many potential hazards on the road, having a clear view of your surroundings is critical. The Audi S8 employs an arsenal of sensors and cameras to keep you fully aware of what’s happening around you.

  • Top-View Camera System: Parking in tight spaces is no longer a nerve-wracking experience. The bird’s-eye view of your car ensures you can maneuver with pinpoint accuracy.
  • Night Vision Assistant: Driving in the dark becomes safer with this feature. Using infrared technology, it detects pedestrians and large animals ahead, highlighting them on your virtual cockpit display.
  • Cross Traffic Assist: Reversing out of parking spots? The S8 watches for oncoming traffic from either side, alerting you to any potential collisions.

Innovative Safety Systems for Every Scenario

Audi has also incorporated several proactive and passive safety measures to ensure maximum protection in the event of an emergency. Here’s what you can count on:

  1. Predictive Active Suspension: The S8’s suspension system isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about safety. In the event of an imminent side collision, the suspension raises the body to help absorb the impact on stronger areas of the car.
  2. Pre Sense Technology: Audi’s Pre Sense Suite actively prepares your car for potential collisions. If it detects an imminent crash, it tightens the seatbelts, closes the windows, and even primes the brakes for maximum stopping power.
  3. Airbag System: The S8 boasts a comprehensive airbag setup, including front, side, and rear airbags, ensuring superior protection in all directions.

The Best Part? It’s Seamless.

What makes the Audi S8’s safety systems truly impressive is how intuitive they feel. Instead of bombarding you with alerts, these features work quietly in the background, stepping in only when necessary. This means you can focus on enjoying the drive while knowing the car is actively working to keep you safe.

From cutting-edge prevention to life-saving emergency measures, the Audi S8 lives up to its reputation as a flagship luxury sedan. Safety isn’t optional here—it’s an integral part of your driving experience. And honestly, who wouldn’t want that?


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Pricing and Competitor Comparison

When it comes to the Audi S8, there’s no question that you’re stepping into a world of premium luxury and high performance. But, as they say, quality comes at a price. So, let’s break down the numbers, explore what you’re getting for your investment, and see how the S8 stacks up against its rivals in the luxury performance sedan market.

How Much Does the Audi S8 Cost?

The base price for the Audi S8 typically starts around $120,000, but as with most luxury vehicles, options and packages can easily nudge that figure upward. Audi offers a variety of upgrades, such as advanced driver assistance systems, premium interior materials, and exclusive exterior styling options. If you want the fully loaded experience, expect the price to climb closer to the $140,000 range.

That may seem steep at first glance, but keep in mind: the S8 isn’t just a car—it’s an experience. Between its twin-turbocharged V8 engine, meticulous craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology, you’re paying for performance, comfort, and prestige all rolled into one sleek package.

What Competitors Are in the Mix?

In the ultra-luxury performance sedan segment, the Audi S8 faces stiff competition from some seriously heavy hitters. Here are a few key players and how they measure up:

  • Mercedes-Benz S-Class (AMG S63): Often considered the benchmark of luxury sedans, the AMG S63 offers breathtaking performance combined with an opulent interior. However, it tends to sit at a higher price point than the S8, often pushing past $150,000.
  • BMW 7 Series (M760i xDrive): The M760i brings V12 power to the table, making it a strong contender in terms of performance. That said, its styling is polarizing, and its starting price is typically higher than the S8.
  • Porsche Panamera Turbo S: A more performance-oriented option, the Panamera Turbo S delivers sharp handling and blistering speed. However, its interior doesn’t quite offer the same level of spaciousness and luxury as the S8, especially in the rear seats.
  • Lexus LS 500 F Sport: While the Lexus LS 500 F Sport is more affordable, starting around $90,000, it lacks the raw power and dynamic performance of the S8. It’s a solid choice for those prioritizing comfort over driving thrills.

Is the Audi S8 Worth It?

So, is the Audi S8 worth the investment? If you’re looking for a luxury sedan that balances blistering performance with understated elegance, the answer is a definitive yes. The S8 offers a unique blend of comfort, technology, and driving dynamics that’s hard to beat in this price range.

Unlike some of its competitors, the S8 has a refined, under-the-radar aesthetic—perfect for those who value sophistication over flashiness. It also offers a more approachable price point compared to the higher-end models from Mercedes-Benz and BMW, making it an excellent value in its class.

Final Thoughts

If you’re shopping in the six-figure luxury sedan category, the Audi S8 deserves to be on your shortlist. While it might not be the flashiest option in the lineup, its combination of performance, luxury, and technology makes it a strong contender—and one that’s sure to put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel.


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