Categories
Audi

2014 Audi A8/S8 facelift revealed

Audi S8

Audi has just updated its luxury A8 range, including the S8 sports saloon (pictured above). As we’ve come to expect these days the changes are subtle, but result in a cleaner and more pleasing solution.

The changes are most notable at the front where a new grille and front fascia design lead to revised bonnet styling. Also of note are the new optional Matrix LED headlights, which Audi is very excited about.

Able to work in conjunction with the sat nav system to light up corners before you start turning the Matrix LED lights will be sure to set new trends across the industry that will eventually trickle down to other models.

The refreshed A8 range will arrive in Australia in the second quarter of 2014 and will include the S8 for the first time on this platform. Powered by a 4.0 V8 TFSI producing 380kW/650Nm, the S8 can reach 100km/h in 4.2 seconds. It will be joined in Australia by a 3.0 TDI and 4.2 TDI.

Further details can be viewed after the break.

Categories
Bugatti

Bugatti planning A8 derived saloon

Bugatti Galibier Concept

Reports from Germany suggest Bugatti will end its sportscar production in favour of a return to luxury saloons. It is understood the next Bugatti creation will be based on the Audi A8 and should come to life in 2014.

At last year’s Geneva Motor Show Bugatti presented the Galibier Concept (pictured above). The Galibier is the most recent four-door saloon from the famous marque and no doubt gives us an idea as to what Bugatti has in mind.

While the all-conquering Veyron has a projected production run of just 300, it is expected the company’s next foray will result in much higher numbers.

[Source: Spiegel Online | translated]

Categories
Audi Motor Shows

AIMS 2010: Audi A8 L

Audi A8 L

Hidden away on a mezzanine level at the Audi motor show stand is an imposing W12 powered A8 L. It’s Audi’s answer to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. A long luxo cruiser designed with opulence and luxury in mind, and not much else.

The huge lattice grille introduces a commanding presence, one which is complemented by the 20″ alloy wheels and the sheer length of the car. At 130mm longer than a regular A8 the L version has vast amounts of space for all passengers.

It’s the inside of this car, really, that completes the picture. Especially when you see the two individual rear seats facing two large entertainment screens. With electronic reclining and features such as a massage function you just know spending time in those seats would be time well spent.

The good news is the A8 L will be coming to Australia in the 2nd quarter of next year. The bad news is the 368kW 6.3 litre W12 will not be available. Australian captains of industry will have to choose from an engine lineup comprising 3.0 and 4.2 TDI diesels or a 4.2 FSI petrol engine. All are fitted with an 8-speed tiptronic transmission.

Check the pics out after the break, as far as luxo barges go, the A8 L looks like a great option.