EDMUNDS.COM 2005 AUDI A8
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
It may not have the name recognition of its German peers, but the A8 matches or beats them in just about every meaningful category.
Pros
Superb driving dynamics, plenty of passenger space, exquisite interior, standard all-wheel drive.
Cons
Inconvenient glovebox location for the CD changer.
Overview
Introduction:
At first glance, the A8 doesn''t look much different than the previous-generation model. The same crisp, uncluttered lines are there, but the headlights and roofline are more aggressively swept back. Filling the wheel wells is a choice of wheel designs and sizes ranging from sedate to sporty. All in all, this is an understated, handsome sedan that doesn''t shout, "I''ve got money," yet still exudes class. Under the A8''s aluminum skin, Audi employs a revised version of its aluminum alloy space frame that is stronger and lighter than a comparable steel structure. This architecture has 20-percent fewer parts than the previous generation, yet boasts considerably greater (60 percent) torsional rigidity. A spacious and beautifully finished interior greets the driver and passengers. Audi has a strong reputation for having what many consider to be the best cabins in the business -- be they entry-level or ultralevel luxury cars -- and the A8 maintains that lofty standard. Regardless of cost, there''s nary a car that could top the top-shelf materials and design flair of the A8''s inner sanctum. Audi''s Multi-Media Interface (MMI) handles everything from the navigation and audio systems to the adjustment of the driver-selectable air suspension. MMI features a seven-inch monitor that automatically glides (and hides) into the dash when not in use. Mounted in the console and operated via a simple twist-and-press knob and four large buttons that surround the knob, Audi''s MMI may draw comparisons to BMW''s iDrive system. But unlike iDrive, MMI is simple and intuitive to operate. Under the hood is a refined 4.2-liter, 40-valve V8 that makes a scintillating 335 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. That''s more ponies than the Mercedes-Benz S500 and the BMW 745i. A six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission sends the power to all four wheels through Audi''s quattro all-wheel-drive system. Audi''s engineers are especially proud of the A8''s air suspension, claiming it provides the handling of a sports car with the ride of a luxury sedan, and based on our experience, they''re not too far off. The adaptive air suspension adjusts itself to road and driving conditions, automatically firming up when the car is pressed through the curves and softening when cruising down the interstate. The driver can select one of four settings for the adaptive system: dynamic (lowest ride height and firm damping), automatic, comfort and lift (raises the car up for travel on rough roads). With its polished demeanor, spacious and luxurious cabin and capable road manners, the A8 leaves little to be desired. And at a price tag thousands less than its chief rivals, we would strongly suggest visiting the dealer of the four rings before putting down your big money.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
Two versions of the A8 are offered, a standard-wheelbase sedan and the long-wheelbase L sedan for those who need maximum rear legroom. The question with this car isn''t what''s standard, it''s what isn''t. Most anyone with a big thirst for luxury and convenience features should be well sated by the A8. A DVD-based navigation system and bi-xenon headlights are on the long standard features roster, as is a 12-speaker Bose audio system with CD changer (located in the glovebox) that was designed exclusively for the A8. Other coddling features include a pair of vanity mirrors for the rear-seat passengers, heated seats (front and rear) and steering wheel, power lumbar support for all four outboard seats and window shades for the rear side and back windows. Options include wood steering wheel trim for what is already an opulent interior, a keyless ignition and power door closers.
Powertrains and Performance:
The A8''s 4.2-liter, 40-valve V8 generates 335 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. The V8 is matched to a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and drives all four wheels through Audi''s quattro system. Audi claims that the A8 L will sprint to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds and run down the quarter-mile in 14.2 ticks, putting it about equal in acceleration to its executive express rivals, Mercedes-Benz''s S500 and BMW''s 745Li.
Safety:
Peace-of-mind features include stability control, 10 airbags (including four side, front knee and full-length head curtain) and a first aid kit in the rear center armrest. The A8 hasn''t been crash tested.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
Whether you sit in the pilot''s seat or stretch out (and with 42 inches of rear legroom in the L, we mean stretch out) in the back, everything you see and touch in the A8 bespeaks the highest quality. Generous fillets of dark or light wood, suede trim and aluminum accents are arranged attractively. With 16-way power adjustment (including upper seat back angle for the shoulders) and a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, finding a comfortable driving position is easy for short and tall folk alike.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
Throttle response is gratifying, to say the least. Whether taking off from a stoplight or jetting up to cruising speed on the freeway, a solid rush of power is always on tap. And the six-shooter gearbox might as well be a CVT, so seamless are its gear changes. True to its autobahn-bred heritage, the A8 is utterly relaxed at felonious velocities, so a watchful eye on the speedo is well advised. Powerfully reassuring brakes that are easily modulated have no problem reining in the A8. The air suspension is well sorted; left in automatic, the system works just fine providing a soft but not mushy ride and solid composure through the twisty bits. And when used in the dynamic setting, body lean is kept to an absolute minimum, making the A8 feel more like Audi''s sporty TT coupe than the company''s flagship sedan.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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