By Otsile Kadiege

Audi South Africa has revealed the pricing and specifications of its high-performance luxo-barge. The Ingolstadt based automaker promises a sporty yet elegant design, impressive performance and vehicle dynamics, and state-of-the-art equipment.

Power

The Audi S8 is powered by an 8-cylinder bi-turbo 4.0-litre TFSI engine developing 420 kW / 800 Nm and is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Power is sent to all four wheels via the automaker’s Quattro all wheel-drive system allowing the S8 to sprint from 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

Its V8 engine is paired with a mild hybrid system (MHEV) which works continuously to 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. For additional efficiency, the S8 has a cylinder on demand system, which deactivates individual cylinders in low-load operating situations.

As standard, the S8 is equipped with predictive active suspension which works in combination with the air suspension, can lift or push down each wheel separately via electromechanical actuators. It is also equipped with dynamic-all-wheel steering which allows the independent adjustment of the steering angles at the front and rear axles.

Exterior

The 5.18 meters long luxury saloon has a sporty elegant look to it thanks to restyled front bumper, quad exhausts and large 21-inch wheels. Customers can opt for high-gloss black accents with the black styling package instead of the standard chrome accents. As standard, the S8 is fitted with HD matrix LED headlights with dynamic turn signals and OLED rear lights (optional extra) for precise and effective line of sight when driving.

Interior

Inside, the luxo-barge is fitted with standard individually contoured comfort sports seats and progressive, and state-of-the-art equipment like 3 large displays for the configurable digital instrument cluster, MMI navigation plus with Android Auto and wireless Apple Carplay and one for the climate control. The S8 is fitted with Bang & Olufsen premium sound system with 3D sound as standard. For a richer sound quality, there is the optional Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 3D sound.

Safety

Audi provides many driver assistance systems in the new S8 which ensure a comfortable driving experience. 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.

Pricing

The Audi S8 is currently available for sale in South Africa. It is priced from R2,484,000 and comes standard with a 5 year Audi Freeway Plan.