By Khulekani Dumisa

Recently we spent some time with Audi’s high-performance luxo-barge S8 which is powered by a bi-turbo 4.0-litre TFSI V8 engine developing 420kW/800Nm. The V8 engine is paired with a mild hybrid system (MHEV) to reduce fuel consumption and it’s also mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Audi claims the S8 sprints from 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. To aid ride quality and practicality, a predictive active suspension is on offer.

Exterior and interior

The refreshed Audi S8 spots a restyled front bumper, quad exhausts and large 21-inch wheels. As standard, the S8 is fitted with HD matrix LED headlights with dynamic turn signals and OLED rear lights (optional extra).

Inside, The S8 is fitted with standard individually contoured comfort sports seats and equipment like 3 large displays for the configurable digital instrument cluster, MMI navigation plus with Android Auto and wireless Apple Carplay and climate control. The S8 is fitted with Bang & Olufsen premium sound system with 3D Sound as standard.

Some thoughts

We enjoyed spending time with the Audi S8 which impresses with its imposing sheer power (420kW/800Nm) and speed. It’s not only about the power however, the Audi limousine has smart looks all round and one of the biggest grilles in the game. It does wear it well though.

The interior is all plush and luxurious. Although well executed, we feel the dash could be more special. It tends to feel like something you have seen before from Audi. Being well built, you are not likely to get tired of this interior however.

Final word

Two features stand out: the all-wheel steering and the predictive active suspension. The former makes manoeuvring the large vehicle a dream and the latter irons out nearly all imperfections on the road. We found ourselves feeling like we are gliding over speed bumps as if they were not there. Now, that’s proper luxury!

Pricing

The uber-luxurious Audi S8 is priced from R2,484,000.