2007 Audi S8

Fleet-Footed Flagship

An all-new S8 pushes Audi's largest sedan to the outer limits of performance with a Lamborghini-derived V10 engine.

A higher-performance version of Audi’s largest and most luxurious sedan (the A8) reenters the lineup for 2007 and is called the S8. It brings sporty flair to an opulent and highly refined model.

The Audi S8’s 5.2-liter V10 engine uses race-car-like direct-injection technology and is essentially a 450-hp version of the V10 found in the Lamborghini Gallardo (Audi and Lamborghini are both owned by Volkswagen). It enables the full-size luxury sedan to sprint to 60 mph in just five seconds, which is two-tenths of a second quicker than the standard Porsche 911 Carrera can muster. Its top speed is electronically governed at 155 mph, which means that the car can probably go faster.

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As in the A8, a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission can be taken through the gears manually via steering-wheel-mounted paddles. Quicker gear ratios and gear changes maximize acceleration and give the car a more-aggressive feel, which is accentuated even further when a “Sport” mode is engaged.

A lightweight aluminum chassis combines with Servotronic speed-dependent power steering and a sport-tuned adaptive air suspension to afford capable handling characteristics without a harsh ride. Four modes govern the air suspension’s ride height and damping rates: automatic, dynamic, comfort and lift.

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Massive 20-inch cast-aluminum wheels and tires shroud oversize brake discs and calipers. Audi’s acclaimed quattro all-wheel-drive system is standard. It uses a center differential to distribute power front to rear and side to side for optimal traction and performance. While the less-aggressive A8 splits power evenly front to rear under normal conditions, the S8 has a rearward bias for sportier handling, with 60 percent of the engine’s output sent to the rear wheels under normal driving.

Visually, the Audi S8 is distinguished by a revised front end that features a platinum-grey front grille and extra air inlets. A spoiler was also added to the rear deck along with four oval exhaust tips. Aluminum trims the mirrors and door handles.

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Interior enhancements include exclusive power-adjustable sport seats upholstered in a special leather (which Audi calls Valcona). A matching multifunction sport steering wheel, polished metal doorsill trim, white instrument gauges and other aluminum-looking trim spruce up the Audi S8’s cabin.

Safety equipment abounds and includes traction and stability control along with enhanced braking systems typically found on high-end sedans. The number of airbags is noteworthy and includes front, front side, rear side, side-curtain and knee airbags.

Audi S8 Vehicle Summary

If Audi’s rotary-knob-controlled MMI interface system that governs all interior controls is confusing, at least there’s a Bluetooth hands-free telephone function with voice recognition that can operate stereo and navigation systems. An optional Bang & Olufsen audio system is sure to please audiophiles.

The Audi S8 is a new model, so reliability data isn’t available yet. But the A8 sedan on which it’s based has proven unreliable according to Consumer Reports data.

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Is the Audi S8 for You?

Buy this Vehicle if	You like the Audi A8 but prefer something with a sportier flair; you need seating for five adults and a spacious trunk; you prefer refined, understated styling and the all-weather security of AWD.
Keep Looking if	The A8’s poor reliability worries you; fuel economy is a concern; a smaller and even sportier sedan would better suit your tastes.
Who Fits?	Five adults will be quite comfortable inside. The standard tilt/telescoping steering wheel is power operated and can help motorists of all sizes find an optimal driving position, though adjustable pedals are not offered.
Options Worth Splurging on	The relatively short options list includes an audiophile-quality Bang & Olufsen sound system that (at around $8,000) costs more than all but the priciest home stereo equipment.
Closest Competitors	2006 BMW 760i 2006 Jaguar XJR Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG

Did You Know ...

• Established by August Horch in Zwickau, Germany, in 1910 as a builder of luxury motorcars, Audi derives its name from a Latin translation of its founder’s moniker, which in German means “to listen.”

• The A8 upon which the Audi S8 is based dates back to the 1997 model year when the flagship sedan became the first production car with an all-aluminum space frame. It reduces weight but is highly rigid.