High-performance Audi S8 to debut at Los Angeles Auto Show, 2020 A8 model line expanded

By Author: admin, Date: Nov 15, 2019
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  • All-new 2020 S8 joins model line blending S model performance with the comfort of a long-wheelbase
  • 2020 A8 luxury sedan receives 4.0-liter V8 engine offering with elevated torque and more usable power
  • Audi continues commitment to electrification by offering the first A8 plug-in hybrid in the U.S.

HERNDON, Va., November 15, 2019 – Joining the flagship model line, in a first for the U.S. market, the high-performance twin-turbocharged S8 will exclusively be offered as a long wheelbase model. In a first for the brand, the A8 TFSI e combines the comfort of the A8 with electric driving. In 2020, customers will be able to choose between V6 and V8 engine variants on the A8. Luxury and performance are emphasized across the new A8 line that expands on innovative technologies and sophisticated design.

S8: HIGH PERFORMANCE MEETS MODERN LUXURY

Equipped with a 4.0-liter, twin-turbocharged engine producing 563 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, the new S8 provides a perfect balance between modern luxury and maximum performance, including a top track speed of 155 mph, allowing the S8 to sprint from 0-60 in an impressive 3.8 secondsz. The 5 model is standard-equipped with dynamic all-wheel steering, a quattro® sport differential and predictive active suspension that work in tandem to provide dynamic handling for spirited driving.

The performance-oriented S8 receives bold interior and exterior design elements to match its character. Details on the front bumper, side sills and the exterior mirror housings as well as the S-model quad exhaust tailpipes emphasize the car’s sporty and progressive character. The 58 can be equipped with 21-inch 5 double-spoke wheels that set it apart from the competition. Illuminating HD Matrix-design headlights are standard on the $8, with the option to upgrade to the available Audi Laser Light and OLED animated taillights.

The S8’s cabin is fitted with a host of luxury features including dual-pane acoustic glass for a pristine and quiet cockpit, Valcona leather front sport seats with diamond stitch, and a Premium Air Quality system with cabin air ionization and refreshing scents. New in the Audi 38 — the upper dash inlay is made of Carbon Vector with a special 30 depth effect, underlined by a brushed matt aluminum lower inlay. The 2020 Audi S8 will make its US debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show from Friday, November 20.

A8 TFSI E: HYBRID ELECTRIC EFFICIENCY AND SUPERIOR COMFORT

Blending premium design, comfort and efficiency, the A8 TFSI e is powered by a 3.0-liter, turbocharged V6 engine paired with an electric motor integrated into the torque converter of the eight-speed automatic transmission, helping ensure a balance of power and efficiency. With a manufacturer-estimated combined maximum output of 443 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, the A8 TFSI e can accelerate from 0-60 in approximately 4.9 seconds, 0.7 seconds faster than the standard A8 V6 thanks to the hybrid components.

The exterior of the A8 TFSI e is differentiated through its unique light signature in the front bumper and standard 19-inch wheels. The plug-in hybrid also receives an MMI display3 with electric-specific driving screens, including charging information, and additional consumption statistics to help drivers maximize the efficiencies of the hybrid system. The Audi virtual cockpit is also updated to display battery data and range statistics. Similar to the fully electric Audi e-tron, the A8 TFSI e has a standard boost function that maximizes its power outputs for additional performance over a limited time.

Supplementing the 3.0 TFSI® engine and powering its electric motor is a lithium-ion battery pack, made up of 104 pouch cells combined in eight modules and can store 14.1 kWh of energy at a voltage of 385 V. The battery, which sits beneath the luggage compartment, works in tandem with the combustion engine as a hybrid. With paddles behind the steering wheel, the driver can select from several different driving modes, including hybrid mode, purely electric mode and a hold mode to help reserve pure-electric driving for later scenarios. When the driver selects EV driving mode, an audible eSound is emitted to help ensure pedestrians are aware of the vehicle’s presence.

EPA certified MPGe and pricing are subject to a later announcement. The A8 TFSI e may be eligible for a federal tax credit. Additional state incentives may also be available.

A8: PROGRESSIVE PREMIUM

The meticulously designed A8 55 TFSI® isjoined by a new high output engine option and additional standard features. The standard turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, isjoined by a 4.0-liter eight-cylinder engine that produces up to 453 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque. The twin-turbocharged engine provides elevated torque and helps improve day-to-day drivability of the A8 with more usable power. The 4.0T engine sends the flagship model from 0-60 mph injust 4.5 seconds.

The interior continues to provide an escape from hectic daily lives for drivers and passengers in the cabin through intelligent, minimalistic, and functional design. A newly available Audi design selection adds Merino Gray colored, Valcona leather along with a blend of key elements from Luxury, Cold Weather and Executive packages to further elevate the refined interior of the A8.

Lane departure warning5 is now standard to help ensure peace of mind on the road. To emphasize sporty design on both derivatives, an available Sport Style Exterior package adds 20-inch wheels, front and rear bumpers, and side sills on the A8. In addition to the performance oriented exterior styling of the Sport Style Exterior package, the Sport plus package, available exclusively on the 4.0-liter derivative, adds the Black Optic package as well as dynamic all-wheel steering and predictive active suspension to enhance the superior ride comfort of the A8, or provide the firm handling of a sports car. The system processes road surface data in front of the vehicle and actively adjusts the suspension to ensure an optimum ride feel depending on the driving profile selected.

MSRP PRICING DETAIL

2020 Model Engine Horsepower Torque MSRP
A8 55 TFSI 3.0T 335 hp 369 lb-ft $85,200
A8 60 TFSI 4.0T 453 hp 487 lb-ft $96,800
S8 4.0T 563 hp 590 lb-ft $126,500
A8 60 TSFI e 3.0T 443 hp 516 lb-ft TBA