Based on the latest evolution of the MLB platform, the fourth generation of the Audi A8 (D5 generation) finally reveals its face, after endless teasers about the many technological innovations of the new model.
In this new generation, the standard inclusion of a 48-volt electrical system (as in the Audi SQ7) stands out, allowing the adoption of more advanced technological solutions, such as, for example, an electromechanical active suspension (see highlight). Audi also announces that the A8 will be the first car to hit the market with Tier 3 autonomous driving technologies.
evolution not revolution
In terms of design, this is the first model designed entirely under the responsibility of Marc Lichte. But don't expect a revolution. Despite a whole series of new elements, the watchword remains evolution. The new A8 is the first practical application of everything we saw in Prologue, the 2014 concept, which, according to Lichte, was a fusion of what we could expect from the new generations of the A8, A7 and A6.
From this concept, the new A8 inherits the new hexagonal grille, which extends over almost the entire front. While at the rear we also find new features, with the optics now being joined by a light bar and a chrome one. As you would expect, the front and rear optics are LED, with the front, called HD Matrix LED, containing lasers.
The new Audi A8 is 37 mm (5172 mm) longer, 13 mm taller (1473 mm) and 4 mm (1945 mm) narrower than its predecessor. The wheelbase grows marginally by 6 mm up to 2998 mm. As is now the case, there will also be a long body, A8L, which adds 130mm to the length and wheelbase.
The vast bodywork and structure adopts different materials. Aluminum is still the most used material, accounting for 58% of the total, but we can also find steel, magnesium and even carbon fiber in the rear section.
All A8s are hybrids
Initially we will be able to choose between two engines in the new Audi A8. Both with V6 architecture and 3.0 liters of capacity. TFSI, gasoline, develops 340 horsepower, while TDI, Diesel, develops 286 horsepower. Later, in 2018, the V8s will arrive, with 4.0 liters, also gasoline and Diesel, with 460 hp and 435 hp, respectively.The 6.0 liter W12 will also be present and, of course, we can't forget about the S8, which will have to resort to a more vitamin-filled version of the 4.0 V8 TFSI. Common to all engines is the use of an eight-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.
The 48 volt system, present in all engines, turns all A8 into hybrids, or better mild-hybrids (semi-hybrids). This means that the new model may have some hybrid functions, such as turning off the engine while driving, stop-start for longer use and recovery of kinetic energy during braking. According to the brand, it can mean fuel savings of up to 0.7 l/100 km in real driving conditions.
What the 48-volt system does not allow is any kind of electrical autonomy. This will be in charge of the A8 e-tron quattro – a “full-hybrid” hybrid – which will marry the 3.0 liter V6 TFSI with an electric motor, allowing up to 50 km of electric autonomy
41 driving assistance systems
Let's say it again: forty-one driving assistance systems! But there we go… first let's go to the interior.
The interior follows the minimalist trends we've already seen in Prologue. And what you notice is an almost absence of buttons and analog manometers. The A8 comes with the Audi Virtual Cockpit and is accompanied by not one but two screens in the center console. The bottom, 8.6 inches, is curved. It is on these screens that we will find the Audi MMI (Audi Multi Media Interface), which can be configured with up to six profiles, allowing access to up to 400 different functions.
But it will not only be through the touch screens that we will be able to access the various functions of the MMI, as the new Audi A8 also allows voice commands and the main functions can be accessed through the controls on the steering wheel.
Among the numerous features we have an intelligent navigation system, with a self-learning function, camera configuration or a 3D sound system.
There are also many driving assistance systems, more than 40 (no mistake… there are even more than 40 driving assistance systems!), highlighting those that allow autonomous driving, such as the Traffic Jam Pilot that takes care of the «operations» in situations of traffic jams or traveling at low speed (up to 50 km/h on a motorway). The system uses cameras, radars, ultrasonic sensors and, a first in the automotive world, a laser scanner.
The system allows the car to turn on or off by itself, accelerate and brake, and change direction. However, due to the lack of concrete regulations in most markets, not all the system's functionalities may be available in this first phase.
When parking the new Audi A8, in certain situations the driver can also get out of the vehicle and control the car via the mobile phone, with the Remote Parking Pilot and Remote Garage Pilot functions.
When arrives?
The new Audi A8 will hit the various markets in early autumn, and prices in Germany are expected to start at €90,600, with the A8 L starting at €94,100. Before that, it is expected to be publicly presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show in early September.
(in update)