Audi has launched its updated A8 saloon in Ireland, which is available to order now. Thanks to reductions in emissions for the best-selling 3.0-litre TDI diesel model its price has been reduced, though equipment levels are higher than before.
Exterior
Although the facelift is a subtle one, there are a considerable number of exterior changes. Up front there's a new bonnet, grille and bumper, while it's the high-tech MatrixBeam LED lights that really stand out. They're optional, though full LED headlights are standard across the range. Round the back there are more new LED lamps, prominent chrome strips, a new bumper and rhomboid exhaust outlets on all versions of the A8 other than the S8 variant. New wheels and colours round off the updates.
Interior
Even the entry-level Audi A8 SE is lavishly equipped inside. Soft leather upholstery is included, covering temperature controlled individual front seats with electric adjustment. The long wheelbase models additionally gain heating for the outer two rear seats. Four-zone climate control and electrically operated sunblinds also feature as standard on the bigger cars. All models get LED ambient lighting and electric adjustment for the steering wheel position, plus even more material and inlay options to choose from.
On the technology side, MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touchpad is standard, as is Bluetooth and a high-resolution seven-inch infotainment screen that stows out of sight at the touch of a button.
Mechanicals
Petrol power comes from a 310hp 3.0 TFSI engine, starting at €92,800 on-the-road. The top-of-the range A8 is powered by an extravagant 6.3-litre W12 unit producing 500hp (€155,160), while the sporting flagship is the 520hp Audi S8, costing €130,320. The majority of Irish buyers will stick with diesel and there are two options: 3.0 TDI 260 or 4.2 TDI 385. The former starts at €94,080 and sits in Band C for road tax with emissions of 155g/km.
Most models are offered in regular and long wheelbases, with the exception of the long wheelbase only W12 variant and the short wheelbase only Audi S8. All versions feature an eight-speed 'Tiptronic' automatic gearbox and quattro four-wheel drive.
Anything else?
At the A8's media launch in Carton House, Christian Gussen, Managing Director, Audi Ireland commented: "The A8 is our flagship model and epitomises our 'Vorsprung Durch Technik' claim. We are proud to have been number one with the A8 in the luxury segment each year since 2010 and with even more efficient TDI and TFSI engines offering more power the A8 is stronger than it has ever been."