2005 Audi A8
03/31/2005
Shahed Hussain
As German luxury performance sedans go, the Audi A8 is relatively unknown. Although the BMW 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class are more popular, the Audi's handsome chiseled looks and cool opulent interior make it the style leader among these top sedans. The A8 is also available in the long wheelbase A8L model, equipped with the same 4.2L V-8 in the A8, or an optional 6.0L W-12 exclusive to the A8L.
Over the past decade, Audi has emerged as the automaker that embodies Germanic style and panache. The A8 carries on this tradition with its softened angular exterior design, which echoes the smaller A4. A subtly tapered trunk gives the illusion of a smaller, more compact automobile. No spoilers mar the deck lid. The door key lock is hidden under the driver's door handle. For easier entry at night, all passenger door handles are softly lit with blue LEDs under the door handles, although for some reason, the driver's door does not have this handy feature. Stainless steel dual exhaust tips exit discreetly from the rear bumper valance. Multi-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels are outfitted with low-profile all-season tires. Optional 19-inch alloys with all-season or performance tires are part of the Sport Package.
As expected, the interior of the A8 is a superb combination of high quality materials and understated style. Blue LEDs provide diffuse lighting on the interior door panels, door handles, and the front console. The engine can be started and stopped via two buttons mounted on the transmission console, as long as the key fob is with the driver. A power opening & closing trunk lid (included in the Convenience Package) is also controlled by the key fob. The trunk extends deep into the passenger compartment, but is relatively narrow due to separate storage boxes integrated into the side. A power rear backlight sunshade, and manual rear side window sunshades (part of the Convenience Package) ensure that back seat passenger are protected from undesired sun exposure.
Like many other luxury cars, the A8 has steering wheel mounted controls for CD track/radio station selection, and volume. A standard Bose (R) audio system provides excellent sound quality, although the 6-disc CD changer (which can recognize and display many CDs and song titles on the instrument panel display) is inconveniently hidden in the glove box. Although this is a better location than the trunk, it is still necessary for a solo driver to stop the car to load or unload compact discs from the changer. The sub optimal location of the CD changer was probably driven by the large MMI (Multi-Media Interface) display that occupies the prime location on the center console. Even though MMI is probably one of the more intuitive systems to control all peripheral functions of the A8, it still requires 10-15 minutes of acclimatization for new users to be comfortable with the interface.
Aside from the expected climate/ventilation and audio controls, the MMI also controls the GPS navigation system, suspension damping, interior lighting modes, and other minor aspects of the A8, to allow full customization to the owner's preferences. Audi's navigation system has a reasonably intuitive interface that is easy to master. However, like any other navigation system, frequent use certainly improves one's proficiency.
One really slick available option is Adaptive Cruise Control. Set cruise speed below 100 mph, and a car pictograph in the instrument panel lights up, indicating that the cruise control is active. When the A8 approaches another vehicle in its lane, it reduces speed to maintain a preset distance (adjustable via the MMI), and a second car pictograph appears to indicate that the vehicle ahead requires a speed reduction. Switch to an open lane and the A8 speeds up to the preset speed. Although this is a pricey option, it makes highway driving a breeze. All the driver has to do is steer and switch lanes, and the Adaptive Cruise Control dynamically adjusts the A8's speed and proximity to other cars.
The standard A8 is clearly the sporty model of the lineup. A shorter wheelbase enables the A8 to be more nimble and responsive than its A8L relative, without compromising too much rear legroom. Understeer at moderate cornering speeds in minimal, although closer to the limit, the A8 tends to push noticeably. Although Quattro (R) AWD provides excellent traction in poor weather, it tends to promote more understeer compared to the A8's RWD competition. For the most sporty handling, one must choose the "Dynamic" option via the MMI controlled suspension settings menu. This stiffens the dampers and turns the A8 into a surprisingly adept sport sedan. Of course, one has to make allowances for its greater than two ton mass. The optional 18-inch wheels and tires offer a near ideal balance of handling and comfort, although 19-inch wheels and tires are offered, that combination may detract too much from the A8's smoothly controlled ride.
Audi equips the A8 with its powerful 4.2L V-8 as standard. This motor is smooth and refined from idle to redline, although it emits a pleasantly muted rumble at full throttle. Acceleration below 2000 RPM is a little weak, but midrange and upper-RPM response is superb. A close-ratio 6-speed automatic keeps the engine at its peak power. For maximum responsiveness, use the manual Tiptronic (R) mode, as the transmission is sometimes hesitant to downshift quickly at full throttle.
In the end, the A8 continues to be the underdog of the German luxury sedan trio. This is unfortunate, since the A8 is a more than credible competitor. Luxury car buyers who value German style and exclusivity, but don't wish to flaunt their wealth, should seriously consider the Audi A8.
