The fourth generation Audi A8 has been revealed ahead of going on sale in the UK this October.
Having made a brief cameo in the latest Spiderman movie, it’s now had a proper launch at a glitzy event in Barcelona.
Hailed as the dawning of a new era for the German car maker, the new flagship saloon has been comprehensively re-engineered. Audi intends it to mount a successful challenge against upmarket rivals such as the BMW 7 Series, Lexus LS and Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
Having been on sale since 2010, the A8 is starting to look a bit elderly compared to the latest BMW 7 Series and Mercedes S-Class.
This fourth-generation A8 is marginally longer and taller than the car it replaces, with more space between its front and rear axles. That equates to more space inside for both people and luggage – an area where the old car fell short of its rivals.
With 505 litres of boot space on offer, though, the new A8 still lags behind both the S-Class and the 7 Series. That said, there should be enough room for holiday suitcases or a couple of sets of golf clubs.
As with the outgoing car, the new model can be specified with an extended wheelbase of 13cm, badged as the A8L.
Passengers get more head and leg room, as well as the option of a special reclining seat.
From launch buyers will have the option of a 282bhp 3.0-litre V6 diesel and a 335bhp 3.0-litre V6 petrol.
Two more engines, a 4.0 litre V8 petrol and diesel, will be added soon after. A range-topping 6.0 litre W12 is also scheduled for further down the line. All models come with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
A hybrid e-tron model will also be added and should be capable of up to 31 miles on electric power alone.
Giving it one up on some rivals, the A8 comes with Quattro four-wheel drive as standard. There’s no word on prices yet but expect the A8 to cost from around £70,000.