The 2012 S8 is the third generation of S8 models. Although you can trace the S series' heritage back to 1985 where the S1 was part of the world rally championship, do not expect the newest addition to the S series to be anything like a rally car. Audi S8 is expected to be at the top when compared to similar cars in its class such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Lexus LS and the Maserati Quattroporte.
Yes, it is the faster than the previous model car, but the raw speed does not make it the leader of its class. Audi S8 weights two tons, which mean the model requires serious braking abilities to help it stop. Audi equipped this model with high quality ceramic brakes. Audi also introduced a new sound system which makes the S8 quieter than previous generations.
So, the S8 is quieter and faster than previous models, but is also much more economical. All around, the new Audi A8 is just a better car than all of it's predecessors. The S8 boasts a Power-turbo V8 petrol TFSI engine under the hood that provides 513 horsepower. This new engine replaces the V10FSI engine in the previous incarnation of the S8 and increases it's output by 69 horsepower.
Pressing the throttle, you can feel the 650 Nm torque that provides superior performance. The S8 accelerates from 0 – 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. Top speed of the car is electronically limited to 250 km/h. Driving this car through slow traffic is like child's play – with the slightest touch of the accelerator you will hurtle past other cars.
Eight-speed automatic transmission is standard on all vehicles and provides incredibly quick and smooth gear changes. The car also features the steering-wheel mounted buttons for speed and gear control. The new Audi S8 feels like a very agile car.
At high speeds, air suspension smooths the ride so the S8 is incredibly stable feeling. The S8 is quiet and fast on the highway, but might not provide enough feedback from the steering wheel for some. Handling is responsive and direct, but it feels slightly artificial in tight corners. The car comes standard with steel brakes, but if you plan to use the car for racing on the tracks, ceramic brakes are the way to go.
The S8 has a system to reduce engine noise, which makes riding in the cab more pleasant. Much more pleasant than other cars of this class. The system is activated when the car is in operation and effectively reduces the noise of the cylinders by 50 percent. This allows the driver and passengers to travel with less noise. Wind noise and road noise are also minimized by double glazed windows and the seats are very comfortable and decent support when taking sharp turns.
The S8 also features the advanced MMI (Multi Media Interface). It is a very easy to use system with large colour screen on the dashboard. This is used to control most of the functions of the board including satellite navigation and the stereo system.
This updated system makes its debut in the A8 and includes an intelligent touch-pad that allows you to write letters and number with the index finger of your hand. The capacity of the trunk is similar in size to the BMW 7 series, boasting 510 litres of space, although the trunk of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is larger.
The new interior design debuted in the A8 and S8, but it shares a similar layout of controls and switches with the previous generation. The car has a unique lever-shaped pedal, and an analogue clock in the middle of the centre console.
Along with the elegant design that gives the interior a very luxurious look, the controls are intuitive and very well laid out. Most of the functions are controlled through the MMI.
The standard quality and finish of material is first class. Standard leather seating and subtle lighting are very classy. Both front seats are electronically adjustable, as you might expect of a luxury sedan, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position. S8 gets a gold star for decent fuel economy which puts it at the front of its class. Maintenance costs are equally competitive of level luxury brands.
The new S8 is not yet crash test rated by Euro NCAP, but Audi generally has good performance in terms of safety models as exemplified by models like the A4, A6 and Q5, which received the maximum 5 star rating. The incredible Audi S8 comes with integrated headrests to counter the risk of whiplash five three-point seat belts, ISOFIX and stability control. All models have a system called Pre Sense, which uses sensors which help avoid collision.
In the event of a car sensing an avoidable collision, the driver will be warned of the danger. The car is also equipped with night vision assistant. Additional Systems included for safety are numerous with the latest technological advancements incorporated. Like their German Counterparts, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, reliability is a key advantage for Audi and the reason why most owners prefer the brand.