Snapshot:
All new for 2004, the Audi A8L now establishes itself as a real competitor in the high-end German luxury market. It was formerly a two-way race between BMW and Mercedes... Audi has clearly upped the ante in this segment and is now worth a serious look.How Much?:
Price for a 2004 Audi A8L in the US starts at $68,500.The Inside Story:
With ultra-smooth styling and legroom that rivals today's limos, the Audi A8L mixes brawn (big V8), brains (gizmos) and agility (all-wheel drive) to produce the best big Audi ever made.Under the Hood:
The only engine available is a 4.2 liter V8 that produces a wonderful 330 horsepower. The A8L weighs well over two tons but still gets respectable gas mileage at: 17 city/ 24 highway.Transmissions:
The transmission is a six-speed automatic.Warranty:
Bumper-to-bumper is 4 years/50,000. Powertrain is same.Should you Buy a 2004 Audi A8L?:
Yes. Why? Style and exclusivity. In our town (New York City) a Mercedes is a dime a dozen. No one bats an eye at the S500 anymore. In fact, the S500 is used as a taxi for the rich -- talk about droll. BWM's ill-designed iDrive is enough to stop us from recommending the 745 over the A8L. This new Audi has everything you'll be looking for in a well-engineered, well-design, high-end German luxury car. While recommending an all-new vehicle is often risky business, we at About Cars think the A8L stands out in the German luxury crowd. It's got more room than the BMW and Mercedes and it'll even save you a few bucks.
