The A8L is a long-wheelbase version of Audi's aluminum-bodied executive sedan. A 4.2 liter, 40-valve 350 hp V-8 combines with a 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and Quattro permanent all-wheel drive for scintillating performance (0-60 in 5.8 seconds). Standard comfort, convenience and safety features include an intuituive multi-media interface that controls nearly everything from the sound system to driver-selected suspension settings. EPA mileage 18/25, price as tested: $93,450.
First Glance: Philip Powell, Titan of Industry
As a titan of industry -- which I am, at least, for the duration of this review -- I felt it appropriate that I conduct this test from the back seat of the Audi A8L. After all, it's a stretched version (link goes to photo) of the A8, aimed at well-off gentlemen who might expect to be driven. So I called my chauffeur Max and instructed him to give his impressions from the front while I offered mine as a passenger.
"Max," I asked, "are you enthused about driving the A8L? After all, luxury sedans are nothing new to you."
"Oh yes sir, the 352 hp V-8 and 6-speed Tiptronic promise scintillating performance and, of course, with Quattro all-wheel-drive and adaptive air suspension I expect we'll be cornering rather quickly. Are you comfortable back there, sir?"
"Indeed. As you'd expect, there's ample room for three though today it's just me and my secretary. With our own heated seats, climate controls, vanity mirrors, and plenty of storage for that premium Scotch I brought along, the surroundings are most pleasant... sorry, none for you until we return to the mansion but in the meantime why don't you demonstrate the 14-speaker sound system? 1000 watts, I believe."
"With noise compensation, too," Max added as Beethoven's 5th thundered through the cabin. "And I love watching those little speakers pop up from the corners of the dash..."
Continued below...In the Driver's Seat: Bring your cigars and hold on to your hats
"Max, where's your cap?"
"Sorry sir, it was knocked off when I was taking my seat. The roofline's rather low."
"I noticed that, too... hit my head climbing into the back. Hardly appropriate for a luxury car. That unusual control in the console -- the Multi Media Interface -- is it anything like BMW's infernal iDrive system?"
"Not at all," Max replied. "Intuitive, I'd say."
"Good, now you can concentrate on your driving. Aside from that, what else have you observed from the front seat?"
"Hard not to miss the nav screen rising from a hidden compartment when the engine's started. In spite of all the controls the interior seems subdued, as if to impress yet not overwhelm... something you would approve of. Yet I'm bothered by the small rear view mirrors and even with the rear seat unoccupied the headrests block my view."
"So not the ideal driving position," I said, stretching my legs. "Yet there must be other virtues for the driver?"
"Indeed. The rearview camera parking system helps when reversing. And I must say, sir, the ashtray is cigar-sized, suited to the egos of some Audi A8L owners."
"Disgusting!" I exclaimed. "What's that switch on the center console, by the way?"
"This one, sir? This is the electrically operated parking brake. Works just like a handbrake -- pull up to apply, push down to release."
"Just the kind of thing you'd expect the Germans to come up with, eh, Max?"
"Indeed, sir," replied Max. "Indeed."
On the Road: Chauffeurs just want to have fun
Max was clearly eager to try the car's performance. Perhaps too eager, for we had rocketed past 60 mph and were exceeding 100 in remarkable silence.
"Okay, Max, you've made your point, perhaps you should slow a little," I said, and immediately regretted it as he demonstrated the stopping power of the A8's four-wheel antilock disc brakes. "Were you letting the 6-speed auto do its thing?"
"Indeed, sir, I see little advantage in using the manual shift when the transmission operates so swiftly."
We were now into a series of gentle curves. Should I restrain Max from pushing hard or keep my peace? After all, we're here to test the car's limits, as much as common sense allows.
"You'll note," he said, deftly turning the 4-spoke leather-covered wheel, "that the A8L handles superbly on this rain-slickened surface. I credit the permanent all-wheel-drive and aluminum suspension."
"Perhaps the stability control and electronic differential lock are helping, too," I offered, trying to impress him with my knowledge of the car's technological wonders. I had to admit that even its passengers could feel safe and secure in such conditions. Feeling brave and with an empty expressway ahead, I decided to let him have his way with the throttle.
"Home, Max!"
Journey's End: A great ride, no matter which seat you choose
As we pulled into the curved driveway it was time to compare notes.
"We both agreed that entry and exit can be awkward, and you mentioned the small outside mirrors. Any further complaints from a driver's standpoint?"
"Not really, unless you include the fuel mileage, though that shouldn't concern you, sir, assuming you don't consider my remark inappropriate coming from a chauffeur. And I find the Audi8L performs like a thoroughbred sports sedan, in spite of its size. But how was it for you and your secretary? In the back seat? Uh, I mean..." Max stammered.
"I know what you mean, Max. Really! Yes, we were supremely comfortable. Appreciated the ambient lighting for storage compartments, footwells, and door handles. She liked the walnut brown trim with platinum inlays and especially the luscious suede-like Alcantara material. We both approve of the power rear sunshade and power-door-close assist. Even the first aid kit in the rear armrest is a nice touch."
"Let's not forget the front seat massager, headlight washers and tire pressure monitoring system, sir."
"Hmmm. Max, take milady inside and offer her a drink. I've been thinking about your sports sedan remarks. May go for a little spin myself."
Max smiled knowingly.
Next page: Pros, cons, details and specs
