Audi launches A8 L and flagship A8 L W12 with 500hp V12
Audi adds a long-wheelbase A8 and a new 6.3-litre W12 engine, pushing its luxury saloon to 500hp and introducing a suite of advanced comfort and safety features.
Audi has unveiled the long-wheelbase A8 L and the range-topping A8 L W12, expanding its flagship saloon line-up with a focus on rear-seat luxury and a new 500hp 6.3-litre W12 engine. The A8 L stretches 130mm beyond the standard A8, with all additional length dedicated to rear passenger space. The A8 L W12 sits at the top of the range, combining performance and comfort in a package aimed at buyers seeking both pace and opulence.
Flagship W12 engine: power and refinement
Audi’s new 6.3-litre W12 FSI engine produces 368kW (500hp) and 625Nm of torque, available from 3,250rpm. The unusual W12 layout, with four rows of three cylinders and a 72-degree V angle, allows a compact engine, just over 50cm long, while delivering smoothness and performance expected at the top of the luxury segment. Audi claims 0–100km/h in 4.9 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h. Combined fuel consumption is quoted at 12.0l/100km under the EU test cycle.
The W12’s compact dimensions and lightweight construction, Audi quotes 247kg for the engine, help keep overall weight in check, which supports both handling and efficiency in a segment where many rivals rely on heavier V12s. Direct injection and a revised bore contribute to the power increase over the previous W12.
Rear-seat comfort and technology
The A8 L’s extra length is used entirely to increase rear passenger space. Longer rear doors improve access, and buyers can specify individual power-adjustable rear seats with heating, ventilation, lumbar adjustment and even a reclining function with footrest. Optional features include a full-length rear console with folding table or refrigerator, and a rear entertainment system with twin 10.2-inch screens. Four-zone climate control is standard, managed by 25 electric motors.
- Power-adjustable rear seats with massage and ventilation
- Full-length rear console with optional fridge or folding table
- Rear-seat entertainment with 10.2-inch screens
- Four-zone automatic climate control
The front passenger seat can also be moved from the rear to free up further legroom. The flagship rear seat features a massage function with four selectable programmes and a power-operated footrest. Materials and trim options include additional wood and leather, reinforcing the A8 L’s positioning as a mobile lounge for executive travel.
Safety and assistance systems
Audi has integrated its latest assistance and safety technologies, including night vision with pedestrian detection, lane assist, side assist for lane changes, and the Pre Sense safety system, which can automatically brake the car to reduce the severity of a collision. The navigation system is linked with other vehicle systems, using topographical data to optimise gear selection, lighting and adaptive cruise control.
Infotainment options include a Bang & Olufsen sound system with 1,400W and 19 speakers, as well as new online services developed with Google. An upcoming UMTS module will allow the car to display Google Earth imagery on the navigation screen and access live news and weather data. The rear-seat MMI control panel provides access to all major functions.
