Audi unveils facelifted A8 at Frankfurt with updated tech and engines
Audi’s flagship saloon receives styling tweaks, new Matrix LED headlights, upgraded driver assistance and more efficient engines for its 2014 model year update.
Audi has pulled the covers off the facelifted A8 at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, bringing a sharper look, new lighting technology and a round of powertrain updates to its luxury saloon flagship.
The A8’s exterior changes are subtle but targeted. The Singleframe grille is now slightly shorter and loses one of its horizontal bars. The front bumper features a single wide air intake, while the headlights have been reshaped and the rear gains new taillights linked by a chrome strip. The body dimensions remain unchanged, except for the A8 L, which stretches a further 13cm in length and wheelbase.
Matrix LED headlights and new tech
Audi debuts its Matrix LED headlight system on the updated A8, with each unit housing 25 individually controlled diodes for adaptive high-beam functionality. The system reads navigation data to adjust the light pattern ahead of corners and junctions and incorporates dynamic indicators. V8 models in Germany get full LED headlights as standard, while Matrix LED remains an option. US buyers miss out due to regulatory restrictions on active headlamps.
Inside, the A8 receives new materials, a head-up display and expanded equipment. Driver assistance now includes active lane assist, a 360-degree parking camera and improved connectivity. Passengers can access the internet via an integrated UMTS module and WLAN hotspot, while the Audi connect suite brings Google Earth, Street View and live traffic data to the infotainment system.
Engine updates and hybrid option
Several engines benefit from increased power and efficiency. The 3.0 TFSI V6 rises to 310hp, the 4.0 TFSI V8 to 435hp, the 3.0 TDI to 258hp, and the 4.2 TDI to 385hp with a substantial 850Nm of torque. The range-topping W12 and S8 remain unchanged at 500hp and 520hp respectively. Cylinder-on-demand technology continues for the V8s. The A8 hybrid, pairing a 2.0 TFSI with an electric motor, offers a combined 245hp and can drive electrically for up to three kilometres at speeds of up to 100km/h.
| 3.0 TFSI V6 | 310hp |
|---|---|
| 4.0 TFSI V8 | 435hp |
| 3.0 TDI V6 | 258hp |
| 4.2 TDI V8 | 385hp, 850Nm |
| W12 | 500hp |
| S8 | 520hp |
| A8 hybrid (system) | 245hp, 480Nm |
Positioned against the new S-Class
Audi’s update comes as Mercedes-Benz launches its new W222 S-Class, intensifying competition in the premium saloon segment. With its refreshed design, advanced lighting and improved driver assistance, the A8 aims to remain competitive among luxury buyers. The facelifted A8 arrives in showrooms late 2013, with UK and European deliveries following shortly after.
