Audi A8 - car review

Photo Audi A8

The Audi A8 is a high-performance, high-performance executive sedan, the flagship of the Audi range. It was first shown in February 1994. A car with a front or full (quattro) drive, carrying a body made of an aluminum alloy made using the "space frame" technology has a rich equipment based on electronics and modern technologies. All-wheel drive modification 2.8 quattro came out in 1995. In June of the same year, a new 3.7 V8 engine was installed. In January 1996, the 2.8 V6 30 valve engine (193 hp) appears.

Expansion of all the modifications of the A8 series. Until 1996, air conditioning was included in the standard package only cars equipped with "eight". Now, air conditioning without additional charge can be used by car owners with 6-cylinder engines.

Photo Audi A8

The front-wheel drive version is additionally equipped with an anti-slip system, four side airbags (plus airbags for the driver and front passenger). The new range of engines of 1997 is, first of all, a V-shaped six-cylinder diesel with turbocharging and direct injection. Its working volume is 2.5 liters, and power reaches 150 hp. Balance, power characteristics, as well as economic indicators put the 2.5 TDI engine on a par with the best engines in its class. In addition, the A8 comes with a 2.8-liter six-cylinder engine, as well as a V-shaped "eight" with a displacement of 3.7 and 4.2 liters with a capacity of 230 and 300 hp.

respectively. The car can be equipped with both a manual gearbox and the five-speed “automatic” of ZF. Model S8 is a particularly high-speed version of the A8 and is equipped with a V-shaped "eight" with increased to 340 hp. power and manual 6-speed gearbox. In November 1998, a new modification of the Audi A8 was introduced in Germany, in June 1999 a model with increased power appeared, in February 2000 - with a new 2.5 V6 Tdi engine (180 hp). The car body is completely made of light alloys using the Space Frame technology (“space frame”). On the frame, welded from aluminum profiles, aluminum panels are hung - wings, roof, sidewalls.

Photo Audi A8

All parts are made of special aluminum alloy, which is not susceptible to corrosion, can be easily processed and better absorb the impact energy. Front and rear independent suspension, four-link, assembled on a stretcher. The upgraded version looks different from the previous new grille, modified bumpers and door handles, as well as headlights with smooth glass. In general, the differences are not noticeable. Several modified body structure.

Electronic motion stabilization system is now included in the serial equipment. The richly decorated interior is equipped with airbags in the head for those sitting in front and behind. Redesigned interior cabin lighting. Eight-cylinder engines are equipped with new heads with five valves per cylinder and intake path of variable length.

Photo Audi A8

As a result, the engine capacity of 3.7 liters increased to 191 kW, torque - up to 350 Nm, and engine power of 4.2 liters - up to 228 kW, torque - 410 Nm. To reduce the unsprung weight and improve the driveability of the drive wheels are also made of aluminum alloy. The Audi A8 with a turbodiesel has the highest technical characteristics: power is 150hp, torque is higher than 310 Nm, and it remains maximum in a record wide rev range (from 1500 to 3200), fuel consumption is at a speed of 90, 120 km / h and in the urban cycle - 4.4; 5.7; 8.5 liters per 100 kilometers.

German Chancellor Heinrich Schroeder preferred the long-wheelbase Audi A8, specially made for him, to representative cars Mercedes, which were traditionally used by German chancellors. In 2000, the A8 family was supplemented by two new diesel units with a capacity of 180 and 225 hp. Now the A8 program includes five engines of 180-310 hp, three of which can be installed on the front and all-wheel drive chassis. We note in particular the first in Europe 3.3-liter V8 diesel engine with a capacity of 225 hp, which turns the A8 3.3TDI into a kind of “diesel” express, ideally suited for economical driving on autobahns.

Photo Audi A8

This power unit is equipped only with a 5-step "automatic" and only on the Quattro chassis. Its maximum speed reaches 242 km / h, acceleration from standstill to 100 km / h - 8.2 s, and fuel consumption in the conventional European suburban driving cycle - just 7.3 l / 100 km against 8.9 l / 100 km for 260 horsepower gasoline counterpart. The most prestigious is the A8 Quattro 4.2 equipment, which is elongated by 130 mm with a 310 hp engine. The car may have an exclusive interior and be designed as an “office on wheels”. Interestingly, even in this class, Audi has a special "sports" version of the S8.

At first, it was only completed with a 6-speed manual gearbox, but later a 5-speed Tiptronic “automatic” appeared, quite naturally, equipped with a DSP system, enabling “manual” gear changes. The S8 chassis is distinguished by 18-inch wheels and a stiffer suspension with less than 20 mm ground clearance. The machine is designed for wealthy people who prefer to drive a car. The level of safety and comfort S8 is very high. The technical level of top Audi models is steadily increasing. Now fans of limousines with an aluminum body are offered the most powerful modification - the Audi A8 W12 - equipped with a 6.0-liter 12-cylinder engine with a capacity of 420 liters.

Photo Audi A8

from. In 2002, a new generation Audi A8 appeared at the Paris Motor Show. The modified exterior with its proportions and graphics resembles its predecessor. An uncompromising car with a fresh look at the classic performance of a luxury sedan and Audi brand sporty accent. Applying advanced technologies, the German concern confidently pressed its German counterparts in the market - Mercedes Benz and BMW.

The cars use the same platform as the Volkswagen Phaeton and Bentley. At the same time, the Audi A8 weighs 1780 kg, while the Phaeton weighs 2291 kg. Audi A8 weighs less due to the fact that some parts are made of aluminum. Improved body of the new A8 - more rigid and reliable than ever.

Photo Audi A8

Mass reduction means lower fuel consumption and improved dynamics. The level of equipment A8 second generation is not inferior to competitors. Among other systems, there is an adaptive radar cruise control that automatically maintains a predetermined distance to the vehicle in front, a tire pressure monitoring system, a multifunctional steering wheel with six-speed automatic control buttons, and an electromechanical parking brake. There is also a special highlight - the so-called adaptive head light: when cornering, the headlights shine not only forward, but also sideways, in the direction of maneuver.

The security system includes “double action” inflatable cushions, which, depending on the impact force, are inflated completely or partially, new active head restraints in the front seats, as well as inflatable curtains to protect the head during side impact. In addition, a full-size ring-shaped airbag is installed in the Audi A8 on the driver’s side, which is particularly effective in preventing a crash on the steering wheel in a collision. From its predecessor, the car borrowed a permanent four-wheel drive with Torsen self-locking center differential, but got a new six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission that allows you to move in manual or automatic mode.

Photo Audi A8

On the A8 there is an air suspension, similar to that installed on the Audi Allroad. The stiffness of the suspension varies in three modes: sporty, normal and comfortable. Tires with run flat system, on which you can continue to move even after a puncture. The wheels are 18.3 inches in diameter.

The V8 3.7 engine of the new Audi A8 develops power of 280 hp, and its torque reaches 360 Nm at 3600 rpm. Even more powerful V8 4.2. Impressive 335 hp and acceleration from zero to 100 km / h in 6.1 seconds. But exceptional dynamics does not mean compromise with comfort.

Photo Audi A8

The new 6-speed tiptronic gearbox provides unsurpassed smoothness, superior comfort, and also monitors the level position of the body, regardless of the longitudinal or transverse dynamic loads. And thanks to quattro permanent all-wheel drive and an adaptable air suspension, engine power is used optimally. All these innovations serve as a worthy filling of the classic German top-class sedan, distinguished by its art of combining the most advanced technologies with the luxury of hand-finished leather and wood in an elaborate interior to the smallest details. In 2005, the range of engines replenished 3.2 FSI V6 with direct injection is already familiar from the model A6.

This 260-horsepower engine gives a heavy executive sedan a weight of two tons of quite decent temperament. The boundary speed of 100 km / h is overcome in 7.7 s. The diesel engine family has expanded with the advent of the 4.2 TDI V8. It is lightweight, compact, low noise and economical.

During its development all the latest technical solutions were used: the block is made of cast iron with graphite additives, the surfaces of the cylinders are laser-processed, two turbochargers (each responsible for its own row of cylinders) have a variable turbine geometry. The preparation of the working mixture is the last generation Common Rail system. For more precise control over the injection process, Audi engineers equipped the nozzles with piezo crystals. Compressed under the influence of electric current, they speed up the process of supplying the required amount of fuel to the cylinders by half. The result is record power and tremendous torque. 4.2 TDI develops 326 forces.

Torque - 650 Nm, which is 70 Nm more, than the flagship petrol engine W12. Fuel consumption - only 8 liters of diesel per 100 km. In 2007, the German manufacturer has updated the model. Exterior changes have not changed. Externally, the updated A8 can be distinguished by a modified grille, rectangular fog instead of round, turn signals on the mirror housings and chrome lining on the door handles. Behind the car also transformed, having received new LED light units and a slightly modified trunk lid. All models now use a modified suspension and improved steering gear. Improved soundproofing cabin.

Expanded the color scheme of the interior, offered even better materials trim. The model has undergone not only external changes. Significant efforts of the manufacturer were also directed to the revision of the filling of the flagship model range. The lineup of power units was replenished with the engine 2.8 FSI with a power of 210 hp, which migrated to the A8 with the A6. Its highlight is the Audi Valve Lift system. In fact, this is a copy of the Honda i-VTEC system - there are two cams for each inlet valve: “economical” and “power”.

Only, unlike the Japanese, Audi minders minimize the intake phase - due to less vacuum at the throttle, pumping losses are reduced. At low loads and revs up to 4000 rpm, the lift of one valve is 5.7 mm, and the second is only 2 mm, which contributes to the turbulence of the air in the cylinder. Under a full throttle, even at lower revs, six solenoids (one for each cylinder) are shifted along the coupling splines to “power” cams - and both intake valves open already 11 mm. This allows you to reach speeds of 100 km / h in 8 seconds with a very moderate gasoline consumption: 8.3 liters per 100 km.

Audi A8 2.8 FSI is equipped with front-wheel drive and multitronic automatic transmission. The Line Assist system uses a video camera in the salon mirror to track the road markings. If the driver falls asleep or begins to rebuild without the indicator being turned on, the electronics immediately turn on the steering wheel vibration. And you can select three amplitude levels through the MMI menu. The third generation Audi A8 was introduced in 2009 in Miami. Sales began in March 2010, and in April they presented an extended version of the Audi A8 long with a wheelbase “stretched” by 130 mm.

The design of the new Audi A8 is a harmonious synthesis of smooth, powerful dynamics and a majestic appearance. Sports temperament is particularly well expressed by the coupe-style roofline. The car has grown a little, compared to its predecessor - its dimensions have increased by 75 mm in length and 55 mm in width. But he became lower by 16 mm. The length of the sedan - 5137 (version L - 5267) mm, width - 1949, height - 1460 (1 471); wheelbase - 2992 (3122) mm, track - 1644/1635 mm.

The capacity of the trunk - 510 liters, and in the back of the rear seat has a hatch for long-length. The new A8 is now fully LED optics, as well as many security systems, including the Pre Sense accident prevention system, pedestrian recognition system, night vision system, adaptive cruise control, etc. The body is completely made of aluminum, its torsional rigidity has increased by 24% .

At the same time, the weight of the car remained the same as that of the previous G8, and it is less than the main competitors: the BMW 7-series and the Mercedes S-class. Curb weight - from 1830 kg (with a 3-liter TFSI), with the "eight" FSI car is 5 kg heavier. Details of the chassis are also made of light alloys. Of course, the front and rear of the A8 have a kinematically perfect suspension on double wishbones - and with pneumatic elastic elements. Transverse stabilizers, shock absorber stiffness is adjusted in real time by Drive Select electronics.

So, at the speed of landing a sedan above the road automatically (by means of pneumatics) decreases by 25 mm. The center of gravity is lower - and the air resistance is reduced. Air resistance coefficient is 0.26. In the “state”, the A8 tires have a size of 235 / 60R (with a petrol “eight”) or 235 / 55R (with a heavy turbodiesel) - on 17- or 18-inch light-alloy wheels. Among the options are stylish 21-inch. Steering gear-rack mechanism with servotronic hydraulic booster.

Plus the fantastic Audi Dynamic Steering - already at extra charge. Brake discs are ventilated, ABS and ESP work under the general control of Drive Select. The third-generation Audi A8 made a breakthrough in equipping information systems and telematics. So, the "music", by default, Bose (14 speakers) - or the optional Advanced Sound System from Bang & Olufsen at 1400 watts. And naturally, infotainment electronics for passengers of the 2nd row: a pair of 10.2-inch monitors above the backs of the front seats, a DVD player and a 20 GB hard drive.

Moreover, digital processors control everything - from the “standard” 2-zone “climate control” (4-zone for a fee) to the optional Audi Dynamic Steering steering mechanism. The interior has become wider, lighter and more spacious. The quality of materials at the highest level. In addition, Audi practices custom made upholstery. There are five primary colors for the factory-made interior and three shades for the roof trim. Audi also offers several leather packages, Alcantara and an optional aluminum interior package.

The new Audi A8 debuted a new generation multimedia MMI system with a touchpad that has learned to recognize letters and numbers, thanks to which the driver can enter a location name for the navigation system or dial a phone number. In standby mode, the monitor of the MMI system is recessed into the instrument panel. When turned on, the eight-inch flat and thin screen is located above the front panel. You can control the lighting color (ruby, white or yellowish) using the MMI. The standard function of the front seats is 12 directions of electrical adjustment. If this is not enough, for an additional charge, the seats will have 22 adjustments.

You can order sports seats, internal ventilation and even pneumatic massage. The massager is the air pulsing in the backs of the seats according to five different programs and with a given intensity. The automatic air conditioning system is adjustable from both the front and rear seats. The system works in three modes - soft, medium and strong.

For winter, there is also a fourth mode with intensive heating of the foot zone of all passengers. Initially, the manufacturer offers two types of engines: 4.2 FSI gasoline engine with a capacity of 372 hp and diesel V8 TDI with a 351 hp turbocharger. An impressive stock of engine power provides excellent road performance and impeccable handling. At the same time, fuel consumption and unwanted emissions are significantly reduced compared to the previous model. A new generation engine management system and innovative heat management systems help reduce fuel consumption. The engine warms up quickly to operating temperature after a cold start, which reduces power loss due to friction.

The 4.2 FSI engine requires only 9.5 liters of fuel per 100 km. The engine, which has a maximum torque of 445 Nm, allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km / h in just 5.7 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km / h. A little later, the diesel version 3.0 V6 TDI of 250 hp became available. The new 8-speed automatic transmission of the German company ZF transmits torque to all wheels through the Torsen center differential, which distributes it in the ratio of 40:60 in favor of the rear wheels. Automatic transmission allows forced control (tiptronic) - either by a lever on the center console, or under the steering wheel switches.

From now on, all versions of the A8 will be all-wheel drive. The car harmoniously combines the conservatism of design and the most advanced technical solutions. In 2013, an updated model of the A8 sedan was presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show, including its extended version of the A8 L. Cars received both external and internal modifications, more economical engines and modern technical stuffing. The standard model has retained its size. The A8 L Sedan got a wheelbase longer by 130 millimeters and became as long as the car itself (5267 millimeters from bumper to bumper). The models feature a new front bumper, a revised hood and a modified one-piece grille.

There was an additional chrome finish and five new body colors, which expands the selection to 12 shades in total. Behind the flat lights combined with a pair of diamond-shaped exhaust pipes located at the edges of the bumper. Both headlights and rear lights use standard LED technology as standard. As an option, the developer offers the installation of innovative Matrix LED headlamps, with intelligent control of the light beam. These headlights use 25 individual diodes to achieve the optimum amount of light, regardless of the situation. Internal changes mainly affected the possibility of choosing a variety of interior materials.

Salon meets high-quality leather upholstery and leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear lever cover. The dashboard is easy to use and easy to read. And with the help of a projection display, some of the information for the driver is displayed on the windshield. The list of equipment, both in standard configurations and in additional options, is as always endless.

In the basic version, a three-seat sofa is installed at the back. A pair of separate seats is an option for all modifications, except for "top", with a motor W12 (for it is standard equipment). The massive center console, dividing the sofa back into two parts - is also set for a surcharge. Several updated systems appeared on the security front, including active lane retention (making minor steering adjustments), parking assistance and a Head-Up Display. Affected the changes and engine compartment of the car.

The power of all, without exception, power units has increased and at the same time they have become more economical in fuel consumption and more environmentally friendly (comply with the requirements of the Euro-6 standard). As a driving force, a choice of a pair of diesel and a pair of gasoline engines, as well as a hybrid version of the power plant with an electrical assistant for the engine, is offered. The gasoline 8-cylinder engine of 4.0 TFSI with dual turbo power of 435 hp became the top. It can accelerate the sedan from zero to 100 km / h in 4.5 seconds. With a measured trip for the benefit of fuel economy, the engine can shut off as unnecessary 4 of 8 cylinders.

A more modest gasoline engine has a volume of 3.0 TFSI develops power 310 hp The line of diesel engines is headed by a 4.2-liter engine producing 385 hp, which can have an impressive torque of 850 Nm. The most economical 3.0-liter diesel with a capacity of 258 horsepower. This motor consumes an average of only 5.9 liters of diesel fuel.

In other versions of the car engines have not changed. For example, the model A8 L W12 Quattro, which is equipped with a 6.3 liter W12 gasoline engine, develops a power of 500 hp. (as well as in previous generations of cars). The hybrid version of the A8 combines a 2.0 liter TFSI engine and an electric motor, which together provides 245 hp of power. with a maximum torque of 480 Nm.

The hybrid model consumes an average of 6.3 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers. Only electric power hybrid sedan is able to travel up to 3 kilometers at a speed below 100 km / h. The torque of the motors is transmitted to all the driving wheels of the Quattro brand all-wheel drive with the help of a fast 8-speed Tiptronic automatic gearbox.

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