Audi’s full-size luxury sedan will be entering the 2011 model year with an overhaul fit to be called the vehicle’s third generation. This new model made its world debut in Miami at the Audi Pavilion in Miami Beach in 2009 with sales beginning in late 2010.
The 2011 Audi A8 is based on the Volkswagen Group MLB platform, but maintains its Audi Space Frame aluminum construction as the previous generation. A new engine will be introduced for this generation as the 6.3 liter W12 engine finds a home in the A8. As far as knick-knacks are concerned, the sedan will feature all light-emitting diode (LED) headlights, an enhanced Multi Media Interface with touchscreen, and an optional 1400 watt Bang & Olufsen sound system.
Audi says the new A8 is the sportiest sedan in the segment, aided by a low center of gravity and the lowest roofline of any German rival. Despite adding two inches to the length, width and wheelbase -- and one additional inch of height -- Audi reckons handling has actually improved.
The 4.2-liter FSI V8 motor will continue on under the hood of the A8 with a few revisions and modest power bump. The 372 horsepower unit also promises reduced fuel consumption by 15 percent. Coupled to the motor is a new eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission with manual mode. Manual gear selection is available via steering wheel rockers or by using the regular gear selection lever.
The A8 will also feature the newest version of Quattro, which features torque vectoring. This distributes drive individually between each axle and between the rear wheels for improved traction and stability. An optional sport differential distributes power between the rear wheels for optimal performance under hard cornering.
Specifications
VEHICLE TYPE : front-engine, 4-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
ESTIMATED BASE PRICE: $90,000
ENGINE TYPE: DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 254 cu in, 4163cc
Power (SAE net): 372 bhp @ 6800 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 328 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
TRANSMISSION: 8-speed automatic with manumatic shifting
DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 117.8 in Length: 202.2 in
Width: 76.7 in Height: 57.5 in
Curb weight (C/D est): 4400 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST):
Zero to 60 mph: 5.5 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 14.0 sec
Top speed (governor limited): 155 mph
FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST):
EPA city/highway driving: 18/25 mpg