Design

Audi design is always fascinating for their intelligence complex. The outer skin of the new Audi A8 transmits the homogeneity, as if the model of an entire volume. A coupe-roofline allows the flow of figure sculpted surfaces to convey calm and contrast of prestige, with clear lines. The new A8 highlights the leading position held by Audi in the field of automotive design. Representing the forefront of many innovative technologies, the Audi A8 indicates that this role through new and progressive design elements.

5137 mm (16.85 feet) long, 2992 mm (9.82 m) wheelbase 1949 mm (6.39 feet) wide and 1460 mm (4.79 feet) - the sedan Deluxe is generously proportioned. The Audi A8 is significantly higher than in length and width of both its predecessor and its competitors. Its height, however, remains below that of its nearest rivals in Germany - the proportions are in line dynamics.


The Audi A8 shows his unique radiator grille as a proud coat of arms. Framed by a chrome border, the grill features a new design - carved, three-dimensional and rich in detail. With the top corner angle, it is perfectly integrated into the front, while prominent, horizontal chrome keys to highlight the breadth of the vehicle.

The Audi A8 looks at the world through new design headlights - with more units of the innovative xenon and LED headlamps complete, Audi technology was first introduced worldwide in the Audi R8 high-performance sports the car. The xenon light system adaptive increases the more units - which controls the modules swivel so that it always provides the perfect lighting for intersections, the city, rural roads and highways. The new all-time light integrated into the headlights replacing fog lights. Its traditional setting in the air intakes is now occupied by the radar sensors to monitor the optional cruise speed Stop & Go function.

Audi A technological advance is the network control unit plus headlights with optional MMI navigation. The navigation system analyzes the road ahead and sends the data to the computer light to activate the lighting of roads, with its wide range, while still on the ramp of the highway, for example. Before entering an intersection, the system activates the light curves, which offers greater angle of illumination and therefore improved safety.

LED High tech: LED headlights complete

The high end solution aboard the new A8 is full LED headlamps. They give the big sedan a distinctive appearance, even in daylight and even more so after the fall of darkness. Its revolutionary point means a shift away from large, tubular light modules used today.

The low beams composed of ten individual modules in an arc below the wing-shaped chrome surround known as the "wing." Just below, there is another arc of 22 white and 22 yellow LED lights for daytime running lamps and turn signals. Their technology makes them appear thick-walled from the outside as homogeneous, continuous bands of light.

Located above the wing are the headlights, whose light is generated by two powerful four-chip LEDs and a reflector system of free surface. An aide to switch between high and low beams and additional high-power LED to generate the main beam and the light curves. A fan and heat sink separately moderate temperature of the system.

The LED lights offer a full range of functional benefits in everyday situations. With a color temperature of 5500 degrees Kelvin, the light resembles daylight, and therefore is much less tiring for the eyes.  They also offer greater efficiency. Low beams, for example, consumes only 40 watts per unit, slightly less than the already highly efficient xenon plus lights.

The side view of the new Audi A8, also gives the picture of concentration and forward thrust power. Typically for Audi line, the line of vehicles represents two thirds of the height, and the third to the fall of greenhouse gases. From within a single row of the grid property of Audi Tornado is running as a rim of light, just below the windowsill. The line continues above the wheel arches near what the Audi A8 looks powerful on the road.

The areas below the line Tornado interpret the play of light and shadow, convexity and concavity, and the statement of seriousness and timeless elegance. Following down surfaces are part of the dynamic line above the growth run side skirts. Large wheels - 17 to 21 inches in diameter - to fill the wheel arches are pulled wide.

In the rear edge of the separation gives an impression of smoothness, which further reinforces the stunning sculpted surfaces. A chrome strip highlights the breadth of the saloon, which ends in a diffuser.

The rear lights also produce a three dimensional look both amazing - and typically Audi.  They also use LED technology, with 72 light emitting diodes per unit. Chip-on-board LEDs, which can be tight, with high precision, are used in many areas due to the limited amount of space available.

The rear lights, which consume only 9 watts per unit, the shape of a trapezoidal shape that appears as a band, even homogeneous. Its upper end is a light guide - a plastic tube, the bottom section is a reflection, textured free-form surface. Is thicker than the upper segment to visually lower the center of gravity of the rear of the Audi A8. The turn signal is a horizontal line. The five segment brake light is inside the trapezoid.

Body

Large, strong, confident and yet incredibly lightweight - aluminum body, once again sets new standards. Its low weight is a key factor for the exceptional driving dynamics, exemplary efficiency and good comfort of the new A8. Audi, lightweight design pioneer in the auto industry, once again demonstrates its leadership role.

Fifteen years ago, the brand with four rings introduced the technology of Audi Space Frame (ASF) in the production - with the first generation Audi A8. ASF has shown outstanding merit, and now Audi is using it in a much more advanced. In its basic body design ASF lattice framework brings to mind. Its structure consists of extruded sections and pieces of pressure die casting aluminum. Aluminum panels - such as the panels of the roof and side panels - are linked by connections of friction.

Depending on your tasks, fully ASF body components differ in shape and cross-sectional area. For example, the A-nodes of the pillars of the new Audi A8 - one of the 25 pieces molded in the body - interconnecting the longitudinal members, the sill, the omega cross-member, cross the windshield, the roof frame and suspension mounting bracket. The side frame of the roof, on the other hand, consists of a single extrusion section, and his commitment to the changes in a flexible section of the A-pillar of the C-pillar.

Audi has significantly increased the strength of the strongest components in the body of the Audi A8, which significantly reduces both material thickness and weight.

 A key to this is a novel compound material for aluminum panels. The use of this new alloy of high strength aluminum only allowed a weight saving of 6.5 kg (14.33 lbs).

High rigidity, low vibration

In addition to its low weight, the body of the Audi A8 ASF has many other strengths. The static torsional rigidity has increased by 25 percent compared to its predecessor, already a leader in the field but that is the basis for the precise and dynamic handling. In terms of quality lightweight - the relationship between weight, torsional rigidity and size - the agency to achieve an improvement of 20 percent. The principle of ASF conveniently ensures low vibration and quiet amazing feeling aboard that typical Audi.

The new A8 glides quietly, elegantly and silently in the wind. The 4.2 FSI has a drag coefficient of just 0.26, with the frontal area measuring 2.41 m2 (25.94 square feet). Low lift coefficients on the front and rear axles, ensure the stability of confidence at highway speeds. The luxury sedan also leads his class again in the comfort of wind noise.

Audi refers to the development of a new vehicle as an integral mission. The global energy balance to cover the entire life of the vehicle reveals the new Audi A8 achieves better results than its predecessor on all major environmental criteria, including emissions of CO2. The crucial factor is the use phase, where in particular the new highly efficient engines play a positive role. Aluminum is also higher than that of steel as a material body with respect to CO2 due to its excellent recycling properties.

Interior

The interior of the new Audi A8 is a wellness room for the senses. With its elegant style and quality workmanship in the craft level, the interior is profoundly rooted in the philosophy of the brand with four rings. The cut is much larger, airy and spacious than its predecessor. His most striking element is the "wrap-around" - a circumference curve forming an elegant waistline like a yacht. The large curved instrument panel integrates sleek and low. His forehead is clean and tidy way to a smooth wave.

The philosophy of clear and intuitive operation of the Audi brand reaches new heights in the Audi A8. The large round instruments are clearly delineated. The Driver Information System (DIS), which serves as a full information and control center, has a new design. Its main screen has increased by 7-inch diagonal, which shows all functions according to a concept easily understood. It is operated in the same wheel multifunction improving management.

The center tunnel: a perfect control console

The central tunnel of the new Audi A8 is widely and evenly sloping. As an ideal ergonomic control console, which contains the control panel for automatic air conditioning and the MMI control terminal and entertainment system, now in a new version. A touch is so clearly organized and feel the arrangement of three zones, one of which is reserved for audio. The operation is completely free of stress: the driver's wrist on the selector lever 8-tiptronic, asymmetrically located in the central tunnel, leaving his hand on ease of play and turn the switches.

In standby mode, the monitor of the MMI system is hidden in the dashboard. Power, moves up in an elegant curve, very well to the staging system startup. The large monitor, with its 8-inch diagonal is very flat. Its exhibition area is divided into three areas of information, while the menu control system follows a logic of further improving and intuitive. All topics are presented in elegant, three-dimensional graphics.

The Audi A8 also sets the bar to new heights in the quality of labor, another major domain of Audi. The combination of high quality materials and their application within a sensual experience. The large controls and buttons are available with optional aluminum surfaces and click ease and precision like clockwork. Many switches of gloss black finish and all parts used are the subject of a new type of upper layer making them extremely resistant to scratches.

The large decorative inlays consist of two parts - a very elegant solution. The substance come in standard black polished, senior walnut brown, while the whole is accentuated by thin strips of chrome. Polished aluminum and fine wood, are optionally available for Audi. All components of the functions of uncompromising workmanship precise and minimum gaps.

Audi offers five basic colors for the interior, and three colors for the roof lining. The selection ranges for coating leather, very soft and breathable. Passionate individualists can choose between two teams of Audi design in colors that integrate many features of luxury equipment. Audi also offers several packages of leather, Alcantara package and expanded aluminum look inside.

Highly emotional: the orchestration of the light

At night, another high-end features come into play - the new ambient light. White LED to add some subtle highlights inside. The ambient light package is a general emotional orchestration, providing effective lighting and make the center console appear to float. LEDs Many here are of two colors or three colors - the color schemes of ivory, polar and Ruby can be selected on the MMI. In other words, the same LEDs can switch between two and three colors.

The many sophisticated solutions in the new Audi A8 include start / stop button, which allows the driver to start the engine and leaving the key in his pocket. The automatic climate control regulates the indoor climate in two areas, and, optionally, four.  Three styles are available climate - mild, medium and high - which also changes the flow of air. For winter, fourth variant has the footwell is heated more intensely.

The standard front seats have 12-way power adjustment. The seats offer even more luxurious comfort with its 22-way adjustment, including the incorporation of the sides of the seats. Audi also offers optional seats with a sporty look and top-stitched diamond pattern. Three stages of ventilation is provided, in addition to heating. Another bonus is the massage luxury tire, in which the air chambers double click on the back - the driver and front passenger adjustable in five programs, with the intensity he graduated in three stages.

As a large luxury sedan Audi A8 also turn the question back to its passengers on a first-class level. Upon request, Audi even offers rear seats with electrically adjustable exterior versatile seating, an onboard memory function that fits the front passenger seat of the rear. Seat heating, electric shutters and four automatic air conditioning in the area, along with a separate round rear control panel outside the package. Ventilation and massage function is also available.

The new A8 510 liters of luggage compartment offers large, cut very wide. Four golf bags can be installed transversely, the smallest objects are housed in the lateral compartments. After unlocking the door automatically to change. The standard (in USA) includes a network boot, two bag hooks, holds an umbrella and a power of 12 V. Load through capability with ski bag and a power tailgate is also available.

Engines

The higher power and high efficiency - the new Audi A8, makes its debut on the market with a powerful V8 engine. With 372 horsepower, never fail to impress with its superior power and propulsion powerful but discreet. All engines have direct fuel injection and consume 15 percent less fuel than their predecessors.

The engine in the A8 has features intelligent modular efficiency system Audi on board. During the slowdown in the recovery of the system converts kinetic energy into electrical energy that is stored in the battery. In the heat treatment of numerous actuators innovation of a computer monitor to the ideal distribution of heat flows from the engine, transmission and interior in any situation. After cold start the engine is temporarily totally disconnected from the cooling circuits, shortening the heating phase, with its great loss of friction.

 The 4.2 FSI 273 kW call (372 hp) of power of 4,163 cm3 of displacement, the peak generation of 445 Nm (328.22 lbs-ft) of torque at 3,500 rpm. Audi A8 accelerates from zero to 100 km / h in 5.7 seconds, with the propulsion of completion (as in all engine variants) to the electronically controlled speed of 250 km / h (155.34 mph).
 

The most important reason for this enhanced power is the reduction of internal friction, especially in the chain drive for camshafts and auxiliaries. The oil pump-controlled switching between the two stages of pressure operates with high efficiency. Like all Audi petrol engines, the V8 has FSI direct injection. It allows a high 12.5:1 compression, increased power and efficiency.

Drivetrain

The new Audi A8 offers the utmost superiority also in power transmission. A new 8-speed electronic control system tiptronic and quattro permanent four-wheel production line. Upon request, Audi also set up the differential dynamic sport.

The 8-speed tiptronic automatic transmission is a completely new development. Its strength lies in the high overall transmission rate of 7.0:1 between the child and the relationship running longer, reducing fuel consumption by around six percent. Based on the Audi A8 accelerates dynamic, rolling along the roads with low consumption speed reduction. All gear changes are almost imperceptibly soft and smooth, very fast and very flexible.

The 8-speed tiptronic achieves a high level of efficiency. One factor behind this is high-efficiency pump for the supply of oil, other oil heating by the refrigerant after a cold start to reduce friction loss.

The dynamic shift program (DSP) which controls the transmission of the characteristics of the automatic modes D and S. Audi's pioneering innovation is the creation of data networks with location plan provided by the optional MMI navigation system plus. Using these data, the next curves DSP incorporates in its strategy of changing gears - that prevents unnecessary shifting on narrow roads, for example.

The new selector lever on the center tunnel is used to select driving modes - the shape of the lever, on a yacht, is a relief in the elegant interior of the saloon. The improved ergonomic handle communicates with the electronic transmission. The gear changes are triggered by a brief touch of the lever, after which it automatically returns to its central position. You can also change gear with the rocker switches on the steering wheel.

The installation position of the new Tiptronic gearbox is a special design - as many models from Audi: The differential in front of the torque converter. The front axle is then moved forward - the benefits are a long wheelbase, short front overhang and a perfectly balanced weight distribution.

The AWD all-wheel drive system also contributes to the leading position in the new A8. Its central differential manages the mechanics of the normal car: 60 percent to the rear axle differential and 40 percent to the front - a sports property. Should slippage occur in a wheel, the differential sends most of torque to the axle with better traction.

Customers with a sporty driving style in particular can decide on the optional sport differential with continuously variable distribution of drive forces between the rear wheels. With the difference in the Audi A8 sport units as if the proverbial rails.

The driver of the difference of sport is connected with the Audi drive select the vehicle dynamics of the system. The driver can switch between three features of the system - the car, comfort and dynamics - at any time.

Chassis

The new Audi A8 is the sportiest saloon in the luxury class. The chassis combines uncompromising accuracy with great dynamism, superior stability and excellent comfort. Audi drive select is standard, with optional dynamic leadership. The large sedan impresses with his agility agile. The Audi A8 steers on corners spontaneously and voluntarily, driving through them almost neutral and find a strong grip on the road thanks to its output quattro permanent four-wheel drive.

The subframe for the engine and front axle form the backbone of the front suspension. The front axle is constructed from five control arms per wheel, forged aluminum parts provided under the unsprung weight and ultra-precise wheel guidance.

All versions of Audi A8 roll with the speed dependent Servotronic standard. The steering gear is placed low and well in the lead in the sub-frame, the steering impulse is fed directly to the wheels through the roll bars, with a very spontaneous response. With a gear ratio of 16.1 sporty and direct: 1 transmits an address distinct and accurate feedback from the road in any situation. His palette controlled, the type of pump operates with high efficiency.

The design of the rear axle tracks controlled trapezoidal link principle, which combines a compact design with superior driving qualities and comfort. The two trapezoidal links hollow casting, wheel carriers, indirect cross-links and stabilizer bars are made of aluminum. Audi engineers have been thoroughly revised suspension. The stanchions are supported directly by the carrier of the wheel, so that the dampers respond with even greater sensitivity.

Audi drive select provides fascinating variety of driving experience in the new A8 - very comfortable, soft curves of roller sports and exciting. It integrates the adaptive air suspension, engine, 8-speed Tiptronic and servotronic. With the MMI the driver can change the characteristics of these systems between comfort, automatic and dynamic modes. Moreover, the driver can make up a fourth mode of operation that corresponds to your personal ideal - the "individual" mode.

Always the right tune: adaptive air suspension

The adaptive air suspension combines air suspension with damping control. The struts are newly created, an expanded capacity allows air now a feature soft, even without an auxiliary battery. The bellows air sensitivity and auxiliary springs respond even to a slight drop in the road surface. The buffers operate with great flexibility - the control unit constantly analyzes the conditions and changes its operating mode milliseconds.

The adaptive air suspension is a versatile technology. Depending on the speed and manner specified by the Audi Drive Select, lower your body by up to 25 mm, to increase stability and reduce drag and improve fuel consumption. An operating mode is also available - the "lift" mode slightly increases the body.

Audi drive select also has other components in the store - the difference of sport and dynamic address, which varies the steering ratio by almost 100 percent. In the speed of vehicles down - during the maneuvers, for example - the system of government works very direct energy assistance is also high. As speed increases, the openness and energy assistance backspace continuously - on roads in the Audi A8 sliding on the asphalt with a stoic calm.

The dynamic steering system cooperates closely with ESP stabilization. If necessary, slightly counter steers limits in handling in curves - virtually unnoticed by the driver, reducing under steer and over steer in most situations.

The new Audi A8 has a powerful brake on board, which is consistently at maximum heat dissipation and low weight. The four discs are internally ventilated, in advance, stainless steel bolts connecting the friction ring caps aluminum brake. This concept in the sports car sector, new in the luxury class, saving up to 3.75 kg (8.27 lb) per wheel. The ESP stabilization system can be switched off and offers a sport mode.

Sizes range from 17-21 inches. The tires have been optimized with regard to comfort, aerodynamics and rolling resistance.

Security

The new A8 is one of the safest cars on the market. That protects its passengers with a body of high stability, the adaptive restraint systems and the new Audi felt before. It is available in standard and extended on three levels.

In the standard variant - Audi pre basic sense - the system analyzes the information from the sensors of ESP. When a brake application of the maximum signal or skid, it intervenes Control Unit. Depending on the situation, activate the emergency lights and closes the side windows and sunroof, but also tensions the front seat belts. Electric motors start this process, which is reversible - if the situation ends well, the straps are released again.

The levels of expansion of the system is called Audi sense against pre, pre, Audi and Audi makes more sense back felt before. They are integrated in care systems optional Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go function and Audi side assist.

In interaction with the ACC, Stop & Go, Audi front pre sense monitors the traffic in front of the new Audi A8, and supports the driver in multiple stages. The first is a warning signal and the second a fool is warning of a slowdown soon. If the driver now press the pedal, brake assist initiates braking system must respect the preceding vehicle.

Even an avoidance maneuver - often the best solution - it is still possible. If the driver remain inactive, the third phase follows - autonomous partial braking slows the Audi A8, a rate of 3 m/s2. Windows and sunroof are closed, the emergency lights are activated and belts tighten.

If the full version of the sense of Audi is on board before, fourth stage comes into play: the braking deceleration followed initial 5 m/s2 maximum braking. While a shock and can not be avoided in this case, the consequences are much improved, to the impact of the Audi A8 has been reduced speed of 40 km / h (24.85 mph).

The sense of pre Audi rear system mitigates the consequences of a rear impact. Here, too, closing the windows and sunroof and seat belt tension. If the Audi A8 has the optional front seats with memory on board, which move in a position to protect passengers as well.

The protection afforded excellent body ASF high stability in any type of accident. Within the adaptive restraint system call. Especially with people smaller and lighter that significantly reduces the severity of injuries intelligently managing the interaction between air bags front and limiting the belt tension. For lateral impact of the A8 has side air bags on the backs of the front seats and rear seats out. The two head airbags extend from the A-pillar to C-pillar.