2004 Audi A8, epitome of innovation.

By Mark Perleberg
Contributing Auto Writer

For many years, Audi has taken a back seat to Mercedes Benz and BMW in the luxury car market. With the introduction of the A8 almost 10 years ago, Audi has taken a giant step forward, and now with the second generation A8, this may be the car that has propelled them ahead of the competition.

At first glance, the A8’s styling creates the illusion that the car is smaller than it actually is. The bodylines flow seamlessly into both an elegant and sporty shape. Through the use of aluminum, the A8 has 60% more rigidity in the ASF (Audi Space Frame) chassis reducing the weight of the engine as well.

Power comes from a 4.2 liter, five valve-per-cylinder, V8-engine that produces 330 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Audi already has plans to fit the W12 engine with an estimated production of about 450 horsepower with torque in the 440 range. Power is distributed to a six-speed tip-tronic transmission, which has become the standard for high-end luxury cars. The A8 is also equipped with the patented Quattro all-wheel-drive system that offers the drive handling characteristics not felt in a rear-wheel-drive car.

The Quattro system makes the A8 incredibly sure-footed while the Adaptive Air Suspension (AAS) offers predictable handling along with a smooth ride in any condition. The AAS system continually adjusts to dampen body roll for increased handling, and reduces pitch while starting and stopping for a continually level ride.

The MMI system or Multi Media Interface offers similar capabilities to the BMW 745 I-Drive. You can adjust the internal functions of the car from a center console-mounted dial. Only in the A8, the MMI is much easier to get acquainted with. In a very short time you’ll be adjusting the Bose Surround Sound from the glove box mounted CD changer while resetting the temperature of the cabin, all with a simple touch of a button and a turn of your wrist. The Bose Surround System electronically tunes out road noise that may alter the sound quality. There is also a heads up display between the speedometer and the tach that helps you avoid focusing too much attention on the display screen and not enough attention on the road.

With a base price of just under $70,000, the new A8 is a considerable bargain. In the upper-end luxury car segment, it’s the epitome of innovation.

For more information, visit Audi online or see your local Audi Dealer.

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