There are now only two flavors on the menu.
With a brand-new Mercedes S-Class out this year and an all-electric EQS Sedan shaking up the segment, it's easy to forget the understated flagship sedans from Ingolstadt, the 2022 Audi A8 and 2022 Audi S8. Audi recently facelifted its largest sedan models, which originally debuted back in 2017. We've known what the facelifted A8 and S8 would look like since last November, but Audi has finally provided more details about the US-spec models.
The A8/S8 lineup is simplified for the 2022 model year. You can now buy just two versions of the car – the A8 L 55 TFSI with a 335-horsepower 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, or the S8 with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 563 hp. These outputs are the same as last year's model and torque remains the same at 396 and 590 lb-ft, respectively. The V8 and plug-in hybrid A8s are no longer offered.
Both cars receive the same subtle exterior styling tweaks as their European-spec counterparts, including a wider single-frame grille and rear diffuser insert, while the S8 is differentiated with quad exhaust tips. Like we said, subtle. An optional Black Optic Plus Package is available for both models, adding black mirrors, badges, rings, and 21-inch wheels.
Inside, the A8 and S8 look identical to last year's models. The cabins use Valetta and Valcona leather with a new microfiber Dynamica material first used on the e-tron GT. Sitting as the flagship models in Audi's lineup, the A8 and S8 ooze luxury, with ventilated massage seats up front. On the S8, customers can opt for a special four-seat rear comfort package (pictured below) with fold out wing tables and an integrated digital remote. The ultra-luxurious A8 Horch isn't offered in the US market, but both the A8 and S8 are based on the long-wheelbase A8 L.
Just like last year's models, the A8 and S8 get a 10.1-inch upper and 8.6-inch lower touchscreen to control the infotainment and climate controls. Audi's MIB 3 infotainment system has some cool features like LTE mobile Wi-Fi, available Traffic Light Information, and an Integrated Toll Module, but the S-Class offers more jaw-dropping technology. We doubt Audi's minimal updates will draw too many buyers away from Mercedes, which handily outsells the competition in this segment.
Pricing for the A8 starts at $86,500, while the S8 costs $116,900 (excluding a $1,095 destination charge). The A8 is the same price as last year's model, while the 2022 S8 is a whopping $14,000 cheaper. The refreshed 2022 Audi A8 and S8 should arrive in dealerships soon.
Keyword: 2022 Audi A8 And S8 Cost Less With Fewer Complications