2027 Audi S8MotorTrend - MotorTrendVery luxuriousRapid accelerationExcellent handlingAging technologyDoesn't look very sportyLight on standard featuresFor those who find the A8 too relaxing, Audi offers the S8. This high-performance large sedan maintains the base car's luxuries, while upgrading the powertrain and chassis for quicker acceleration and a sharper feel.Sporty luxury rivals to the Audi S8 include the Porsche Panamera, Lucid Air, and BMW i7.What's NewLike the A8, the S8 received an extensive update for 2022. It hasn't changed much since then. For 2027, it gains a new wheel option within the Black Optic package.What We ThinkThe Audi A8 is lovely and luxurious but rather dull. Although it's very relaxing, driver enjoyment isn't really part of the equation. The S8 changes that completely.AdvertisementAdvertisementWhat makes the S8 compelling is that its appeal goes beyond the power of its twin-turbocharged V-8. Its chassis feels remarkably tidy for such a large sedan. All-wheel steering and a well-sorted all-wheel-drive system help it shrink around the driver.The brakes are another highlight, delivering strong stopping power with smooth responses that still suit a flagship luxury car. The main dynamic letdown is the steering, which feels too light and vague for something this capable.Even with such sporty performance, the S8 gives up little comfort. Its cabin is spacious, richly finished, and built to an exceptional standard. Standard air suspension already provides a composed ride, but the optional predictive setup takes things further, reading the road ahead and smoothing out imperfections with uncanny effectiveness.Some buyers may want a super sedan with flashier styling or more character. Rivals offer better tech and autonomous driving features. But for those drawn to understated speed, the S8 is one of the best sleeper sedans available.Top-Ranked Competitors:Porsche Panamera GTSLucid Air Grand TouringBMW i7 M70Mercedes-AMG S63What Engine Is in the Audi S8?The Audi S8 uses a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 that produces 563 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. It's connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission, with standard sport-tuned Quattro AWD. This engine is the same one used in different high-performance products across the Volkswagen group, such as the Lamborghini Urus and Porsche Panamera GTS.How Quick Is the Audi S8?In MotorTrend testing, the Audi S8 launched from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. The car crossed the quarter-mile line in 12.2 seconds at 113.0 mph. It stops well, too, decelerating from 60 to 0 mph in only 105 feet.Is the Audi S8 Comfortable?Even with its sport-tuned air suspension, the Audi S8 is comfortable enough for daily driving. Sharing its long-wheelbase body with the standard A8, there's abundant passenger space inside.Audi S8 Technology FeaturesInfotainmentThe S8 has a 12.3-inch digital gauge display. Its infotainment system combines a 10.1-inch primary touchscreen and an 8.6-inch supplemental touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Both rows of seats have USB ports, and there's a wireless charging pad up front. A 360-degree camera is standard.Sound SystemAbove the standard 17-speaker audio system, a 23-speaker Bang & Olufsen setup is available.Available UpgradesThe S8 can be upgraded with a head-up display, night vision camera, enhanced interior LED lighting, and remote parking assistance system. The optional predictive suspension system uses front-facing cameras to read the road ahead and cue the chassis to absorb impacts accordingly.How Much Is the Audi S8?Pricing for the S8 begins at slightly more than $131,000. That's approximately $35,000 more than the regular A8. For that extra cost, it gains a V-8 engine, larger brakes, sport-tuned air suspension, all-wheel steering, and a quicker steering ratio. Otherwise, standard features and equipment are primarily shared with the standard A8.Is a New Audi S8 Coming?Considering how slowly the aging S8 sells, its continued presence in Audi's 2027 lineup is surprising. Its long-term outlook is unclear. At one point, a next-generation all-electric electric S8 might have been a plausible development.AdvertisementAdvertisementHowever, the presence of the E-Tron GT and tepid consumer sentiment toward EVs make that seem unlikely now. At the same time, large luxury sedans no longer command the market share they once did. Audi may instead let performance variants of the upcoming 2028 Q9 SUV assume the flagship role the S8 previously held.
+9 others
