Audi S8

Audi S8 is the high-performance version of the Audi A8 luxury sedan, produced from 1996 and built at Neckarsulm with quattro all-wheel drive as standard. It combines flagship comfort with stronger engines, sportier suspension tuning and more discreet styling than many AMG or M rivals. 

The post-2000 D2 S8 used a 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 with up to about 360 horsepower, aluminium body construction and a focus on high-speed stability. The D3 generation, sold from 2006 to 2010, replaced it with a 5.2-liter V10 FSI producing around 450 horsepower, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It was one of the most unusual S8 models, valued for its smooth and characterful engine.

The D4 generation arrived in 2012 with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing about 520 horsepower, later joined by the S8 Plus with around 605 horsepower. This generation added cylinder deactivation, an 8-speed automatic gearbox and far stronger straight-line performance. The D5 S8, launched in 2019, retained a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 but added 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, predictive active suspension, dynamic all-wheel steering and a sport differential. Output is about 571 horsepower and 800 Nm.

In user reviews, the Audi S8 is often described as a luxury sedan with a hidden temper. Owners like its effortless acceleration, quiet cabin, quattro traction and ability to feel relaxed until pushed hard. The V10 and V8 engines are admired for character and pace. Criticism usually concerns high maintenance costs, complex suspension and electronics, heavy fuel use and the car’s size in city driving.