FYI: The luxury sedan segment gets a significant boost with advanced performance and comfort, as seen in the new Audi S8.
Performance SUVs: A Brief History
The modern performance SUV owes its origins to the Mercedes-AMG ML55 of the late 1990s. However, it wasn’t until the last decade that these vehicles truly came into their own. Innovations in tire and active suspension technology refined these heavy-duty machines, making them genuinely sporty and not just utilitarian. This shift in focus has somewhat overshadowed their sedan counterparts, leading to a robust market but also sidelining the traditional fast sedans.
The Silent Evolution of the Performance Sedan
While performance SUVs have grabbed the headlines, full-size performance sedans have quietly but significantly evolved. These sedans have gained versatility and athleticism, transforming into fast executive cars with world-class rides. Take the Audi S8, for example—a luxurious yet sporty sedan that stands out but doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves. Boasting a predictive air suspension, a powerful 563-horsepower twin-turbo V8, and a meticulously designed cabin, the S8 offers a balanced luxury experience.
Why the Predictive Air Suspension Matters
It’s rare for a car’s driving dynamics to depend heavily on one optional feature, but that’s precisely the case with the Audi S8. Priced from $121,696 (including a $1,095 destination fee), this model leans into luxury with crucial tech like the $6,000 Predictive Air Suspension. This system uses a forward-facing camera and electric motors to adjust each wheel’s suspension in real-time. Such precision minimizes road imperfections and enhances comfort, creating a serene driving experience.
The suspension system’s real magic is felt at higher speeds when it scans for curves and adjusts the car’s stance to boost stability. In its sportier drive modes, the system minimizes brake dive and rear-end squat, maintaining a plush ride without being overly sporty.
Enhanced Accessibility Features
One novel feature is the system’s ability to raise the S8 by two inches when any door is opened, making it easier to get in and out, especially for those with limited mobility. This feature not only bridges the gap between sedans and SUVs but also does so in an intuitively elegant manner.
Under the Hood: V8 Power in a Soundproof Cabin
Starting the S8 brings its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 to life, but don’t expect a roar. The engine produces a low, burbly note, thanks to a hushed exhaust system paired with excellent cabin insulation. Even with 563 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque on tap, the engine’s presence is subdued, emphasized by an incredibly smooth eight-speed automatic transmission.
The S8 accelerates to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds and can reach a top speed of 155 mph, all while maintaining its luxurious composure. The engine’s power is ever-present but doesn’t overshadow the ride comfort.
A Balanced Driving Experience
While the V8 can deliver exhilarating speed, the overall driving experience is refined. The steering is ultra-light, making it easy to maneuver but detached enough to suit a full-size luxury sedan. The brakes, although strong enough to handle the car’s weight, are easy to modulate, offering a controlled stopping power.
Interior: Luxurious and Functional
Inside the S8, you’ll find large, comfortable seats with diamond-stitch upholstery in Cognac Brown, beautifully complementing its exterior. The cabin is adorned with carbon-fiber accents and suede inserts, adding to the luxury feel. A key feature is the car’s dual central screens, which manage everything from the infotainment system to climate control, streamlining the user interface while enhancing the cabin’s sleek aesthetics.
Tech-Savvy Comfort
The Audi S8’s interior doesn’t just look good; it’s packed with tech features, including a configurable digital instrument cluster and a dual-screen central control system. These screens provide a modern and clean look, even if they sacrifice the ease-of-use that physical buttons might offer.
Conclusion: A New Standard in Luxury Sedans
Whether you’re considering its sophisticated interior, advanced engine calibration, or high-tech suspension, the Audi S8 is a masterclass in luxury and performance. It delivers rapid, straight-line acceleration without compromising comfort. The S8’s cabin maintains a serene atmosphere, making it a compelling choice in the luxury sedan market.
While the trend points towards the growing popularity of performance SUVs, advancements like those embodied in the Audi S8 ensure that luxury sedans remain a formidable option. The S8 proves that you can have a plush, comfortable ride with a powerful engine that only reveals its might when you need it most.
For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or on Twitter @automotivefyi.
Steven Hale, Editor of Automotive.fyi
