The new Audi A8 has been spied undergoing the final stages of development at the Nurburgring, ahead of its launch at the end of November.
The new executive saloon has previously been spied at the ‘Ring, as well as on public roads, and these clear shots show the A8 in a light disguise and near production-ready specification.
See the hi-res Audi A8 spy pics
The S-class and BMW 7-series rival will use a weight-saving aluminium spaceframe and be around 10cm longer than the current model.
It is also expected to get a cleaner and more efficient range of engines. Recent reports suggest it may be offered with a 197bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine, with around 295lb ft of torque.
Other planned units include 3.0-litre and 4.2-litre V8s. The V10 currently in the S8 will be driopped in favour of a 402bhp V8.
Front and four-wheel-drive versions are likely to be offered, although around 90 per cent of sales will be for all-wheel-drive variants.
Technology upgrades are expected to include an updated MMI control system, night vision technology and road sign recognition abilities.
The new Audi A8 is expected to go on sale in the UK in early 2010.
Pictures: Carparazzi
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Re: Lighter, cleaner Audi A8 spied
Just look at the figures: Audi A8 3.0 TDI, 1845 kg (with 90% tank full), 233 BHP, 7.8 sec from 0-60, 224 g/km. BMW 730d, 1940 kg (90% tank, 68 kg for the driver and 7 kg of luggage), 245 bhp, 7.2 sec from 0-60, 178 g/km. Looks pretty inferior to me.
Re: Lighter, cleaner Audi A8 spied
Finally, Audis' 200bhp 2.0 Twin-Turbo diesel arrives!
Re: Lighter, cleaner Audi A8 spied
fuzzy old bean - you simply cannot have been in any of the car's competitors. The primary and secondary ride, body control and bump absorption in the A8 are nowhere near the S-Class, 7-Series, LS or any big Jag from the last 30 years. I would argue the car is not in the same league of smoothness/tranquility as a new Superb or even a VW bloody Golf. Autocar's summary of the A8 was that it was "not comfortable enough" - a summary which also applies to every Audi currently on sale - and while it's possible your car is an exception I somehow doubt it.
I'd still have an S8 though :)