Audi says this is the newly facelifted A8 luxury saloon, though having pored over the pictures for a while we're still struggling to spot the changes.That's no bad thing, however; the A8 has always had an understated elegance. And the really good news is that Audi says the A8 is now better to drive.The steering is now more direct, and the air suspension has been tweaked for a more comfortable ride. Lane-departure and blind-spot warning systems are now optional, and there's also improved sound insulation for a quieter cabin. We'll have to wait until later this year to try it.The other crucial change to the A8 is the introduction of the new 2.8-litre V6 petrol engine. Introduced to the A6 earlier in 2007, this frugal direct-injection FSI unit makes the A8 the lowest-emission luxury car on the market, producing just 199g/km of CO2. Even the new hybrid Lexus LS600h can only manage 219g/km.The A8 2.8 manages to be so frugal through a combination of an advanced engine, low weight and a continuously variable gearbox. Thanks to aluminium construction, it weighs just 1690kg. This also helps performance; the 210bhp, 207lb ft 2.8 FSI hitting 62mph in 8.0sec and topping out at 148mph. Fuel consumption is an average of 34mpg.
Add your comment