Audi A8: prices and specifications
4 generations Country of origin: Germany
The Audi A8 is a flagship sedan that replaced the Audi V8 model, which was produced from 1988 to 1993 and had become outdated both morally and technically. The letter "A" in the name stands for the Audi brand, while the number "8" indicates its belonging to the F-class according to European classification.
Development of the V8's successor began in 1992. Engineers used a fully aluminum chassis (Audi Space Frame) in the design, making the A8 the first car in its segment with such a chassis. This significantly reduced the vehicle's weight and improved handling. The car was built on the global Volkswagen D2 platform.
The model debuted in 1994 at the Paris Motor Show. The Audi A8 was produced as a sedan in two variants — with standard and long wheelbase. In 1996, the "hot" version S8 appeared. A year later, a prototype of the two-door coupe A8 was shown at the Geneva Motor Show, but it did not go into production. The first generation was updated several times — in 1997, 2000, and 2001.
The second generation Audi A8 was released in 2002. It was also produced in two versions (standard and long wheelbase), but on the new Volkswagen D3 platform. The body became larger, making the spacious interior even more roomy. In 2005, the second generation Audi S8 was introduced. In 2007, the model underwent a planned facelift. Both variants received a new exterior design by Erwin Leo Himmel — with a vertical front grille, distinguishing them from the first generation.
The third generation Audi A8 was officially shown in 2009 in Miami (USA). The car was built on the Volkswagen MLB platform, retaining the aluminum Audi Space Frame chassis. In 2010, the "hot" and long wheelbase versions were introduced, and in 2012, the hybrid modification A8 Hybrid.
In Ukraine, the model is available in two versions: standard A8 and "hot" S8. The standard version is offered in two modifications — with standard and long wheelbase. All modifications are equipped with gasoline engines of 3.0, 4.2, and 6.3 liters, as well as diesel engines of 3.0 and 4.2 liters. They are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Drive — all-wheel drive.
