Text by Evgeny KONSTANTINOV
Photo Audi and Evgeny KONSTANTINOV
Thirteen centimeters - so much now separates the standard Audi A8 and long wheelbase flagship A8 Long, the first driving presentation of which took place in Munich on July 19.
The extra space in front of the rear seats transforms just a big sedan into an executive sedan. That is, in the car for the rear right passenger. In our country, the A8 is traditionally loved primarily in this capacity, especially in government agencies and large near-state corporations. The Long version in Russia surpasses the standard one by several times in sales.
Not for all
That's right - there shouldn't be many such cars?
The test drive began right at the Munich airport with the distribution of cars. The very flagship flagship - a luxury car in the maximum configuration with a new five-hundred-horsepower W12 engine with a volume of 6.3 liters - was not enough for everyone. You will say: everything is right - there should not be many such machines? So you are also German. You can't be so pragmatic about the tests! Of course, price, tax, insurance, maintenance, fuel consumption all add up to the exorbitant cost of owning a twelve-cylinder engine. There is no practical point in buying, but there is prestige and a magical “I want”.
| Engine
V6 Turbo Petrol / V6 Turbo Diesel / V8 Petrol / V8 Turbo Diesel / W12 Petrol Engine capacity(l) 3.0 / 3.0 / 4.2 / 4.2 / 6.3 Power(hp @ rpm) [email protected] / [email protected]/ [email protected]/ [email protected] 4000/ 500 @6200 Transmission automatic (tiptronic) 8 steps Drive unit full Overclocking up to a hundred (c) 6.2 / 6.2 / 5.8 / 5.6 / 4.7 Max Speed 250 km/h Fuel consumption(l/100 km combined) 9.3 / 6.6 / 9.7 / 7.8 / 12.4 Dimensions(length×width×height) 5267×1949×1471 mm |
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And yet, even in Russia, the W12 will be more exotic than a real leader. This is confirmed by the sales statistics of the previous generation: the previous six-liter W12s were bought about five times less often than the same cars with the 4.2-liter petrol G8, which created the bulk of the market. Moreover, both among A8 Long and among ordinary ones. Even the budget front-wheel drive version with a modest V6 3.2 was twice as popular. By the way, there will be no “non-driven” A8 Long in the new generation: all long-wheelbase vehicles are equipped with a Quattro transmission that constantly transmits torque to both axles.
The power of tradition
In our country, unlike Europe, it is still not prestigious to ride a “tractor”.
I asked for the 4.2-litre petrol car that is most in demand among us. It is these machines that will be the first to enter the Russian market in early December. Other options will be available later, tentatively after the new year. And what? FSI 4.2 was not found in the journalists' parking lot! Obviously, the fact is that other motors are much more relevant for Germany. I had to wait until the car was brought from the underground garage. And almost the entire open parking lot was occupied by diesel cars with V6 3.0 liter engines, which are practically not bought in Russia, and V8 4.2 liter, which are not bought in Russia at all. In our country, unlike Europe, it is still not prestigious to drive a “tractor”, although modern diesel engines are often much more interesting in terms of their technical characteristics than gasoline units. For example, the same TDI 4.2 in terms of torque is twice as much as the gasoline "eight" of the same volume, and in terms of acceleration dynamics "to hundreds" it turns out to be 0.2 s faster. But alas. It is difficult to argue with the strength of tradition, backed up by fears about Russian diesel fuel.
In addition to diesels, the parking lot was occupied by cars with a TFSI nameplate - with a new 3.0-liter turbocharged petrol V6 for the A8, inherited from the flagship from the A6. There, the Russian public received this 213-horsepower engine very favorably. How will he prove himself on the A8? On the technical side, I can assume that there will be no complaints. Its traction and dynamic characteristics are quite enough even for such a car as the A8 Long, especially since, thanks to the all-aluminum body, its curb weight was kept within two tons. The question is different - will six cylinders be enough to maintain the proper reputation of the person sitting in the back seat? However, along with a six-cylinder diesel engine, this option will be in demand for hotel transfers and other similar delivery tasks.
Miracles of complete sets
And now the silver A8L with the most popular engine in Russia has finally appeared on the site. We are distributing roles with the well-known radio journalist Georgy Khachaturov. Lead me first. I take a seat at the wheel. I lightly slam the door... And I slam it again in surprise, harder - the door did not close on the first attempt, and there is no electric door closer that is usual on cars of this class. By default, it is attached only to the W12 engine, and in all other versions it is an option.
In budget trim levels, a one-piece sofa with a folding armrest is installed at the back, accommodating climate control, music, seat adjustments, as well as pockets for small things and other useful things.
The features of standard configurations were generally surprising. For example, it suddenly turned out that in equipping with all sorts of status gizmos, our gasoline V8 is inferior to a diesel one! There are no rear-seat multimedia system monitors in the seatbacks, no folding desk, no folding passenger footrests, no system that folds the right front seat for the sake of the spaciousness of the boss sitting behind ... By the standards of the upper class, to which this car certainly belongs, it - "empty". And who, you ask, needs one? Of course, everything missing can be re-ordered. Buyers will do just that. That's just the logic of the distribution of options is not clear.
Elongation
If you don’t look back from the driver’s seat, it’s difficult to feel the difference between the long wheelbase and the standard. The driver's space in all new A8 is organized in the same way. Depending on the configuration, only finishing materials and colors differ. Controls, seats, front panel, console - everything is expected to be comfortable, expensive and stylish, but without liberties. The only frilly detail is the automatic transmission selector knob. But it is so successfully inscribed in the surrounding strict space that it becomes its visual center. Interior elements do not distract, and the design does not become boring over time.
Outside, by the way, you also can’t tell from all angles what kind of car is in front of you: the length of the base is uniquely determined only in profile - by the proportions of the body and the size of the back door. At the same time, the extra centimeters did not violate the design harmony. The elongated car turned out beautiful, which is not always the case. On the whole Audi remained true to itself: the strict classics of the A8 forms were repeated in a new look. The design of this model has already been actively discussed a couple of months ago, after the premiere of the standard version. Personally, I liked it, except that the LED headlights, which were beautiful in themselves, seemed to have fallen out of the general protocol style - something like a tie with parrots at a reception at the German Chancellor. Cheerfully so, revitalizes, but out of place.
The main external difference between A8Long and just A8 is the length of the rear doors. And the rising curtains on the rear windows not only cover passengers from prying eyes, but simply create comfort in the cabin.
Electronic mind
The main feature of the updated MMI is a touch panel that recognizes letters written on it with a finger.
While I indulged in thoughts about design, we raced along the autobahn. Zhora was downloading something from the Internet, connecting the laptop to the MMI on-board multimedia system, and I was driving, periodically glancing at the large screen that had come out of the “torpedo”. There, the navigation system "led" us on Google Earth satellite imagery, and I could survey the surroundings from above. The system warned about current speed limits and possible traffic jams. The bandwidth of the Internet channel was enough for both of us. It turned out to be insufficient only for communicating with the outside world via Skype. 
Several times there were rather long tunnels in which the Internet broadcast was interrupted. Navigation continued to work properly and even correctly guessed the exit from the tunnel if there were forks in it. While there is a connection, MMI loads a fairly large piece of the map of the surrounding earth's surface, which is usually enough to travel underground. The system receives the speed of movement in the absence of visible satellites from the speedometer sensor, it recognizes turns by the difference in the angular speed of the front wheels through the ESP. It remains only to calculate ... Will the system work where there is no Internet coverage at all? Will. But without satellite imagery, according to the usual vector map stored in memory. The main thing is that the GPS satellites send signals regularly.
The main feature of the updated MMI is a touch panel that recognizes letters written on it with a finger. Moreover, she understands not only the Latin script, but also the Cyrillic alphabet. You can not be distracted by the buttons, setting the destination to the navigator. It was then that I realized why the automatic transmission selector has such an unconventional shape. This is a wrist rest to write comfortably! It's really comfortable to write. And the rest of the multimedia interface at first glance seems clear and friendly. But still, the electronic system, on which literally all the user settings of the car are tied, including the sound of music, the distribution of “weather” in the cabin, the stiffness of the suspension and the sharpness of the steering, distracts attention quite well on the go.
Driving Arsenal
Why haven't I written about the behavior of the car on the road yet? And what to write about him - everything is in order with him. It would be strange if an all-wheel drive executive sedan with a more than three-meter base on the ideal pavement of German highways would cause a desire to describe in detail the handling features. As you would expect in this case, directional and trajectory stability is at a height, the suspension works out the road clearly and, in general, the car is exceptionally obedient.
The on-board system allows you to change the car settings on the go: air suspension stiffness, gearbox operation mode and steering wheel force. Choosing the optimal settings, I turned on the mode dynamic, as a result of which the car made it clear that it is a car for the driver, no matter what the person sitting behind on the right thinks. However, from his reaction, or rather, its absence, I realized that he did not notice the changes. Although for me it was clear: the car has become more collected, sharp and resilient. The suspension has become more informative, the progressive effort on the steering wheel has especially increased. Perhaps even redundant: driving at a speed well over 60 on a steep loop of the road junction, the steering wheel had to be literally squeezed by its own weight.
A car for the driver, no matter what the person sitting behind on the right thinks.
Among the driver's arsenal, perhaps the most ambiguous impression was made by adaptive cruise control, leading the A8L after another car - up to a stop and a new start. On the one hand, it is convenient in heavy traffic. But on the other hand, who knows what is the level of the driver in the front car? And the driver Audi you always have to take the boss smoothly. And certainly - completely regardless of the driving style of the one who rides in front. With only one exception - while moving in a cortege.
The main thing
To the max
Salon Audi A8 Long in the maximum configuration. Due to the fact that instead of the rear sofa there are two independent chairs with a multifunctional armrest between them, the car in this form becomes a four-seater. In terms of the abundance of adjustments, the rear passenger seats are practically not inferior to the driver's. And in some ways they even surpass it: the driver cannot free up additional legroom for himself by moving everything in front of him even further forward and lowering the special stand. The rear monitors of the multimedia system are noticeably larger than the front ones, while passengers can watch videos or follow the route as they wish.
After lunch, we changed - I took a place in the commander's chair. The designers managed to visually create here a living space separate from the front row, in which one can pleasantly exist even on a very long trip. I had to look for seat adjustments: the obvious key located on the door simply lays out the chair in a kind of half-sleeping place. But something in the mutual arrangement of the back and pillow was not right. Especially during the initial vertical landing.
The central part of the sofa back folded forward became a wide armrest that divided the rear space - and in it, along with the climate control, the missing separate adjustments were found. The ride has become quite comfortable. True, at the bus stop, after I opened the door and got out, the chair automatically returned to its original position and I had to adjust it again.
Soon I myself understood why my passenger did not react at all to changes in the car's suspension settings. The chair's own supports very effectively dampen vibrations and shocks that still reach the body. Unlike the driver, the passenger is almost completely devoid of tactile connection with the roadway. At the same time, the mutual addition of the damping effects of the suspension and the chair does not at all lead to a mismatch of the rider's vestibular apparatus.
In search of new features of the car and its systems, I got to the massage function, which is equipped with all four seats. Note that for the first time in the entire class, this function became available for a pilot with a navigator only here. In this case, all modes for all four are the same.
After returning the car, I thought about the market prospects of the new A8L in our country. The flagship that has not been updated for a long time Audi quite strongly lost its position against the background of fellow countrymen. Now, with the launch of a new generation, Audi will return these positions, and primarily due to the "seven" bmw. At first, the latter will have to make a lot of room: the market for executive sedans is limited and Audi With bmw share a niche. The main share of these cars falls on buyers who, according to their position, are already entitled to a personal car with a driver, but they have not yet made it to the first person. The first must ride Mercedes. Although Audi turned out to be a very decent car.
The long-wheelbase Audi A8 Long Executive Sedan sets new standards in comfort, efficiency and high technology. It is available for order in the showrooms of Russian dealers at a starting price of 3,800,000 rubles. The start of deliveries of the sedan to Russia was announced by representatives of the Audi concern at a press breakfast held on November 30.
The Art of Progress
“Russian customers are well versed in cars, highly appreciate comfort and modern technologies,” says Till Brauner, head of Audi Russia. - We are pleased to offer them the best: the new Audi A8 Long - the pinnacle of engineering and design art. This luxury executive sedan has all the qualities of the flagship Audi A8, offering passengers even more benefits in terms of comfort and high-tech equipment.
There is not an ounce of cunning in this so pretentious statement of the head of the Audi concern division: the car impresses with its elegance and perfection of forms both inside and out. In combination with the “stuffing”, the new all-wheel drive Audi A8 Long turns into a mobile VIP-salon - an island of calm and pleasure in a crazy world.
Spacious rear
Compared with the standard version of the flagship in the new sedan, the wheelbase has been increased by 13 centimeters. The resulting extra space is used to improve the comfort of rear seat passengers.
In order to satisfy the tastes of different categories of customers, Audi has developed an extended version for both customers with a personal driver and those who prefer to drive themselves.
The Audi A8 Long comes standard with a classic three-seater rear seat.AZ
Additional comfort and functionality of the sedan will help provide a number of attractive options.
Rear seats A8 Long
In the rear part of the cabin it is possible to install two comfortable separate seats (standard for W12). The equipment of separate seats includes three-level heating, electric adjustment of the departure and inclination of pillows, head restraints and pneumatic lumbar support. The function of remembering settings and additional folding compartments in the rear armrests of the doors are included in the list of standard equipment. Among the additional equipment - superior comfort headrests, the ability to move the front passenger seat forward and backward from the rear seat, a four-zone automatic climate control system.
Options available from Audi for split seats include ventilation and pneumomassage with two programs and three intensity levels. Another eye-catching option is the solid center console, which forms an elegant wave that flows smoothly into the center tunnel. Leather and fine wood veneer give the console a great look.
The seat adjustment switches are located on the sides of the console; a wide, comfortable armrest is installed on top. Inside the console there is a roomy compartment, in which, on request, a car phone and a 230-volt socket can be installed. An additional compartment in the rear wall of the cabin is hidden behind the panels trimmed with wood. At the front of the console is the control unit for the separate air conditioner for the rear seats. Audi offers a range of extras, including folding tables and a mini-fridge that can hold two 1-litre bottles and is illuminated by two LEDs.
The top option for the Audi A8 Long is a rear seat on the passenger side, providing a level of comfort comparable to business class on an airplane. The passenger can put their feet on the electrically adjustable footrest installed in the lower part of the backrest of the front passenger seat, and use the remote control to turn on the back massage performed by ten air chambers in four programs, each with five levels of intensity and speed. Programs are responsible for different types of massage - some offer a massage of the entire back, others are designed to relax the shoulder area.
In addition to the standard equipment provided for the single seat version, when ordering a lounge chair, an extended center console, a ventilation system and an infotainment system for the rear are also installed. Soft lighting adds to the pleasant atmosphere.
The left rear seat is also equipped with a massage function with two programs and three intensity levels. The Comfort Entry/Exit function automatically pushes both rear seats to the rearmost position when the corresponding door is opened.
Symphony of light
The elegant exterior design continues in the interior of the Audi A8 Long. The interior is noticeably wider and more spacious than the previous model. The main distinguishing feature of the interior is the “border”, a wide arc that covers the entire cabin and gives it a resemblance to a yacht. This detail complements and emphasizes the expressive, neat contours of the interior space.
Another feature of the Audi A8 Long that only shows up in the dark is the interior lighting, which uses white LEDs and is controlled by sophisticated electronics. The lighting turns on when the sedan's lock is remotely opened and spreads throughout the cabin in a wave coming from the driver's seat. The driver can choose a specific lighting effect - muted, cold or warm, plastic or focused. The light paths on the headlining and between the safety handles also create a special effect.
Optional ambient lighting Ambient lighting is a true symphony of light that combines added functionality with artistic merit (included with solid center console and standard with W12). LEDs, fiber optics and light paths illuminate a number of additional areas of the cabin. This creates the impression that the central panel is floating in the air. Many of the LEDs are bi- and tri-color; the driver can select a color scheme (ivory, polar, ruby/polar light) using a multimedia interface and adjust the brightness in four zones. Additionally, Audi installs reading lights and an accessory mirror at the rear (standard on the W12 and when ordering the panoramic roof).
Comfort front
The anatomically shaped front seats of the Audi A8 Long perfectly embrace and support the body, while the sloping upper back section provides very comfortable shoulder support. Standard seats are adjustable in 12 directions - in length, height and inclination of the pillow, backrest inclination; The lumbar support has two adjustments. Audi also offers optional seat heating and a memory function, complete with electrically adjustable headrests and belt height.
Comfort seats with 22-way adjustment allow you to immerse yourself in luxury even deeper. Here you can also adjust the slope of the upper back, the depth of the seat cushion, the slope and height of the superior head restraints, the width of the side ledges-supports. The last function and adjustment of the lumbar support in four directions is pneumatic; The package also includes a function to remember the settings.
In addition to heating, a high-performance three-stage ventilation system with four small exhaust fans and a five-program pneumomassage function can be ordered for the luxury seats. The deluxe seats are also available with a diamond pattern for a sportier look.
The number of seat adjustment switches has been significantly reduced in the car. All basic settings are still made using switches that match the shape of the seat. A four-button rotating ring multi-function switch is used to control auxiliary functions such as side supports and massage; each changeover is clearly shown on the MMI display.
Sufficient storage space for various accessories is another attribute of a luxury car. The Audi A8 Long has a compartment under the front of the center armrest that can accommodate a cell phone, car phone or iPod.
Control devices: a clear concept
The control principles used in the Audi A8 Long are traditional Audi - they are simple and intuitive.
The design of the multifunctional information system has undergone changes. The display size has been increased to 7 inches diagonally, which allows you to display all the functions of an intuitive menu with one main field and two additional separate zones. On vehicles with a 3.0 TDI engine, the information system includes an efficiency program that advises the driver on how to drive economically. Another function allows you to get information about the currently operating energy consumers (for example, air conditioning) and their impact on fuel consumption.
The information system is also controlled by the latest version of the multifunctional steering wheel, which is available in two versions - with three or four spokes. The steering column is electrically adjustable and a heated rim can be ordered as an option. Starting and stopping the engine is carried out using a separate button located on the center tunnel console next to the electromechanical parking brake lock.
The front section of the console is visually separated from the dashboard. Wide and slightly sloping, it is the ideal control panel for the deluxe automatic climate control system. Silent and virtually draught-free, the system provides ventilation through a grill at the top of the dashboard. Air conditioning is carried out in three modes, the fourth mode is provided for the winter season.
Audi also offers an optional four-zone automatic climate control system (comes with the W12 and also with the solid center console order). It includes a separate air conditioner for the rear and a control system with 25 servomotors.
Touchable relief: MMI terminal
Under the climate control keys is the terminal of the new multimedia system with an MMI interface, divided into three relief zones. On the right side are the acoustic controls, in the central zone - a large rotary switch, as well as buttons and touch keys for navigating the menu. On the left side, six radio station selection buttons or the MMI touch of the optional MMI Plus system with navigation system (standard with W12) can be located. The functions are very easy to control: while the driver's wrist rests on the 8-speed tiptronic shift lever, his hand remains free to press and turn the switches.
When the MMI multimedia interface system is switched off, the monitor retracts into the instrument panel, leaving only the top edge visible, forming an elegant decorative element. When turned on, the monitor slides up elegantly. The display has a diagonal size of 8 inches and a completely flat surface. Similar to the information system display, the screen is divided into three zones to display an advanced, intuitive menu.
All menu sections and illustrations from audio CDs are displayed using elegant 3D graphics.
Optics
The basic equipment includes xenon plus bi-xenon headlights. They can be supplemented with an optional adaptive headlight system with constant light range control. Installed in front of the rearview mirror, the camera detects other vehicles by their lights. The computer smoothly adapts the range of illumination, always providing the best possible view.
New all-weather headlights are standard on the Audi A8 L. They are integrated into the main headlights and replace the fog lights, whose traditional place in the air intakes is now reserved for the radar sensors of the optional stop & go cruise control system.
The headlight control unit works closely with the optional MMI navigation plus (standard on the W12). The navigation system receives route data in advance and transfers them to the computer responsible for the optics - for example, to switch on the desired mode even when entering the highway. In countries with left-hand traffic, the corresponding optics mode is automatically switched on.
The latest development in the new Audi A8 Long is the optional LED headlights (standard on the W12), with LEDs used for all optical functions - another Audi innovation. Thanks to ultra-modern optics, this large sedan is easily recognizable from afar. With a color temperature of 5,500 Kelvin, these headlights are identical to daylight and therefore much less irritating to the eyes. With 76 LEDs each and no moving parts, these headlights are designed to last the life of the vehicle. Complements the positive characteristics of headlights low energy consumption. With low beam, only 40 watts are required per headlight.
The standard taillights are almost entirely based on LED technology; each uses 72 LEDs.
The rear lights form a trapezoidal contour that appears as a uniform strip due to the direction of the light and the surface relief. The stop signal is inside the trapezoid. When the new Audi A8 Long decelerates hard, the brake light flashes at a high frequency, and if the sedan comes to a stop after a hard deceleration, the hazard warning lights come on.
Highly organized system: adaptive cruise control with stop & go function
Probably the most sophisticated and highly organized assistance system in the Audi A8 Long is Audi's stop & go adaptive cruise control, a radar-based piece of equipment that automatically regulates speed.
The system has been significantly improved compared to the previous version. It regulates the speed and distance to the vehicle in front, accelerating and decelerating the vehicle from 0 to 250 km/h and automatically braking under certain conditions.
The system is especially useful when driving in intermittent traffic, slowing down the sedan without driver intervention. If the stop is short, the machine automatically resumes movement; after a long stop, the driver needs to lightly press the gas pedal or the cruise control lever. This can also be done after the Audi A8 Long has stopped: for the next 15 seconds, the car will be ready to move again and will follow the car in front when it moves off.
The ACC stop & go system uses two radar sensors that are installed in the air intakes at the front of the machine and are automatically heated in cold weather. The sensors emit radio waves at a frequency of 76.5 GHz, covering a segment of 40 degrees and a distance of 250 meters. By receiving the reflected waves, the computer recognizes the cars ahead. The driver can set the time interval to the front car by choosing one of four options and one of three levels of dynamics. Deceleration is limited to four m/s².
The adaptive cruise control with stop & go function receives route advance information from the MMI navigation plus and works closely with other assistance systems in the Audi A8 Long. Receiving data from 27 control devices, it continuously analyzes the situation around the car and processes the results at an extremely high speed. A large amount of information allows the system to calculate complex scenarios and provide the driver with the necessary support in advance.
The integrated functions of the ACC stop & go system are useful in many situations. When driving around a car turning right off the highway, or another vehicle moving into the lane occupied by the Audi A8 Long on the highway, the system will handle the situation precisely and without fuss, making the movement smoother and more harmonious.
Lane change assistant: Audi side assist
Audi side assist is activated at a speed of 30 km/h. Two rear 24 GHz radar sensors monitor the situation behind and to the sides of the sedan at a distance of 70 meters. Their data is analyzed by a computer. If another vehicle appears in a critical area - an area invisible to the driver or when quickly approaching from behind - the so-called information signal is activated. In the side mirror housing, a yellow LED indicator lights up, which can only be seen by looking directly into the mirror.
If the driver turns on the turn signal to change lane despite the warning, the indicator becomes brighter and flashes at a high frequency. This warning signal is hard to ignore. The indicator light is specially made in such a way that it is visible only to the driver. Its brightness adapts to outdoor lighting conditions and is controlled using the MMI multimedia interface.
Lane Keeping Assist: Audi lane assist
At speeds above 65 km/h, Audi lane assist warns when the vehicle may unintentionally veer out of its lane. The camera installed in front of the rear-view mirror scans the track within 60 meters and in a 40-degree segment. The camera transmits 25 high resolution images per second. The image is processed by software that recognizes road markings and keeps the Audi A8 Long in its lane.
If the driver allows the vehicle to deviate towards the lane without activating the turn signal, Audi lane assist will warn by vibrating the steering wheel. Vibration intensity and when the warning is activated can be selected from three options. The Audi lane assist system is much more efficient than before. So, a color camera distinguishes between yellow and white markings.
The camera of the Audi lane assist system also performs a number of other functions. It receives data for the stop & go adaptive cruise control system, the information is also used to control speed in slow moving traffic. The camera plays an important role in the activation of emergency braking by the proactive assistance system Audi pre sense front and in the continuous monitoring of the range of the headlights.
Night vision system
Another innovation used in the Audi A8 Long is the night vision assistant, which recognizes pedestrians at night. The heart of the system is a thermal imaging camera installed in the radiator grille. The camera has a wide viewing angle (24 degrees), its protective glass is cleaned and heated when necessary. Using Far Infrared Radiation (FIR), the camera responds to the heat generated by objects. The computer converts the camera signals into a black and white image and displays it on the display of the information system.
Far infrared technology has significant advantages over competing systems. Regardless of the speed of movement, visibility up to 300 meters is provided, which is much more than the distance covered by high beam headlights. Due to this, the light from oncoming cars and other sources does not affect the perception of objects. The system automatically focuses on the most important objects - animals and people. Their bright figures are clearly visible in the image due to the heat generated, contrasting with the dark background of the roadway, which has a lower temperature.
The image processing program is able to recognize people at a distance of up to 100 meters. They are indicated in yellow on the display. If the control unit detects a threat, for example, in connection with a person on the road at a dangerous distance from the car, the person will be marked in red on the display, and an audible signal will turn on at the same time. Like all assistive systems, the night vision assistant operates with certain system limitations.
Safety
The Audi A8 Long features new, intelligent occupant protection: a high-strength body, adaptive passive safety systems, the new Audi pre sense proactive safety system (in addition to the standard version, three advanced levels are also available).
In the standard version (Audi pre sense basic), the system uses data from the ESP stability program. In the event of a critical situation, such as skidding or emergency braking, a control unit is connected to the process. Depending on the situation, it turns on the emergency warning lights and closes the side windows and sunroof, fully or partially tightens the front seat belts. This process is carried out by small electric motors and is reversible - if the incident can be avoided, the tension of the belts is again loosened.
The new safety system is available in several versions, two of which - Audi pre sense front and Audi pre sense rear - are closely linked with optional assistance systems - adaptive cruise control with stop & go and Audi side assist, which significantly expand their capabilities.
Audi pre sense front protects against rear-end collisions with the vehicle in front and is activated in three stages. If the sedan overtakes a vehicle traveling at a slower speed, a warning horn sounds and a red indicator lights up in the information system display. At the same time, the brake system is filled, pneumatic shock absorbers and suspension dampers are switched to hard mode. The driver is given a warning to brake in time or avoid a collision, which is often more effective.
If the driver does not take any action, the second stage of the system is triggered - an emergency warning - a warning push produced as a result of a sharp short-term rise in pressure in the brake system. At the same time, the tension of the seat belts is slightly increased. When you press the pedal, the brake force is adjusted according to the speed of the vehicle in front. The fact that the braking system is already full saves between 0.1 and 0.2 seconds, which corresponds to a distance of more than seven meters at a speed of 130 km/h.
If the driver does not react to the warning push, the third stage is activated - partial braking, at the beginning of which the Audi A8 Long decelerates by 3 m/s2. Windows and hatches are closed, emergency warning lights are switched on.
In sedans equipped with the full version of the Audi pre sense plus proactive safety system, which is part of the driver assistance package, the fourth stage of the system is activated if necessary. The braking intensity is increased to 5 m/s² and the seat belts are fully tensioned. This is followed by the final phase - maximum emergency braking, which begins half a second before the impact. At this point, there is no time to avoid the collision. The force of the impact and its consequences are significantly reduced by reducing the speed of the Audi A8 Long by 40 km/h.
Audi pre sense rear reduces the impact of a rear-ended vehicle. She closes the windows and sunroof and tightens her seat belts. If the Audi A8 Long is equipped with memory seats, the upper part of the front seat backrests (and the optional single seats in the rear) as well as the front head restraints are moved to a position that reduces the risk of spinal injury. The optional side bolsters on the front seats are filled with air.
The body of the new Audi A8 Long provides protection in any kind of collision. In a frontal collision, the impact energy is optimally distributed to the sides of the car body using four main paths: two absorption zones are located in the upper part of the wings and two more in the longitudinal elements of the engine subframe and front axle. The streamlined shape of the front of the car also helps to minimize the consequences of an accident for other participants in a collision.
The omega-shaped crossbar, made of double rectangular section, provides additional protection for the passenger compartment. Located at the level of the footwells, it diverts impact energy to the floor and the A-pillars. The longitudinal elements of the floor join under the arrow-shaped rear seat-sofa, forming, together with the central tunnel, the most reinforced unit of the body. Large beams at the rear of the car protect the passenger compartment. In the event of a collision, the rear wheels are pressed against the side members of the body frame.
The spacious cab of the sedan is equipped with an adaptive passive safety system. It is connected to the Audi pre sense network and reads information from eight pressure and acceleration sensors. The smart system coordinates the airbags and seat belt force limiters, providing superior protection for passengers of all sizes.
Sensors on the front seat rails detect the position of the seat. Based on the occupant's approximate location, the control device ensures a minimum level of movement of the occupant's upper body before the belt and airbag deploy. Audi reduces this distance by about ten centimeters thanks to the belt pretensioning function.
If a passenger - usually a shorter person - sits in close proximity to the airbag, after the airbag is deployed, some of the air is quickly expelled through special valves, providing a softer collision with the head and chest of the passenger. In the event of a strong collision, as well as a more distant position of large passengers, the valves open later. The belt force limiters are also adaptive. They adjust the degree of tension of the belt, providing a minimum load on the chest.
Another important element in the car's safety system is the design of the seats and head restraints, which protect against rear impact. These types of crashes often occur at traffic lights, with impact speeds of 15-50 km/h. The integrated Audi head restraint system reduces the risk of injury to the cervical spine.
Four airbags in the backs of the front seats and next to the rear seats will protect the occupants' chest and pelvis in the event of a side impact. Head airbags, located between the front and rear pillars of the car, open like curtains, covering the space from the ceiling to the threshold. All seats in the new Audi A8 Long are equipped with three-point automatic seat belts with force limiters. The rear seats are fitted with Isofix child seat mounts.
The new Audi A8 Long meets all pedestrian protection requirements. The foam layer between the front bumper and the crossbar reduces the impact force in the knee area. When you hit your head on the hood, there is a strong deformation of the aluminum panel, located at a considerable distance from the rigid elements of the engine.
Standard insured accidents - collisions in the parking lot - will not entail significant financial losses. Mounted in front of the crossbars at the front and rear of the vehicle, the aluminum crash boxes can be replaced relatively easily.
In a parking collision situation at low speed, the front and rear sensors remain intact, as they are cleverly integrated into the flexible bumper housings.
Equipment
The standard equipment of the model not only corresponds to the status of the car, but also attracts with richness and variety. All cars offered on the Russian market are equipped with:
8-speed tiptronic transmission with electronic control,
adaptive air suspension,
Quattro all-wheel drive system.
Driving dynamics management system Audi drive select.
Proactive safety system Audi pre sense.
Eleven color options are available for Audi's new flagship - two pure and nine metallic or pearl finishes: Ibis White, Brilliant Black, Glacier White, Ice Silver, Quartz Gray, Havanna Black, Phantom Black, Night Blue, Impala Beige, Emerald Black and Oolong Grey. The basic version of the Audi A8 Long W12 quattro is painted metallic. By special order of the buyer, painting in other exclusive colors is carried out.
By the beginning of sales, the following versions of the car are available for order:
Audi A8 Long TFSI (290 hp) from 3,800,000 rubles
Audi A8 Long TDI (250 hp) from 3,800,000 rubles
Audi A8 Long 4.2 FSI (372 hp) from 4,550,000 rubles.
In 2011, the production of the Audi A8 Long model will begin with a W12 engine producing 500 hp. However, the price of the top-end equipment with the most powerful motor is still unknown.
Full standard equipment of the Audi A8 Long:
8 speed tiptronic automatic transmission with dynamic program
Shifting gears, the ability to manually shift gears with paddle shifters and sport mode
Servotronic
ESP Stability Program (combines ABS, EBV, ASR, EDS)
Brake Assist
Audi pre sense basic safety system: Using various vehicle systems, it analyzes the traffic situation and, in the event of a risk of collision, takes preventive measures to protect passengers.
Pre-tensioning seat belts, activating hazard warning lights, closing side windows and sunroof (if ordered)
Airbags for the driver and front passenger with two-stage
activation system
Side airbags front and rear complete with head airbags
- "Active" headrests for the front seats
Audi Space Frame
Recovery system
Three-point automatic seat belts in front, with mechanical
height adjustment"
Seat Belt Usage Sensor for Front Seats
Cruise control
Audi drive select. The ability to change the characteristics of the suspension, steering response of the gas pedal and other systems (if ordered)."
Adaptive air suspension in combination with stepless electronic damping control with the possibility of changing the clearance (4 adjustment modes)"
Disc brakes front and rear
Electromechanical handbrake with hill start assist.
quattro® permanent all-wheel drive with asymmetric dynamic torque distribution
Alloy wheels 8Jx18, 7-arm design
Tires 235/55 R18
Tire pressure monitoring system with audible and visual warning of a flat tire/tires
Compact spare wheel
Security bolts
Climate control with air flow regulation system, humidity and air quality sensor, dust filter. Individual settings for the driver and front passenger. Three operating modes of the climate system: soft, medium, intensive.
Radio with DVD player integrated in MMI with SDHC card reader. Supports MP3-, WMA-, AAC-, MPEG-1-,-2-,-4-,WMV, Xvid formats. It is possible to copy video and music files to the built-in hard disk and then play them. You cannot copy protected files (DRM).
Audi Sound System: 6-channel amplifier, 10 speakers and rear subwoofer; total power 180 W
MMI - Multi Media Interface with 8"(inch) color display
Color on-board computer. TFT display 7"" (inches), with the ability to display the operating modes of security systems, active multimedia tools, as well as optionally ordered: navigation system, night vision system, adaptive cruise control, telephone.
Bi-functional xenon adaptive headlights with washer
- "Daylight
Light-emitting diode (LED) tail lights, brake lights, fog light, direction indicators
Audi parking system plus: Acoustic parking system front and rear with optical display on the MMI display
34. Front seats with electric adjustment for length, height, inclination of the seat and back, support of the lumbar spine "Ergomatic"; mechanical adjustment of head restraints and seat belt height
Heated front and rear seats, separately adjustable with three modes
Front comfort armrest, separate for driver and front passenger, with storage compartments and tilt adjustment.
Child seat anchor ISO FIX (2 brackets located on the outside of the rear seat for attaching child seats)
Seat upholstery in Valcona leather
Multifunctional leather steering wheel with shift function for tiptronic transmission; design - 4 spokes
Safety steering column with electric adjustment in length and height; with comfort entry/exit function.
Finishing the gearshift lever with leather.
Heat-insulating side and rear windows, windshield - with colored stripe
Electrically adjustable heated exterior mirrors, folding
Safe interior rear-view mirror with auto-dimming; light and rain sensor
Make-up mirrors in sun visors, illuminated for driver and front passenger
Sunblind for rear and side windows, electrically operated
Central locking for locking doors, trunk, gas cap; with remote control
Alarm with immobilizer
Trunk lid with servo closing and electr. door closer
Combination trim strips: walnut / black high-gloss
Aluminum trim of interior elements: edging of air vents, edging of MMI display, edge of handbrake control button.
Aluminum door sills
Dividing rear armrest with integrated drink holders
Smoker's pack
Floor mats front and rear
First aid kit and emergency triangle
Optional for 4.2TDI
quattro® permanent all-wheel drive with asymmetrical dynamic torque distribution and sporty rear differential
Optional for A8D4 Long
Hatch made of tinted safety glass, sliding / lifting, with electric drive; with infinitely adjustable sun protection, with convenient closing via central locking.
Adaptation for Russia
Additional engine and gearbox protection
Instruction manual and service book in Russian.
When preparing the text, materials and photographs of the Audi concern were used
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Review of the Audi A8 L 2018: model appearance, interior, specifications, security systems, prices and equipment. At the end of the article - a test drive of the 2018 Audi A8 L!
Review content:
In July 2017, as part of a special event, Audi presented a new generation of the flagship A8 sedan and its extended version of the A8 L, which received the D5 index. The world debut of new products took place at the Frankfurt Motor Show of the same year and, as automotive experts note, Audi managed to surpass its main competitors in the face of the S-class from Mercedes-Benz and the BMW 7-series in many respects.
Compared to its predecessor, the car received some appearance adjustments, an even better and more comfortable interior, as well as updated technical stuffing, among which the Mild Hybrid hybrid system and a completely new 8-speed tiptronic automatic transmission are especially worth highlighting.
Looking ahead a little, I would like to point out that Audi A8 L continues to hold its own, offering its customers the most advanced equipment, the most comfortable interior and excellent driving performance. But let's talk about everything in order.
The exterior of the new Audi A8 L 2018
Despite a number of cardinal changes in appearance, the car remains well recognizable and instantly identified even in dense city traffic.
Front part of the body made in the style of the conceptual Audi Prologue and pleases the eye with a huge hexagonal false radiator grille, completely new elegant head light optics and a neat front bumper with spectacularly designed fog lights.
It is worth mentioning right away that the Audi HD Matrix LED headlight optics are supplemented with laser modules, which, in comparison with traditional technologies, provides twice the best viewing range. And thanks to the camera systems built into the windshield, the car can automatically detect light sources in the oncoming lane, automatically excluding this area from the illumination zone.
Vehicle profile has undergone minor changes, among which are the presence of sharper edges, new, more stylish stampings along the side doors, as well as an updated design of alloy wheels. Despite the impressive dimensions, the Audi A8 L does not look heavy, but leaves the impression of a dynamic and well-balanced car.
Following the front part, it has changed significantly and sedan rear design, which received new Matrix OLED marker lights, which are based on organic light-emitting diodes, as well as a monumental rear bumper with original exhaust pipes.
The external dimensions of the new flagship Audi sedan are:
- Length- 5.302 m;
- Width- 1.945 m;
- Height- 1.473 m;
- wheelbase length- 3.128 m.
Unfortunately, the manufacturer does not announce the height of the ride height, but already in the base the car will be equipped with an air suspension, which can be equipped with active elements for an additional fee.
The choice of potential owners is offered a wide selection of body colors, as well as several variations in the design of rims. Moreover, buyers can order an individual body color, which allows you to give the car a truly unique and unrepeatable look.
Interior Audi A8 L 2018
The interior of the elongated Audi A8 has completely changed, having received a redesigned architecture of the front console, a different design of the digital instrument cluster and a completely new steering wheel design, with which it is possible to control music and other intelligent auto systems, of which there are more than enough in the car.
The central part of the dashboard is represented by a pair of touch displays (diagonal 8.6 and 10.1 inches), but there are only a few mechanical buttons and knobs in cars - the Start / Stop button, the activation button for the automatic parking attendant and the electromechanical parking brake.
The upper display controls multimedia and information systems, and the lower one controls the microclimate, seat heating, security systems and glass heating.
The quality of materials and assembly is at the reference level, however, this is not surprising, given the class and cost of the car.
Following the front torpedo, updated and front seats, characterized by a comfortable fit, excellent lateral support, the widest range of electrical adjustments and additional functions (heating, ventilation, massage).
Second row seats can be represented by a comfortable sofa or a pair of free-standing chairs, separated by a massive central tunnel, on which the manufacturer has brought a separate climate control unit, a comfortable armrest and a small touch screen.
Moreover, in the maximum configuration, the buyer receives removable tablets mounted in the backs of the rear seats, as well as a special folding footrest where you can position your legs and relax as much as possible. Unique features include a heating system and foot massage that are not yet available from competitors.
Customers are offered a wide range of finishes to choose from., as well as several interior colors, while, as in the case of the exterior, the user can order individual colors and materials, which will significantly increase the already considerable cost of the car.
Trunk volume is only 505 liters, but given the class of the car, it is difficult to imagine that the car will be used as a workhorse for transporting a large amount of cargo. A full-fledged spare wheel can be installed in the underground of the luggage compartment, which somewhat reduces the amount of usable space.
Specifications Audi A8 L 2018-2019
The engine range is represented by three petrol and two diesel engines, each of which is aggregated with an advanced 8-speed automatic transmission, Quattro all-wheel drive, as well as a Mild Hybrid system with a 48-volt battery and a starter-generator that allows you to turn off the engine in traffic jams and coast.
- 3-liter six-cylinder petrol engine TFSI with a return of 340 "horses" and 500 Nm of torque.
- 3-liter diesel V6 TDI, generating 286 "horses" and 600 Nm of peak thrust.
- Eight-cylinder turbocharged 4-liter diesel and petrol engine, reproducing 435 and 460 horsepower, respectively.
- At the top of the range is the 6-litre W12 petrol, capable of churning out a maximum of 585 hp. and an impressive 800 Nm of torque.
Despite the impressive mass, even with the “weakest” engine, acceleration from 0 to 100 is about 5.5 seconds, and the maximum speed exceeds 220 km/h.
But with the top-end W12, the car will exchange the first hundred in less than 4.6 seconds. Fuel consumption in combined mode is 6.3-7 liters for diesels and 7.5-9 liters for gasoline modifications, and the top 585-horsepower engine consumes an average of 11.6 liters.
The flagship A8 L is based on the advanced MLB EVO platform, which involves the installation of a front five-link, as well as a rear multi-link suspension. Note that this platform is more high-tech than the “cart” of the Q7 crossover.
It is also worth highlighting the installation of air springs with an electromechanical system of stabilizers, which provide even higher comfort and stability of the car when passing through high-speed turns.
Rack and pinion steering is complemented by an adaptive electric booster, and efficient braking is provided by ventilated discs on the front and rear wheels.
The safety of the new Audi A8 L 2018
It's not hard to guess that the flagship 2018 Audi A8 L is one of the safest cars on the market, helped by a huge amount of smart systems and assistants, some of which are being used for the first time.
Security systems include:
- All-round visibility cameras;
- Front camera with a laser scanner installed in the windshield of a car;
- Advanced anti-lock and exchange rate stabilization system;
- Matrix-type adaptive head optics;
- Adaptive cruise control system;
- Parktronic front and rear;
- System of recognition of road signs and pedestrians;
- Sensors for monitoring blind spots and driver fatigue;
- Tire pressure sensor;
- Immobilizer;
- Central locking with remote control support;
- ERA-GLONASS system;
- Seat belts for all passengers;
- Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence;
- Semi-autonomous movement system (read autopilot) Traffic Jam Pilot and much more.
Options and price Audi A8 L 2018
Official sales of the new Audi A8 L in Russia will begin in the first half of 2018, while the car can already be bought on the European market, where its minimum price is 94.1 thousand euros (about 6.52 million rubles).
The list of standard equipment includes the following options:
- Matrix-type LED optics front and rear;
- LED DRL;
- 8-speed automatic transmission;
- multimedia steering wheel;
- Digital instrument cluster;
- A pair of touch screens in the center console;
- Leather trim;
- Wide range of security systems;
- Climate control;
- Mild Hybrid system;
- Light alloy wheels;
- High quality audio system;
- Airbags around the entire perimeter of the cabin;
- Air suspension and more.
Conclusion
The 2018 Audi A8 L is stylish, roomy and perhaps the most high-tech premium executive sedan on the market, emphasizing the high status, sense of style and love for advanced technology of its owner.
Test drive Audi A8 L 2018:
So let's take a look today, in my opinion, one of the most interesting Audi A8 L cars with the LWB (Long WheelBase) abbreviation, which means an increased base of valuable 13 centimeters, intended primarily for rear passengers.
Given the purpose of this car, I think it is worth considering the second row of passenger seats in more detail.
Recognizing this car is quite simple, you just have to look at the enlarged tailgate. The appearance of the Audi A8 L is quite interesting. For example, let's look at the headlights. On the base model, one row of diode lights is installed, and the turn signal is placed in the lower part. On the top models, there are already two strands of LED lights, and they glow with a dead white color. But it is worth activating the turn signal, as one of these threads begins to glow yellow.
The front grille proposed at the time has become even larger and more expressive.
The task before the designers, lengthening this car, was probably not an easy one. The fact is that a car with a long base looks rather cumbersome. Here, this was avoided. Look at the photo how harmoniously the body of the long version of the Audi A8 Long looks.
Well, I think it's enough to talk about the external design, let's better move to the salon and look around there more closely. The steering column, of course, can be adjusted for both reach and tilt. In order to activate the MMI system display, which has become much more contrasting and larger, it is necessary to press the Start/Stop button. By the way, this is quite an interesting system, including 3G and Wifi.
Moreover, the car, being in the city, scans the surrounding space, connecting to free Internet sources. The navigation itself now uses Google maps, which makes it quite interesting and more convenient, since all the shooting comes from a satellite. All information is duplicated on the central display, which has become even larger, since the instruments of the tachometer and speedometer have moved to the sides. All information is displayed in 3D.
The front seats, even in the basic configuration, are equipped with an electric drive with many adjustments. In the more expensive Audi A8 L, rear row adjustment is also available. The gear lever selector, which has become lower, is very well thought out.
There is a rather interesting adjustment of the sport mode and drive mode. The sport mode immediately changes the engine management program, the gas pedal control and the box operation mode. In order to activate it, just pull the lever towards you. But you won’t be able to switch with it, since there are paddle shifters for this, which allow you to do this. Moreover, as on previous Audi A8 models, there is a very convenient system. For example, if you do not shift gears on your own for 20 seconds, the car automatically switches to sport or drive mode.
The engine displacement of the Audi A8 Long is 3 liters, the power is 250 horsepower, the torque is 420 Nm. Acceleration to hundreds is possible in 6.2 seconds, and the maximum speed is limited to 250 km / h. The average fuel consumption is 9.3 l / 100 km.
The dimensions of the car are quite impressive: weight 1880 kg, length 5267 mm, width 1949 mm, height 1471 mm, trunk volume 510 liters.
Despite the large overall dimensions of the Audi A8 Long, driving it even in a busy city is quite simple. The larger rear-view mirrors make it very easy to see how you fit in or corner. Moreover, the system notifying that some cars are in the dead zone works quite well both in the city and on the highway.
Thanks to the air suspension that comes as standard, it is possible to select any mode, even on the go. If we talk about fuel economy, then today any European car manufacturer is trying to supply its vehicle with a Start / Stop system.
Speaking of driving on the highway, then the car will show itself from the best side. The dynamics of even a 250-horsepower diesel unit is quite enough. But in sport mode, the eight-speed automatic transmission sometimes has some pretty strong transmission shocks, and this can happen when shifting gears sharply. If we take the previous six-speed gearbox, then this was not observed there.
Let's finally talk about rear passenger space as we're looking at the long-wheelbase Audi A8 L.
The most important thing for cars in this segment is the comfort of the rear passenger. Getting your knees to the back of the front seat is simply not possible. The location of the seat, its design, the design of the door handle, everything is done with dignity. The door blind and rear blind controls are now located on the door panel. Sitting in the back, even in a winter hat, you are unlikely to reach the ceiling with your head. Even if you stretch out on the seat, you are unlikely to reach the back of the front with your feet, this is the comfort of a long wheelbase.
It will be quite difficult for the three of us to travel from behind, since the rear seat stampings are made clearly for two passengers. The backrest for the third seater is more like an armrest.
In addition to standard heating and ventilation, all chairs can be equipped with a back massage system. Rear passengers can watch movies or listen to music as they wish, without disturbing each other. You can also use the Internet and Google online services using your Bluetooth car phone. The high-speed communication module receives images and information from the Google application, combining them with the current route and navigation system data.
In addition to the multimedia system, excellent acoustics are also offered.
Summing up, only one thing can be said - executive sedans have received a worthy competitor. Audi A8 Long can definitely be called a breakthrough for the German company.
Other pictures of Audi A8 Long
At the end of November 2009, at the Design Miami exhibition in the USA, Audi officially introduced its new third-generation Audi A8 flagship sedan in the new D4 body. The car has grown a little, compared to its predecessor - its dimensions have increased by 75 mm in length (up to 5137) and 55 mm in width (up to 1949). At the same time, it became lower by 16 millimeters (1,460).
The body of the new Audi A8 2016-2017 is completely made of aluminum, its torsional rigidity has increased by 24%. At the same time, the mass of the car remained the same as that of the previous G8, although it is still lower than that of the main competitors in the face and.
Options and prices Audi A8 2017
AT8 - 8-speed automatic, quattro - four-wheel drive, Long - extended
The design of the new Audi A8 sedan (D4) is made in the style of the latest innovations from Ingolstadt - the A5 Coupe and A5 Sportback models. Rupert Stadler, chairman of the board of directors of Audi AG, said at the presentation: "The new Audi A8 is the sportiest sedan in its class."
The new A8 debuted with a 4.2-liter eight-cylinder engine producing 372 hp. developing a maximum torque of 445 Nm at 3,500 rpm. Acceleration to hundreds with such a motor takes 5.7 seconds, and the maximum speed is electronically limited at around 250 km / h. Later, the line of power units was replenished with both more modest motors and much more powerful versions.
The new 8-speed automatic transmission of the German company ZF transmits torque to all wheels through a Torsen center differential, which distributes it in a ratio of 40:60 in favor of the rear wheels. From now on, all versions of the Audi A8, with the exception of the hybrid, have become all-wheel drive.
The new Audi A8 2015 debuted a new generation MMI multimedia system with a touchpad that learned to recognize letters and numbers, so that the driver can enter a location name for the navigation system or dial a phone number.
Also on the sedan is now fully LED optics, as well as many security systems, including Pre Sense accident warning systems, pedestrian recognition, night vision system, adaptive cruise control, etc.
At the moment, the base for the Audi A8 (D4) is a 3.0-liter diesel engine with a capacity of 250 hp, which is paired with a 351-horsepower heavy-duty engine with a working volume of 4.1 liters. Petrol engines are represented by three- and four-liter units with a capacity of 290 and 420 forces, respectively. And at the top of the range is the mighty 6.3 W12 with a return of 500 “horses”.
Sales of the Audi A8 D4 in Russia began in March 2010, and in April of the same year they introduced an extended version of the Audi A8 Long. The price of the new Audi A8 2019 varies from 5,745,000 to 9,475,000 rubles.
Updated sedan Audi A8
The updated Audi A8 sedan debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2013, but the German automaker distributed photos and details about its flagship model in mid-August.
So, the restyled Audi A8 (2015-2016) got a different grille, a more prominent hood, retouched bumpers and fully LED front and rear lighting. At the same time, for a surcharge, cars can be equipped with head optics with Audi Matrix LED technology.
Such headlights are able to automatically adjust the light beam, depending on various conditions. For example, they illuminate road signs, people on the side of the road, do not dazzle oncoming drivers at night and direct the beam of light in the direction of the turn in advance, receiving information about the road from the optional Navigation Plus navigation system.
The Audi A8 D4 is now available in twelve exterior finishes, five of which are completely new. For interior decoration, the list of available materials and color schemes has been expanded, the front seats can be equipped with a ventilation and massage system, and the rear seats have an optional adjustable footrest.
Other options include four-zone climate control, a Bang & Olufsen infotainment system with a DVD player and two rear-seat monitors, a head-up display and an upgraded night vision system. The extended version of the Audi A8 L can be equipped with a continuous center console running from the front panel to the rear sofa.
As for the line of power units for the updated Audi A8 in a new body, most of them have become more powerful and more economical. Now the 3.0-liter petrol engine produces 310 horsepower instead of 290, and the 4.0-liter twin-turbo develops 435 "horses" against 420 before.
The three-liter turbodiesel added 8 “horses” (up to 258 hp), and the 4.2-liter engine boasts a return of 385 hp. (before 350). The top 6.3-liter W12 power unit remained with its 500 “horses”, and the updated “charged” sedan is still equipped with a 520 horsepower engine.
Fuel economy Audi A8 2016 contributed to the reduction in weight of the sedan. So, for example, the basic modification with a standard wheelbase now weighs 1,830 kg, which is 85 kg lighter than the pre-styling version.
On the Russian market, both conventional and long-wheelbase modifications of a sedan with all-wheel drive are available. The price of the new Audi A8 2019 started from 5,300,000 rubles per car with a 250-horsepower diesel engine (today diesel modifications are not supplied to us). A car with a 3.0-liter gasoline engine of 310 forces costs at least 5,757,000 rubles. And for the 4.0 TFSI modification, dealers ask from 6,745,000 rubles. The top version with the W12 engine is estimated at 9,475,000 rubles.
