Armed with a 3.0-litre turbo-petrol V6 with direct injection and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, the Audi A8 L “55 TFSI” quattro makes do with 340 hp and 500 Nm. An eight-speed ZF automatic transmission sends the power to the quattro all-wheel-drive system that put it to good use. The A8 sprints ahead quickly, taking just about seven seconds to get to 100 km/h. Even with the wide torque band, it does feel like there’s a communication gap in power delivery. A turbo-diesel with around the same torque would feel more wholesome and substantial. Even so, its bulk is well-concealed both in terms of design and agility.
Another aspect of the mild-hybrid system is the ability to coast for up to 40 seconds at highway speed. This is a boon when it comes to saving a little more fuel, with the engine being disconnected entirely when the driver lifts off at speed. The engine turns over at less than 1,000 rpm when this happens. Even when more combustion is demanded, the Audi A8 is capable of trundling along in eighth gear at 80 km/l at just about 1,400 rpm. There are drive modes available ― the usual Comfort, Dynamic, Auto, and Individual ― but the Efficiency mode is where I spent the most time. While the city figure is about nine to the litre, it can stretch the litre to a considerable amount on the highway, which is commendable considering its two-tonne weight and all-wheel driveline. An overall figure of just over 10 km/l is what we achieved.
In the driving department, the Audi A8 L feels nimble and is easy to throw around like a much smaller car. That makes it pretty fun to drive and manoeuvre around the city. Another feature enhancing that last bit is the inclusion of a rear-wheel steering system ― this A8 is based on the VW Group’s MLBevo (Longitudinal) platform that also underpins the Porsche Panamera ― that makes turning circles even tighter and much more manageable. The steering feel, though, is overly light and that aspect becomes evident when taking some corners and under hard braking, but it isn’t a bother at most speeds. What does truly stand out, and in all the good ways, is its phenomenal ride quality.
The way the Audi A8 is set up is what is truly outstanding. The five-level adjustable ride height thanks to air suspension all-round and the magnificent five-link set-up make for an impeccable ride over all kinds of surfaces. It soaks up bumps, dismisses speed-humps and wafts along on highways at speed while maintaining a whisper-quiet cabin all along. The refinement and cabin sound insulation are hugely appreciated. One aspect that became evident was the heat. Yes, it was a very hot day and some respite from the side windows would have been nice. However, that is not an aspect we can blame on Audi, with regulations prohibiting any form of film application.
The Audi A8 L, then, is one of the most refined luxury cars to have. It’s not the best value, at Rs 1.56 crore (ex-showroom) plus tax, being a full import, but it’s thrown a considerably large hat in the ring that’s truly hard to ignore.
Need to Know – Audi A8 L 55 TFSI quattro
Price: Rs 1.56 crore (ex-showroom)
Engine: 2,995 cc, V6, turbo-petrol, 48-volt mild-hybrid
Max Power: 340 hp @ 5,000-6,400 rpm
Max Torque: 500 Nm @ 1,370-4,500 rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed, automatic, all-wheel drive
Suspension: Five-link with air springs front and rear
Weight: 1,955 kg
