The Audi S8 60 TFSI combines executive-class interior comfort with supercar-rivaling performance. Driven by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine pushing out 563 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, this luxury flagship hits 60 mph in a blistering 3.8 seconds. It bridges the gap between a high-end chauffeured limousine and a track-capable sports sedan, using an advanced mild-hybrid system, predictive active suspension, and standard quattro all-wheel drive to keep its considerable weight completely planted on any road surface.
For buyers weighing high-performance executive cars, understanding how this drivetrain, chassis layout, and cabin tech function in real-world conditions matters more than raw brochure numbers. This review breaks down what makes the S8 tick, how it compares to segment rivals, and what you should look out for before signing on the dotted line.
Engine and Powertrain Engineering
At the heart of the Audi S8 sits a heavily reworked 4.0-liter biturbo V8 paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid architecture. This setup generates 563 horsepower between 6,000 and 6,800 rpm, while its massive 590 lb-ft of torque is available from just 2,000 rpm all the way up to 4,500 rpm.
- Mild-Hybrid Assist: The 48V electrical system powers a belt alternator starter that enables smooth start-stop functionality and allows the car to coast with the engine completely shut off for brief periods to save fuel.
- Cylinder on Demand: Under light loads, the engine deactivates four cylinders seamlessly, transforming the V8 into an efficient cruiser before instantly waking back up the moment you flex your right foot.
- Transmission Dynamics: An 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission manages power delivery, offering rapid, crisp gear shifts under hard acceleration while remaining entirely imperceptible during regular city driving.
Chassis, Suspension, and Handling Dynamics
A vehicle weighing nearly 2.3 tonnes shouldn't handle twisty backroads with the composure the S8 manages. Audi achieves this wizardry through a combination of standard hardware features that work in constant harmony.
Predictive Active Suspension
The optional predictive active suspension system uses a front-mounted camera to scan the road surface ahead. It can independently raise or lower each wheel via electromechanical actuators to iron out potholes, reduce body roll through sharp turns, and minimize the awkward pitching motion when coming to a hard stop.
Dynamic All-Wheel Steering
At low speeds, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels, shrinking the turning circle significantly for tight parking garages. At highway speeds, they turn in the same direction, boosting lane-change stability and making high-speed cruising feel completely effortless.
Sport Rear Differential
The standard quattro system is paired with a sport rear differential that actively shifts torque between the rear wheels. Instead of relying solely on braking the inside wheel to force a turn, the differential pushes power to the outside rear tire, helping the car rotate smoothly through corners.
Interior Craftsmanship and Technology
Inside, the cabin leans heavily into minimalist digital design wrapped in rich organic materials.
- Seating: Standard 22-way power-adjustable Valcona leather front comfort sport seats feature diamond stitching, heating, ventilation, and pneumatic massage functions.
- Infotainment: The dual-touchscreen MMI touch response system uses haptic feedback to mimic physical buttons, reducing the guesswork while driving. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integrate wirelessly.
- Audio: Audi partners with Bang & Olufsen to offer an immersive acoustic experience, scaling up to a 23-speaker system that transforms the quiet cabin into a mobile concert hall.
For detailed configurations and official package availability, you can check the Audi S8 Overview.
Common Misconceptions and Real-World Ownership
Performance flagships attract plenty of myths regarding daily usability and maintenance. Here is how reality compares to the internet chatter.
- Myth: It drives like a heavy, unresponsive barge.
- Reality: Thanks to rear-wheel steering and active anti-roll tech, it feels much smaller from the driver's seat than its physical dimensions suggest.
- Myth: Fuel economy makes it impossible to daily drive.
- Reality: While official figures hover around 24.6 mpg on the European WLTP cycle, steady highway cruising easily yields respectable efficiency for a twin-turbo V8. Heavy city traffic, however, will drain the tank quickly.
- Myth: It offers the exact same ride quality as a standard A8.
- Reality: The S8 runs on a stiffer sport-tuned setup. Even in Comfort mode, it communicates road textures more directly than an entry-level executive cruiser.
To explore broader automotive industry trends and comprehensive long-term testing data, visit MotorTrend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Audi S8 require premium fuel?
Yes. To achieve its rated 563 horsepower and protect the high-compression twin-turbo engine from knocking, running on 91 octane or higher premium gasoline is mandatory.
Can you fold down the rear seats?
No. Due to the structural bracing and rigidity requirements added behind the cabin for performance handling, the rear seatbacks are fixed. However, a central pass-through hatch is available for long items like skis.
How does maintenance compare to standard luxury sedans?
Routine service intervals are comparable to other German flagships, but component wear items like specialized summer tires, brake rotors, and suspension fluid services carry higher price tags than those on standard executive cars.
Is the S8 faster than a Mercedes-AMG S-Class?
In straight-line sprints from 0 to 60 mph, the S8 clocks in at 3.8 seconds, putting it right on par with or slightly ahead of comparable V8 luxury competitors while offering a more agile feel through tighter corners.
