Audi A8 review | facelifted flagship remains the understated choice

Audi set a new benchmark when it launched the latest version of its A8 luxury saloon in 2017. Since then we’ve seen the introduction of a new Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW’s all-new 7 Series is just around the corner, so does the A8 still stand out?

Well, understated luxury was always the A8’s strong point and there’s no real change with this facelifted version. It’s definitely the car for those that want to fly under the radar.

One change for 2022 is the introduction of an S Line trim grade, giving a sportier appearance inside and out. Some of the chrome trim has been replaced with gloss black pieces, while new, larger, wheel designs can be specified for an enhanced look.

What set the A8 apart from its rivals before was its self-driving capability. The Traffic Jam Pilot can allow hands-off driving in certain conditions up to speeds of 37mph. Legislation has prevented that feature from becoming a reality in the UK, but the new A8 comes with Audi’s Tour Pack as standard, which features adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist, utilizing the same hardware.

While it isn’t a core fleet model, the A8 is extremely important as it showcases technology that will eventually filter down into future mainstream models.

The headline feature on the new A8 is its Digital Matrix LED headlights. These new lights revolutionise night-time driving. An adaptive main beam function allows the A8 to maintain maximum light output while not dazzling other drivers – a feature found on lots of new cars. Where the A8 steps it up a level is how its assists the driver. The light pattern adjusts to the current driving lane, to encourage the driver to keep between the lines. Warning messages can also be projected onto the road surface and there’s a feature that highlights pedestrians.

The A8’s party piece, however, is a customisable animation that projected onto the road when the car is unlocked at night.

At the rear, the tail lights used OLED technology, like high-end TVs, and can adjust their brightness to warn other vehicles in case they get too close.

There’s no electric A8 for this generation, instead Audi has carried over its mild-hybrid 50 TDI powertrain, which emits from 184g/km and serves up 286PS. It’s probably the powertrain of choice for chauffeuring, with fuel economy in excess of 40mpg easily achievable. There’s also a 55 TFSI petrol and the flagship S8.

The 60 TFSIe plug-in hybrid has been upgraded with a new battery. It now has a 17.9kWh capacity, giving a 37-mile zero-emission range. The car is powered by a 3.0-litre petrol engine and gearbox-mounted electric motor, giving a total output of 462PS.

Standard-fit air suspension ensures the ride remains supple, yet it can be stiffened using the Audi Drive Select switch if the driver prefers a more dynamic feel.

All-wheel steering complements the A8’s nimble handling while also minimising its turning circle.

The A8 had the most advanced interior in its sector, at launch. It now lags behind the S-Class and 7 Series when it comes to outright technology, but twin-screen digital dashboard setup remains easy to use. Both the glass-fronted displays offer haptic feedback, while other interior switches – such as those for the lights and air vents – are replaced by touch-sensitive panels.

The A8 costs from £74,035, undercutting the S-Class by £6,000. The plug-in hybrid starts from £86,635 and offers significant BIK savings for company car drivers, while its extended zero-emission range makes it well-suited to inner-city chauffeuring.