Audi S8 4.0 TFSI

Costs

The S8 inevitably sits at the higher end of the cost scale, although improvements in efficiency and economy will result in lower fuel bills in the long term. Insurance costs are high regardless of the specification however.

Space and practicality

The S8 makes the most of its size, bringing impressive levels of cabin space for front and rear passengers. The boot is also generous, if relatively shallow, but this is to be expected with the four-wheel drive system taking up space at the rear of the car.

Controls and display

The S8's improved MMI is the heart of the control system, and builds on an already impressive set up. The new touchpad works effortlessly and requires almost no familiarisation from the driver. The rest of the cabin layout is a textbook example of attractive and efficient integration, although despite this it would take a new owner some time to get to grips with all the systems available.

Comfort

Improvements in handling have not come at the expense of comfort; this is still a supremely comfortable car in which to travel. Double glazing, air-suspension, massage seats - all factors which add to the exceptional comfort on offer. Aids such as the automatic cruise control and the advanced sat-nav also relieve stress on the driver, making it the perfect car for covering long distances with ease.

Car security

Such a desirable car requires a high level of security and the S8 comes complete with a comprehensive alarm system, optional vehicle tracking system and tough double glazing.

Car safety

The S8 showcases some of the latest safety technology to come from Audi so, as well as a comprehensive collection of airbags, ABS and ESP, all A8s come with a basic pre-safe system, which prepares the car for an accident should the ESP sense danger is imminent. This can be optionally upgraded to include collision avoidance with autonomous braking, and even seat adjustment to put occupants in the best position to minimise injury.

Driver appeal

The effortless nature of the S8's performance is the key part of its appeal, and the manner in which it can switch from comfortable cruising to rapid acceleration is very impressive. The turbocharged eight-cylinder engine is quiet and efficient, and the cylinder shut-down mode operates seamlessly to maximise fuel economy. Conversely, a gentle squeeze of the accelerator unleashes the huge power reserves and the S8 accelerates with incredible ease.

Family car appeal

It is probably too expensive to be chosen as a family car, but thanks to the space on offer and the potential for a first-class infotainment system, the S8 could actually do a fine job of keeping a family safe, comfortable and happy.

First car appeal

The S8 is unlikely to feature on the lists of first car buyers, not least due to the price and insurance costs.

Quality and image

Up at the top level of luxury, nothing but the best quality is sufficient, and the S8 does not disappoint. Inside and out it uses very high quality materials, and everything operates with a smoothness and refinement. The S8's image is helped by this high-tech, discreet approach, boosted by the high performance credentials, although the very subtle nature of its appearance could mean it is easily mistaken for a regular A8 model.

Accessibility

Thanks to large doors front and rear, access to the S8 requires very little effort indeed. Self-closing doors and a remotely-operated boot (which can be activated by waving a foot beneath the rear bumper) also removes most of the effort of getting inside.

Stereo and ICE (In car entertainment)

The standard audio system includes a DAB radio, music interface allowing connection for MP3 players, 20GB-worth of storage space plus a CD player. There is also the option to upgrade to a Bose or B and O system, but all offerings produce impressive results, not least because of the low noise levels from the rest of the car.

Colours and trim

Like any luxury saloon of this size, the S8 looks best in more sober hues, and with larger alloy wheels. The S8 comes in two unique colours to distinguish it from lesser models, but even these are subtle shades. Inside there are an almost infinite number

Parking

The S8 is of course a large car, but the speed-sensitive power steering means slow-speed maneuvers are completed with ease. Standard parking sensors front and rear also aid the process.

Spare wheel

Full size spare wheel mounted beneath the boot floor.