The full-size luxury segment has always meant to represent the best that an automaker has to offer in terms of technology and comfort. While the segment has shrunk, there are still some excellent examples on the market. However, one model has been criminally underrated for years.
A full-size luxury sedan offers exceptional comfort for those in the front and the rear seats, with cutting edge technology driving the infotainment system and the driver assists. Despite being just as good as the segment’s most popular options, one full-size luxury sedan has abysmal sales numbers in the U.S.
We take a deep dive into the full-size luxury sedan that we believe deserves more credit than it gets. We take a look at its competition and how it stacks up against them. We also dive into the sedans interior comfort and high-tech features. Finally, we outline the powertrain that motivates this massive machine.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including TopSpeed and the EPA.
Related
This Luxury Sedan Is Now Cheaper Than a New Honda Accord
This premium luxury sedan has depreciated into an unbelievable bargain.
The Audi A8 Doesn’t Get as Much Praise as It Deserves
Full-size luxury sedans represent the ultimate level of comfort and technology. While this segment has shrunk over the years, it still features some pretty hard hitters. However, Audi’s A8 is not nearly as popular nor as well regarded as it deserves, at least compared to its core rivals.
The Competition
The full-size sedan segment has been shrinking steadily over the last couple of years, with many people making the jump over to crossovers and SUVs. However, the segment is far from dead, with some brilliant choices that showcase the best that high-end automakers have to offer.
The A8 goes up against the BMW 7-Series, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the Lexus LS, and the Genesis G90. The A8’s German rivals may have seen sales fall over the last couple of years, but they still outsell the Audi by thousands of units. The Lexus, which we think isn’t as impressive as other options, still outsold the A8 in 2024. Genesis has seen a growth in sales while the rest of the segment struggles.
2025 Trims and Pricing
|
Model |
Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
|
A8 |
$92,000 |
|
S8 |
$125,300 |
Audi’s full-size sedan comes in two distinct flavors, the luxury-oriented A8 or the more powerful and sportier S8. For 2025, there have been a few changes to the A8, with most packages getting additional features to bolster their value. The Homelink button has also been repositioned to the rearview mirror.
The A8 is technically cheaper than most of its direct rivals, but a couple of thousand dollars at this price point is almost trivial. The A8 comes extremely well-equipped from the word go, and we wouldn’t blame you if you took it as it comes. However, things like the Black Optic package and the Rear Seat Comfort package are definitely worth springing for.
Related
10 Used German Luxury Cars That Are Now Surprisingly Affordable
Get behind the wheel of prestige sedans for less.
A Serene, Tech-Filled Cabin Awaits You in Audi’s A8
Audi has always found its niche by sitting between Mercedes-Benz and BMW. They aren’t as outright futuristic or plush as cars from Mercedes but aren’t as sharp or as raucous as those from BMW. Inside the A8, however, you’ll find one of the most finely crafted cabins, easily able to compete with the best offerings on the market.
Comfort and Cargo
|
Front Row Headroom |
38.3 Inches |
|---|---|
|
Front Row Legroom |
41.5 Inches |
|
Second Row Headroom |
38.5 Inches |
|
Second Row Legroom |
44.3 Inches |
|
Cargo Capacity |
12.5 Cubic Feet |
The interior of the A8 absolutely drips with class. You can choose from a number of different colors of Valcona leather to adorne both your seats and your dashboard, which blends nicely with the rich wood finish. While it makes use of a number of screens, it does so in a way that doesn’t feel too gaudy or overwhelming.
There is tons of room, whether you find yourself in the driver’s seat or in the back. Comfort is amplified by the available four-zone climate control system. Heating, ventilation, and massaging seats are available in the front and the back, as is power-adjustable lumbar support for rear occupants.
Infotainment and Technology
In the center of the dashboard you’ll find two screens. A 10.1-inch screen sits highest up, running the infotainment system. Lower down you’ll find a separate 8.6-inch screen which you gives you control of the climate control system. Feedback is haptic, meaning that it gives you the feel of pushing a real button. Audi’s 12.3-inch virtual cockpit gauge display is also standard.
Audiophiles will be pleased with the 17-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system that comes standard, with an even better 23-speaker system available. Rear-seat entertainment screens are also available, giving rear passengers access to media, navigation, and other settings.
Related
Best Luxury Cars for Tech-Savvy Drivers on a Budget
These luxury cars prove you don’t need to splurge to drive smart.
Choose Between a Turbocharged V-6 or a Twin-Turbocharged V-8
Performance is an important factor when you’re spending six figures on a brand-new car. The Audi certainly delivers in this realm, with the A8 featuring more than enough power for some spirited driving and the S8 kicking things up a notch. Either way, this luxury sedan offers unmatched levels of refinement.
Performance Specifications
|
Engine |
3.0-Liter Turbocharged Hybrid V-6 |
4.0-Liter Twin-Turbocharged V-8 |
|---|---|---|
|
Transmission |
8-Speed Automatic |
8-Speed Automatic |
|
Horsepower |
335 HP |
563 HP |
|
Torque |
369 LB-FT |
590 LB-FT |
|
Driveline |
AWD |
AWD |
|
0-60 MPH |
5.3 Seconds |
3.2 Seconds |
|
Top Speed |
128 MPH |
155 MPH |
If you go for the A8, then your sole engine option is a turbocharged V-6 which pairs with a 48-volt hybrid system. This powertrain prioritizes smoothness above all else. This is helped along by Audi’s extensive efforts to keep sound out of the cabin. Peak torque is also available at 1,370 RPM, meaning you don’t have to drive like a maniac to achieve nippy acceleration. An active suspension system is also available to improve the already sublime ride quality as well.
If you’re looking for something a little more potent, the S8 features an insanely powerful twin-turbocharged V-8. This model also comes with adaptive suspension, but it is tuned for better cornering and reduced body roll. The S8 can hustle to 60 miles per hour in close to three seconds, which is absurd when you consider the fact that it weighs over 5,000 pounds.
Fuel Economy
|
Model |
City |
Highway |
Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
|
A8 |
20 MPG |
26 MPG |
22 MPG |
|
S8 |
15 MPG |
24 MPG |
18 MPG |
We admit, fuel savings aren’t most likely on the minds of people who are going to buy an A8, but we feel it is still worth mentioning. Neither the A8 nor the S8 are particularly light on fuel, despite their mild-hybrid setups. The S8 is among the heaviest gas-guzzling cars sold in the U.S. WIth high-end hybrids and EVs becoming much more competitive, this may be a real detriment to the premium German saloon.
Related
The Sports Sedan Redefining Luxury Without Breaking the Bank
This luxury sedan is turning heads with its upscale features, surprisingly accessible price point, and impressive performance capabilities.
A Comprehensive List of Driver Assists Are on Offer
Driver assists and advanced safety features have become some of the most desirable features in new cars, particularly in the luxury segment. Audi’s suite of systems is comprehensive and one of the best in the world. The only trouble is that some of the best features aren’t standard.
Key Driver Assist and Safety Features
- Adaptive Cruise Assist
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Audi Pre Sense Front and Rear
- 360-Degree Camera with Virtual Top View
- Remote Park Assist Plus
Beyond the standard driver assists and safety features you’d expect on most cars, especially premium ones, Audi offers a plethora of advanced systems. Their Pre Sense system can predict collisions and adjust things like your seatbelt and roll up your windows to help keep you as safe as possible. The A8 is also capable of parking itself.
Semi-autonomous driving is available through Audi’s advanced adaptive cruise control system. This offers level two autonomy, with the car handling most of the driving functions. Traffic Jam Assist is essentially a low-speed version of this system meant to be used when there is congestion. The A8 comes equipped with the hardware for level three autonomous driving, but they are awaiting regulatory approval. We could see this introduced down the line via an over-the-air update.
