Description:
4.2L V8 engine, Automatic transmission, Up to 16 cty/23 hwy mpg ,All-wheel drive, Navigation System , Curtain Airbags, TractionContrA revised 4.2-liter V8 powers the 2007 Audi A8. Utilizing directfuel injection, it makes 350 horsepower. (Last year''s engine made335 hp.) There are also some audio system updates for 2007,including MP3 capability for the CD player, the introduction of anoptional Bang & Olufsen audio system and standard satelliteradio for the W12. Other A8 updates include a new 20-inch optionalwheel design that''s been expanded to the 4.2 model, a standardrearview camera for the W12 and, later in the model year, optionaliPod integration capability.
Introduction
On the outside, the 2007 Audi A8 exudes class. Neatly tailoredstyling lines are complemented by handsome wheels that fill out thewells, giving the A8 the presence of an athlete in a custom-madesuit. Inside, Audi has worked its usual magic. Even when pittedagainst ultra-luxury cars costing twice as much, the A8''s interiorimpresses with its fine materials, attractive design flair andthoughtful features.
In addition to its all-aluminum construction and standard "quattro"all-wheel-drive system, the A8 boasts other high-tech features,such as an adaptive air suspension that provides a plush freewayride but automatically stiffens up when the car is being pressed ona twisty road. The driver can select one of four settings for theadaptive system: Dynamic (lowest ride height and firmest damping),Automatic, Comfort and Lift (which raises the car up for travel onrough roads). For power, a quietly powerful V8, which has beenupgraded for 2007, or a 450-horsepower W12 engine ensureperformance in keeping with the A8''s autobahn breeding.
For all of its mechanical and design brilliance, the Audi A8typically trails its main German rivals, the BMW 7 Series and theMercedes-Benz S-Class, by a considerable margin in annual sales.Brand awareness, marketing or perceived levels of prestige mightall be to blame, but not the car. Though there''s new and veryimpressive competition this year, including fully redesignedentries from Lexus and Mercedes-Benz, we strongly encourage anyshopper in the premium luxury sedan segment to check out theunderappreciated Audi A8.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
There are three versions of the 2007 Audi A8: A8 (V8-powered and astandard wheelbase), A8 L (the V8 with an extended wheelbase forincreased rear-seat legroom) and A8 W12 (W12-powered with thelong-wheelbase body). Even on the standard A8, virtually everyhigh-end luxury feature is standard, including a navigation system,16-way power front seats, HID headlights and a 12-speaker Boseaudio system (with a glovebox-mounted CD changer). The W12 addskeyless startup, power door closers, parking sensors, four-zoneclimate control, ventilated/massaging front seats, seat heaters andfour-way lumbar adjustment (for all passengers), an Alcantaraheadliner and a wood steering wheel. Most of the W12''s featuresare optional on other A8s. Other options include a 1, 000-watt Bang& Olufsen audio system, adaptive cruise control, a personalrefrigerator, a sunroof and a Sport package for V8 models thatincludes a sport-tuned suspension, 20-inch wheels and steeringwheel shift paddles.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2007 Audi A8 comes standard with a large array of safetyfeatures, including antilock brakes with electronic brakeforcedistribution; stability control; a tire-pressure monitor;full-length side curtain airbags that protect occupants'' heads;front and rear seat-mounted side airbags that protect occupants''torsos; and active front headrests.
