2001 Audi A8: Road Test
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2001 Audi A8 ▼
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- MSRP: $62,200 -$72,500
- Invoice: $54,981 -$64,045
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Our road test for the 2001 Audi A8 includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Audi A8 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Audi A8, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Audi A8 help you decide if a 2001 Audi A8 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base | A8L | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 6.4 |
Test A8L clocked 7.1 sec 0-60 mph, good for a big, heavy sedan. Our test S8 needed just 6.4 sec. All models offer strong midrange punch, aided by silky, responsive automatic transmission.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base | A8L | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3 | 4.3 |
Consistent with EPA ratings and above average for the class. Test A8s averaged 19-20 mpg. One test S8 did 14.8, a second example 15.1. All require premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base | A8L | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.7 |
These big Audis smother bumps as well as other German luxury cars, so they're very easy riders. S8's sport suspension and high-speed tires deliver a firmer but still comfortable ride.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base | A8L | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 6.1 |
A8s aren't quite BMW-nimble, but are plenty grippy and predictable with class-exclusive AWD. S8 matches any rival for athletic handling. All feel better planted at high speed than some competitors and have powerful, effective brakes.
QUIETNESS
| Base | A8L | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7 | 7.8 |
Always hushed except for mild tire drone on coarse pavement.
CONTROLS
| Base | A8L | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
Mostly good, but Audi's navigation system is more cryptic than most, lacks video-type display; complex climate controls sit too low. Steering wheel buttons control manual shifting of auto trans, plus audio and phone functions. Interior ambiance befits premium pricing, but one test S8 had a mild, persistent creaking noise in its driver's door.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base | A8L | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.7 |
Enough space for very tall occupants on firm bucket seats, though lateral bolstering mediocre on A8/A8L. Drivers have ample position adjustments, generally clear sightlines.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base | A8L | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 10 | 8 | 6.9 |
A8/S8 are shy on rear leg room and seat width versus BMW 7-Series and Mercedes S-Class, but A8L, which accounts for 85 percent of A8 line's sales, is more than a match.
CARGO ROOM
| Base | A8L | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.5 |
Ample despite bulky side panels. Plenty of in-cabin stowage too, though dashboard glovebox is small.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base | A8L | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 3 | 4.9 |
Very satisfying but costly, due to high-tech aluminum construction. Other big premium sedans offer better dollar value, though none yet offer AWD.
Total Score
| Base | A8L | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 64 | 67 | 63 | 61.9 |
Total Score: 65
Scores for all Premium Large Cars
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