2001 Audi A8: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Audi's flagship line includes the A8, high-performance S8, and the longer-body A8L. A8 and A8L have 310 hp, the S8 360. All models have V8 power, 5-speed automatic transmission, Audi's quattro all-wheel drive, four side airbags, side-curtain airbags, aluminum-intensive construction, and now a longer 4-yr./50,000-mi. warranty (vs. 3/50,000). Navigation system, heated front/rear seats, and rear sunshades are standard on L, optional on base and S8. Optional Acoustic Parking System now warns of obstacles front and rear. S8 has sport suspension, 18-inch wheels instead of 17s, special trim, and power sport front seats.

COMPETITION

This diverse segment offers the widest price range. It covers everything from the $34,000 Saab 9-5 to the $130,000 Mercedes-Benz SL500. Obviously our Best Buys are somewhere in between. We think that the Acura RL is a steal at $42,000 fully equipped. Though it is a front-drive V6 in a field of V8 rear-drive models, it has a great ride, plenty of power, and is quite luxurious. Mercedes-Benz E-Class, though a bit long in the tooth, also continues to impress with its impeccable road manners and luxurious comfort.

If you are looking for something a bit more sporting we recommend the BMW 5-Series. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the Cadillac DeVille or Lexus GS 300.