Already announced for 2005 are two new A8 variations bracketing the V8 L in size and price. Below is a shorter-wheelbase V8 model that's 5.1 inches trimmer in wheelbase and overall length. Its standard equipment is also slightly abbreviated in exchange for a lower list price. Above the V8 L as Audi's new flagship is the 6.0 L. It uses the same 6.0-liter W12 engine available in the Phaeton from corporate parent Volkswagen, but tuned for 450 hp vs. 420, plus an estimated 20 extra lb-ft of torque. The 6.0 is the first car with LED headlamps, low-beams comprising five light-emitting diodes. Audi says the LEDs draw less current than halogen or xenon bulbs, providing a small fuel-economy benefit. The 6.0 also stands apart from other A8s with a big "single-frame" trapezoidal grille, a motif that will spread to other Audis in due course. Otherwise, the 6.0 mostly duplicates the V8 L, but is expected to cost a whopping $40,000 more--around $117,500 base. One report says Audi is pegging U.S. W12 sales at only 150 per year. Meantime, a new high-performance S8 should surface for 2006 on the shorter wheelbase. Look for a twin-turbo V8 with upwards of 500 hp.

In related news, Audi is prepping still another bling-bling limited edition: a mid-engine 2-seat high-performance coupe based on Lamborghini's new Gallardo sports car. Audi owns Italy's Lamborghini and helped developed the Gallardo. Audi's version, previewed in the recent LeMans Quattro concept, will borrow the Gallardo's all-wheel drive and 5.0-liter twin-turbo V-10, though the engine is detuned to "only" some 600 hp. Styling and some dimensions will differ as well, and the Audi will have more luxurious appointments in line with its mission as a comfortable road-gobbling tourer rather than all-out sports car. Sources expect the showroom LeMans to bow in late 2006 for Europe, but Audi has yet to confirm U.S. sale.