2004-2008 Audi A8: Overview

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Audi redesigned its luxury flagship sedan for 2004, giving it more power and an adjustable suspension. The A8 L retained its aluminum-intensive construction, but now came in only one body length with a wheelbase 2.5 inches longer than the former "stretched" L version. Exterior dimensions were virtually unaltered. Curb weight increased by 240 pounds, and styling changed subtly. Inside, occupants had 1.5 inches less front head room, but about an inch more rear leg space. The A8's engine was again a 4.2-liter V8, which gained 20 horsepower, rated at 330. A six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate and sport mode was the sole transmission. It replaced a five-speed automatic. Audi's quattro all-wheel drive remained standard. Replacing conventional steel springs was an air suspension with four driver-selectable settings: ride-oriented Comfort, self-adjusting Automatic, sporty Dynamic, and Lift for deep snow for unpaved surfaces. Front and rear side airbags, front knee airbags, and curtain side airbags were standard. So were ABS, antiskid control, xenon headlights, and a navigation system. Among the options were heated front and rear seats (and steering wheel), front-seat massagers, and 18- and 19-inch wheels (versus standard 17s). Also available was cruise control designed to maintain a set distance from traffic ahead. Rivals include the Lexus LS 430 and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, along with Volkswagen's short-lived Phaeton.