2007 Audi A8: Road Test
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2007 Audi A8 ▼
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- MSRP: $68,900 -$119,350
- Invoice: $64,422 -$108,954
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Our road test for the 2007 Audi A8 includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Audi A8 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Audi A8, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Audi A8 help you decide if a 2007 Audi A8 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| A8 L | A8 L w/19-in. wheels | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 9 | 7.2 |
No opportunity yet to test base A8 or W12. A8 L feels strong at any speed and is likely a shade quicker than 330-hp 2006 test model's 6.6 sec 0-60 mph. Some testers complain of overly sensitive low-speed throttle action. Transmission's performance-oriented Sport mode helps offset somewhat lazy low-speed downshifts. S8 delivers outstanding thrust at any speed, with crisp yet smooth shifts. Audi claims 4.9-sec 0-60 mph.
FUEL ECONOMY
| A8 L | A8 L w/19-in. wheels | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3 | 3.9 |
No opportunity to measure with S8. Test A8 Ls averaged 15.9-17.1 mpg in city/highway driving, 18.2-19.0 in mostly highway use. Premium-grade fuel required for all.
RIDE QUALITY
| A8 L | A8 L w/19-in. wheels | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 6 | 8.4 |
Generally absorbent, though 19-inch tires generate unseemly impact harshness over sharp ridges. Stable at speed, but large bumps can induce unsettling wallow with suspension on softer settings. S8's 20-inch tires, sport suspension make for harsher ride regardless of suspension setting.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| A8 L | A8 L w/19-in. wheels | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6.8 |
Steering firm, accurate, though a little light at lower speeds. Impressive AWD grip, but available 19-inch tires do little to enhance control and balance vs. 18s. Fast corners induce moderate body lean unless driver selects firmest suspension settings. Excellent braking control. S8 more agile all-around.
QUIETNESS
| A8 L | A8 L w/19-in. wheels | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 8 | 7 | 8.5 |
Most always whisper-quiet, though 19-inch tires rumble and whine a bit on coarse pavement. S8's 20-inch performance tires introduce more road roar, and its V10 emits exotic-sounding growl under throttle.
CONTROLS
| A8 L | A8 L w/19-in. wheels | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.4 |
Large gauges clearly marked. Conventional switches handle basic audio and all climate functions. Other adjustments require using standard Audi MMI (Multi Media Interface) with center-console knob, four flanking buttons, and dashboard screen; it's less confusing than BMW's similar iDrive, but still complicates simple tasks and can thus distract driver. MMI/navigation-system screen retracts into dashboard when not in use.
DETAILS
| A8 L | A8 L w/19-in. wheels | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 10 | 8.5 |
Cabin boasts top-notch materials, sophisticated design that stand out even in the high-buck segment.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| A8 L | A8 L w/19-in. wheels | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 10 | 8.9 |
Ample room on firm, wide seats with excellent support. Split center console customizes armrest heights for driver and passenger. Outward visibility impeded by rear headrests, side roof pillars. S8's sport seats offer excellent lateral support but aren't confining.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| A8 L | A8 L w/19-in. wheels | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 |
A8 and S8 furnish bountiful leg room even with front seats fully aft. Longer A8 L and W12 are stretch-out spacious. Contoured ceiling provides good six-footer head room. Large, wide door openings make for limousine-easy entry/exit, as in front.
CARGO ROOM
| A8 L | A8 L w/19-in. wheels | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.1 |
Spacious flat-floor trunk has high-rise power lid, large opening, low liftover. Interior storage enhanced by pull-open portfolio-sized pockets on all doors.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| A8 L | A8 L w/19-in. wheels | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 6 | 5.7 |
Audi trails BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz for prestige and resale value, but it's closing the gap. Its flagship A8 trumps rivals for interior decor, standard all-wheel drive, and, depending on model, base price. A8s can overwhelm with high technology, and the air suspension doesn't provide an ideal ride/handling balance. These are formidable premium large sedans by any measure and Recommended picks in this class.
Total Score
| A8 L | A8 L w/19-in. wheels | S8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 87 | 84 | 81 | 78.4 |
Total Score: 84
Scores for all Premium Large Cars
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