2003 Audi A8 Review

The BMW 745iL, Mercedes-Benz S500 and Jaguar XJ Vanden Plas usually are considered the most prestigious European performance-luxury sedans sold in America.

What about the often-overlooked Audi A8L? This $67,200 long-wheelbase version of the $62,200 A8 fully belongs with such elite cars, which also have long wheelbases (distance between front and rear axles).

The A8L has amazing grace, performance and advanced aluminum construction. And it has Audi's respected "quattro'' all-wheel-drive system.

The 310-horsepower A8L accounts for most A8 sales. The 360-horsepower S8 hot rod version costs $72,500 and is more overlooked than the A8 and A8L, although it's for hard-core luxury-performance auto buffs.

The A8 and S8 have a 113.4-inch wheelbase and are 198.2 inches long. The A8L has a 118.5-inch wheelbase and overall length of 203.3 inches.

Rear doors of the A8L are longer, but you have to look hard to notice the difference. The A8L not only retains the proportional balance of the A8--its extra length gives it a more stately presence than the A8. However, the smooth styling is very conservative.

The added length of the A8L model--introduced for 2000--mainly benefits rear passengers, providing a limousine-style rear seat area.

The A8L only weighs 88 pounds more than the A8, so there's virtually no difference in performance.

Holding down weight of all A8 versions is advanced aluminum construction, which sheds weight of traditional steel without surrendering strength.

The A8 has virtually every comfort and convenience item one would expect in a luxury car, while the A8L adds items including a heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats and a power rear window sunshade.

Most Americans think of Audi models such as the higher-volume A4 and A6 sedans, or its TT sports car. It seems as if the A8 never has been much of a priority with Audi here, although the 2004 A8L might get more promotion. It has subtle styling changes, 20 more horsepower, an extra transmission gear and a slightly longer wheelbase than that of the 2003 A8L

Those changes shouldn't make the current A8L feel dated, although it was introduced for 1997. With the revised A8L on the horizon, the current model only gets option package revisions.

The A8L I tested is among a handful of big cars that pick up speed so effortlessly and silently that an eye should be kept on the speedometer to avoid speeding.

The A8L does 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds, but the main thing is that merging into fast traffic or passing on highways are seemingly effortless maneuvers. The engine absolutely loafs at 1,800 rpm at 65 mph.

Powering the A8 and A8L is a sophisticated 4.2-liter V-8, which has 40 cylinder valves--instead of the usual 16 or 32--to help deliver impressive performance.

The V-8 works with a responsive five-speed automatic transmission, which upshifts seamlessly and downshifts quickly. It always keeps the engine in the right power range for the best acceleration during various driving situations.

The transmission has a manual-shift feature. Drivers also can select a Sport mode, which allows more spirited shifting. The Sport mode holds gears longer during acceleration and downshifts sooner when braking.

Fuel economy is OK for a fast, 4,156-pound car: an estimated 17 mpg in the city and 25 on the highway. Premium fuel is recommended.

Steering of the A8L is fast, but almost too light because of a bit too much power assist, which doesn't provide enough road feedback. Handling is excellent, helped by the advanced all-wheel-drive system. A standard stability control system helps prevent skids.

The ride is smooth and supple, and the brakes are powerful, although the pedal that controls them should have a firmer feel.

Safety features include no less than eight air bags for front and side protection.

Doors open wide, and the A8L comfortably seats four tall adults. It has high-quality materials and easily read gauges, although the ignition switch can be hard to find on the steering column and some dashboard controls are too low. The interior is quiet, except for some tire noise.

Also, controls for the supportive power front seats are awkward to use, and inside door handles are small.

Useful features include a large glove compartment that slides out and lots of storage areas. The fold-down rear seat armrest contains beverage holders. Surprisingly, there are ashtrays for rear occupants, at a time when some cars only offer optional front ashtrays.

The long, deep trunk has a low opening.

The A8L has a lot of Audi world rally championship heritage. It's not for showoffs, but is the kind of car you always hate to eventually sell.


AUDI A8L QUATTRO
Price:
$67,200

Likes:
One of top European luxury-performance sedans. All-wheel drive. Limo-style rear room. Unique aluminum construction. Exclusive.

Dislikes:
Conservative styling. Overly light steering. Awkward power seat controls. Small interior door handles. Lacks prestigious reputation.