Even a car as fine as the A8 struggles to get the respect it deserves in the top tier of the sedan market that is dominated by Mercedes and BMW. That situation should improve for 2007, however, with the return of the hot-rod S8 to the lineup (see separate profile). Regular A8s continue in three improved flavours: regular A8 and long-wheelbase A8 L powered by a 4.2-litre V8 that now makes 350 hp (up 15), with improved fuel economy, thanks to the adoption of Audi's FSI direct-injection technology; and A8 L W12 propelled by a 450-hp, 6.0-litre 12-cylinder unit. All A8s have an aluminum bodyshell and feature quattro all-wheel drive and a 6-speed automatic transmission.

High tech, high style, high performance

Considered a second-tier alternative to rivals