The new Audi A8 L 6.0 quattro has a refined aluminium chassis with four-link front suspension and self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear suspension. The brakes and steering system with variable ratio and servotronic are a new design.

adaptive air suspension – a 4-corner air suspension system with continuous damper control – resolves the classic conflict between good handling properties and suspension comfort commensurate with the luxury class. The adaptive air suspension system has the right characteristic for every driving situation, reduces body movements with its continuously adjusted damping and thus optimises roadholding and comfort.

The data from four sensors on the axles and three acceleration sensors on the body is evaluated in the adaptive air suspension's central control unit. This computer prompts the adjustment of the individual shock absorbers in a matter of milliseconds, based on the driving situation identified, thereby always assuring optimum driving dynamics and ride comfort.

The driver can choose between four predefined settings, for a suspension characteristic ranging from overtly sporty to ultra-comfortable.

In the automatic mode, the body is at the standard height when the car is stationary and travelling at open-road speeds, with 120 millimetres of ground clearance. If the new A8 is driven at more than 120 km/h for over 30 seconds, the body is lowered by 25 millimetres. Conversely, the body is raised if the vehicle is driven at less than 70 km/h for more than two minutes or as soon as it drops below a speed of 35 km/h.

  • The dynamic mode lowers the vehicle by 20 millimetres to a ground clearance of 100 millimetres even before it sets off; its centre of gravity is lower and the air suspension operates with firmer springs and a harder damping characteristic. The suspension tuning is particularly agile as a result.
  • The comfort mode enables the car to glide extra-smoothly over all kinds of surface bumps because the system increases damping forces less frequently at lower speeds. The automatic lowering at motorway speeds is suppressed in order to obtain maximum compression travel.
  • The lift mode can be activated in the speed range below 80 km/h as required. It keeps the ground clearance raised by 25 millimetres and offers the balanced damping characteristics of the automatic mode. It is therefore particularly suitable for driving on uneven terrain.

Supremely spacious

In addition to dynamic performance, ample space and comfort single out the A8 L 6.0 quattro as the ideal luxury saloon for long-distance travel. The rear passengers reap the full benefit of the 3074-millimetre wheelbase. The rear compartment can be equipped with the option of a continuous, leather-trimmed centre console: a sumptuous design feature that provides ample scope for both rear passengers in the generously dimensioned rear compartment to travel in individual style.

Owners of the Audi A8 L 6.0 quattro will find it hard to choose where to take a seat when climbing into their car: behind the wheel they can enjoy driving the sportiest of luxury saloons, with its advanced aluminium chassis with air suspension and adaptive damper control, quattro permanent four-wheel drive and powerful 12-cylinder engine.

Those who leave the steering wheel to their chauffeurs and take a seat in the rear will be greeted by a level of spaciousness and seating comfort that sets new standards. As an option – at no extra charge – passengers can travel on electrically adjusted, ultra-ergonomic individual Comfort seats. These are also available with massage function and seat climate control, according to personal preferences. Passengers can look forward to a very enjoyable journey, because the Audi A8 L 6.0 quattro is at present probably the most dynamic way to be driven rather than to drive.

Multimedia on wheels: Rear Seat Entertainment RSE

Travelling in the rear of the Audi A8 L 6.0 quattro promises to be an even more relaxing affair in future. Developed by quattro GmbH, the Rear Seat Entertainment RSE package combines two 6.5" LCD monitors in the head restraints of the driver's and front passenger's seats, and a 6-disc DVD changer in the luggage compartment. This deluxe saloon car can thus be transformed into a mobile multimedia centre supplying information and entertainment, and even allowing the rear occupants to watch a film while on the move.

The system sockets are at the centre of the rear compartment, and the vehicle navigation can be operated via a separate remote control. A separate AV input for each monitor enables the use of a variety of external picture sources such as a video camera or games console, and a TV receiver is likewise integrated. There are two headset outputs and separate controls on the RSE monitors themselves, to allow them to be operated independently of each other.

A remote control makes communication with the MMI a very straightforward affair: it is used to adjust the volume, select the TV, CD or radio and operate the telephone and navigation system.

A mobile phone/fax unit in the rear compartment is also available; it is either integrated into the centre tunnel or into the long centre console, depending on the car's specification. Folding tables which can be retracted flush into the backrests of the front seats complete the mobile office for the 12-cylinder A8.

The equipment, data and prices stated here refer to the model range offered for sale in Germany. Subject to amendment; errors and omissions excepted.