The A8 engine variants roll off the assembly line with an eight-speed tiptronic. The lower gears of the classic torque converter transmission are tightly spaced for sporty performance, while their high overall gear ratio of 7.0:1 reduces fuel consumption. All gear changes are fast, very flexible and smooth. The highly efficient oil pump and the heating of the transmission by the engine coolant during the warmup phase contribute to the high efficiency of the eight-speed tiptronic. A hydraulic accumulator enables the start-stop function.

The Dynamic Shift Program DSP is responsible for controlling the transmission and features the automatic operating modes D and S. It is networked with the route data provided by the MMI navigation plus. The driver operates the eight-speed tiptronic purely electronically, either with the standard shift paddles behind the steering wheel or via the elegant lever on the center tunnel console. A brief tap initiates gear changes.

The standard quattro permanent all-wheel drive (not with A8 hybrid) moves the new A8 to the front of the luxury segment. Its asymmetric and dynamic setup harmonizes perfectly with the sporty and stable handling. During normal driving, the self-locking center differential sends 60 percent of the power to the rear axle and 40 percent to the front. If one axle slips, the majority of the power goes to the other axle. The rear axle differential in the quattro drivetrain helps to balance the distribution of axle loads.

Customers seeking even more dynamic handling can order the optional sport differential for the rear axle. It is standard in the A8 4.2 TDI and the S8. It uses two superposition gears to steplessly vary the distribution of the power between the wheels. In fast curves, the sport differential literally pushes the sedan into the radius. The driver can vary the function of the Audi drive select system in five steps (auto, dynamic, comfort, individual and efficiency).

The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.