The 2023 Audi S8 is an attention-grabbing luxurious govt sedan, not only for that alluring description however as a result of there’s not likely something within the section that it competes with straight anymore. The brand new Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Sequence do not supply AMG or M-fettled variants at current, with each automakers having seemingly shifted focus to electrical executives just like the EQS and i7. Audi does not have an electrical model – or perhaps a hybrid, for that matter – nevertheless it does have the S8, which nonetheless holds its personal regardless of being older. Each the A8 and S8 obtained a refresh final yr, which included sharper styling and tech upgrades, however not a lot else.
It seems as if Audi goes into battle with a fourth-generation F-15 Eagle whereas BMW and Mercedes get to make use of a more recent fifth-generation F-22 Raptor. However maybe it isn’t so easy. We spent every week driving a 2023 S8 after having in depth seat time in each the 7 Sequence and S-Class fashions. It is probably not the flashiest, however the S8 shines as an exceptional driver’s automobile; here is why somebody may select it over extra trendy rivals.
The Prettiest Flagship?
Audi’s styling updates to the A8 and S8 have been minimal, however why repair what is not damaged? Even a small element, just like the little kink on the headlight, provides the S8 a more durable demeanor. Talking of these lights, Audi provides an out there Matrix LED possibility that may challenge pictures onto the highway; the tail finish options OLED lights. 20-inch wheels are normal, however go for the $2,100 Black Optic Bundle as on our tester, and also you get 21-inch ten-spoke gloss black wheels with summer season tires. Our tester seemed notably eye-grabbing with the blacked-out exterior components and the no-cost Extremely Blue Metallic paint. This blue hue is a complete crowd-pleaser that is assured to attract consideration.
By comparability, the brand new BMW 7 Sequence’ design is extraordinarily controversial because of the grille, and we’re undecided it is going to enchantment to everybody. The S-Class, alternatively, is designed to not stand out and is way more understated. We expect the S8 strikes an incredible steadiness between elegant and menacing, and as issues stand, is by far the prettiest of the three.
Audi Sport Energy
The S8 is probably not an Audi Sport GmbH automobile just like the RS6 and RS7, however the engineers who labored on these vehicles additionally performed a job right here. A 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 delivers 563 horsepower and 590 lb-ft to all 4 wheels through an eight-speed computerized transmission. That is sufficient to rocket the S8 quattro all-wheel-drive sedan to 60 mph in solely 3.8 seconds. For comparability, the Mercedes S 580 is manner down at simply 496 hp with a 4.4-second benchmark dash. From BMW, there’s simply the 4.4-liter V8 760i xDrive that comes with 536 hp. So if you would like the most effective efficiency within the class, it is the S8 by a protracted shot. AMG does have a 791-hp S63 Hybrid on the best way, however it is going to value much more than the Audi.
The S8 is buttery clean in regular driving however can dial up pleasure when requested. This automobile does not shout and bark like an AMG automobile, however there’s a good, throaty rumble from the V8. We would not thoughts if Audi introduced again the S8 Plus as a sportier possibility with extra aggressive transmission mapping and a louder exhaust. Even in Dynamic mode, the gearbox prioritizes clean shifts over fast modifications, which means the S8 can typically really feel caught off guard.
Greatest-In-Class Suspension
Although the S8 stands out as a driver’s automobile, it is also nice as a limousine. Our tester got here geared up with an elective $6,000 Predictive Air Suspension. The automobile can learn the highway forward and reply earlier than even reaching a bump, nearly erasing them from being felt. We will truthfully say that no automobile at this value stage displays such a cushty trip. We really feel that the S8 belongs on the similar desk as Rolls-Royce on this regard. And, when it is time for thrilling driving, the air suspension can practically get rid of physique roll and even stop passengers from getting movement illness.
The suspension serves extra features like rapidly lifting the automobile for simpler egress and ingress, a trick it may possibly obtain utilizing the engine’s 48-volt mild-hybrid system. We have by no means seen a automobile raise up so rapidly, which it may possibly additionally do within the occasion of a t-bone collision to guard occupants. It is an costly possibility, however there is no such thing as a manner we would suggest an S8 with out the Predictive Air Suspension.
A Plain Inside
Audi will get factors for exterior styling, thrilling driving really feel, and glorious suspension, however the S8’s cabin feels rather less than particular. Apart from some normal carbon fiber, there’s little or no to set it other than a median A6 or Q8 when it comes to structure. All the supplies really feel premium and nicely screwed collectively, however the 7 Sequence and S-Class are much more extravagant with bigger screens, flashier ambient lighting, and extra attention-grabbing seat design and supplies. Some could desire the understated, unfussy cabin, however others will really feel it isn’t maintaining with the instances. That is to not say it is something lower than premium, although.
Again seat consolation and luxurious pale compared to what BMW and Mercedes supply, at the very least on our tester with out both of the elective Rear Seat Consolation Packages. Audi provides adjustable rear seats with heating/air flow/therapeutic massage, similar to its German rivals, however this specific automobile was pretty primary with solely stationary heated seats. We would like to pattern the $5,900 four-seat possibility with a built-in console and tray tables, however the primary S8 again seat is nothing to gawk over. That being stated, it does supply a whopping 44.3 inches of legroom, which is greater than the 7 Sequence or S-Class has.
Good Worth For Efficiency
The Audi S8 begins at $120,500, however choices can simply pull it above $150,000. Our tester was geared up with just a few packages, bringing the value to round $138,000. But when we have been shopping for an S8, we would add Bang & Olufsen audio ($5,900) and one of many Rear Seat Consolation packages ($4,200-$5,900). The S8 begins at a dearer MSRP than its closest present opponents – the Mercedes S 580 begins at $117,700, however an S 580 Government Line might be dearer than the S8 in case you tick each possibility field. The BMW 760i xDrive prices even much less to start out with at $116,400, however you may max it out near $150k with each possibility ticked, together with premium paint colours and the best leathers.
Each the BMW and Mercedes have extra over-the-top interiors than the S8, however neither can match the Audi on efficiency. It is the most effective driver’s automobile of the bunch and arguably the best-looking. In the event you worth the driving expertise over sheer magnificence, the S8 may win you over.