Neck-snapping performance more commonly associated with low-slung supercars can now be had in the luxuriously appointed cabin of the S8 plus – Audi’s latest high performance offering based on the A8 luxury sedan.
While the standard S8 produces 520bhp of power, the S8 plus develops 600bhp and 760Nm of torque. Thanks to this extra firepower, the S8 plus can accelerate from zero to 100kmph in 3.8 seconds and top out at just over 300kmph.
The S8 plus uses a modified version of the 4-litre TFSI engine already used to power the current 520bhp S8. This sonorous V8 bi-turbo unit has received special engine management control with speed and charge pressure boosting its modified exhaust valves. The inner geometry of the turbocharger has also been optimised for efficiency.
All of the 600bhp and 760Nm is transmitted to the road via an 8-speed tiptronic gearbox and quattro all-wheel drive. Audi is also offering a sports differential which splits the torque between the rear wheels for optimum stability.
Audi will start delivering the S8 plus in bits of Europe by January 2016, followed by other markets. When launched, this new model will wear the title of the most powerful A8 ever, surpassing even the A8 W12.
