Audi reveals the A8 and S8 super saloon

Audi has officially revealed the 2014 Model Year facelift of the A8 and the performance oriented S8 ahead of their global launch scheduled for the Frankfurt Motor Show. The cars feature a number of luxury additionc, the highlight of which is Audi’s new Matrix LED headlamp technology.

Aesthetically, the visual appeal of the A8 facelift closely resembles the current model apart from the new head lamps and the sequentially-illuminated turn signals. The minimalistic exterior tweaks are confined the bumper, front grille and exhaust finishers. In addition to the changes on the A8 facelift, the S8 features a more aerodynamic hood with prominent creases.

On the inside, the MMI display has been broadened along with a change in interior trim. The footrests mounted to the rear of the front seats continue to feature in the new A8, while the instrument panel and the multimedia kit on the front and rear feature added chrome detailing. The update is kept to a minimum as the model is expected to be replaced by an all-new A8 in 2016.The boot capacity has also been increased by 10-litres.

Mechanical underpinnings are not expected to change but an official statement is expected to be announced as part of the global unveiling at Frankfurt. What is clear though is that the eight-speed tiptronic transmission from the current model will be carried forward to the facelift.

The headlamps are definitely a revolutionary addition to the A8 and will appeal to the luxury car buyers for its pure sense of appeal. It is unlikely that the S8 will feature in the Indian market as the previous versions never made their way to the Indian shores. The new A8, (which will come to the Indian market in the LWB form) though will bring a refreshing change to the luxury sedan segment which is awaiting the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class and a facelift for the BMW 7 Series.