Audi A8 2.8: Test Drive

Date: 08 August 2008   |   Author: Tristan Young

interior

Category: Luxury P11D price: £49,740 Key rival: Mercedes S-class

Despite being a petrol - and not a diesel, which is more associated with low carbon dioxide output - it emits just 199g/km of CO2. This not only places the car in the 27% benefit-in-kind tax band, but also means it's a class leader regardless of fuel type - at least until the new BMW 7-series arrives later this year.

The 210PS engine is just about powerful enough to provide that whoosh of a true luxury car. Should your chauffeur attempt it, Audi claims a 0-62mph time of 8.0 seconds and a 147mph top speed. Both figures are more than adequate.

The 2.8 is smooth and refined, with little engine noise intruding into the cabin. Chauffeurs take note, though: the auto gearbox is best left in the smoother and more responsive 'sport' mode. In regular mode there's an annoying amount of delay in step-off and down changes.

Aside from the engine the A8 is exactly as you'd find across the range: high quality materials, total comfort and lots of luxuries. But unfortunately our car suffered two technical problems: the optional blind spot warning system did not work and the front passenger door wouldn't open from the inside (no, it wasn't child-locked).

Aside from these issues, the only downside is a poor RV, according to Carcost Emmox. Despite an attractive P11D value of £49,740, Emmox claims the car will retain just 28% of this after three years and 60,000 miles.

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