Audi has launched the long-wheelbase variant of its flagship sedan, the A8L in India with prices starting at Rs 1.56 crores. The luxury sedan will be powered by a 3.0-litre turbo petrol V6 which will be the only engine option available for India. To rival the likes of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the BMW 7 Series, the A8 L is 5.3 metres long and also features a 48V mild-hybrid system. The long-wheelbase luxury sedan can be customised as per requirements with 54 exterior colour options.
Powering the flagship sedan
Under the long hood of the fourth-generation Audi A8 L sits a 3.0-litre, turbocharged petrol V6 motor (55 TFSI) producing 340bhp and 500Nm of torque. The motor is mated to an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission, sending power to all four wheels via a permanent quattro all-wheel drive system and self- locking differential. The combination helps propel the 2.7 tonne sedan to 100kmph in 5.7 seconds. The motor is also assisted by a 48v mild-hybrid system that is capable of cruising at speeds between 55kmph and 160kmph with the engine off for up to 40 seconds. Audi also claims that the A8 L is more efficient than its predecessor and sips 0.7-litres lesser fuel per 100km courtesy of the mild-hybrid technology.
Dimensions
The chassis of the Audi A8 L is based on the Audi Space Frame platform and is claimed to be lighter compared to a conventional steel construction. The main focus however is the length of the sedan, which stands at 5.3-metres, 62mm more than the BMW 7-Series. It is 1.9-metre wide and 1.4-metre tall with a 3.1-metre wheelbase. The A8 L is now made up of 58 per cent aluminium parts that help increase strength and rigidity while reducing weight.
Feature rich and a safe cabin
The Audi A8 L is equipped with the revolutionary HD Matrix LED headlights with Audi Laser light while the taillamps are OLED. The A8 L also excels in the lighting department on the inside with Matrix LED reading lights along with contour and ambient lighting for the stylish interiors. It features a 10.1-inch touchscreen display along with a second touchscreen for climate control and convenience features. There is a Bang & Olufsen 3D Surround sound system with 3D Spatial sound as standard. There is also a 23 speaker, 1920 watt Bang & Olufsen Advanced sound system available as an optional fitment. The rear seats are where you need to be sitting in the A8 L as they are equipped with a host of features. The rear left seat for example is extremely adjustable with the front passenger seat folding down. It also gets a massage function. The front passenger seat back-rest has a foot massager for the rear seat occupants. Keeping you entertained in the back are two Audi tablets and a rear seat touchscreen remote – For convenience features such as making calls.
The Audi A8 L gets eight airbags as standard, optionally upgradeable to 10 airbags with two central airbags for additional protection. The Active Head restraints protect your neck from whiplash in the event of a rear end collision.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India, said, “The new A8 L marks the dawn of a new design era for brand Audi. The car is sophisticated, technology and feature rich. We have fundamentally re-engineered the Audi A8 L in its fourth generation – it now boasts larger dimensions and is heavily customisable. We want customers to customise their car keeping in mind their likes and requirements and are confident that the new Audi A8 L will witness the same success that its predecessors have enjoyed in the country.”
The fourth-gen Audi A8 L rivals the Mercedes-Benz S Class, the BMW 7-Series and the Jaguar XJ L. However, in terms of overall pricing, features and popularity, the Mercedes-Benz S Class which is priced at Rs 1.39 crore (S 450) dominates the segment.