Audi Unveils New UK-Bound A8 Range Flagship

Audi A8

First 12-cylinder engine for the UK creates a new Audi super saloon

Britain’s first ever 12-cylinder Audi - the new A8 6.0 L quattro - is to make its debut here next spring, powered by the very latest Audi W12 engine and featuring unique new frontal styling with a distinctive single frame radiator grille.

Subtle W12 badging will hint at the remarkable performance potential of the latest in a lengthy line of Audi super saloons, but it will be the striking new look which will really mark out the flagship from its V6 and V8-powered relatives. Its central element is the striking single-frame radiator grille, the outer chrome ring of which surrounds the painted grey fins of the grille with horizontal chrome strips.

The potent 6.0-litre W12, with a unique ‘W’ cylinder formation created through the fusion of two ultra-compact aluminium block V6 engines, delivers 450PS and a mighty 580Nm of torque from just 4,000rpm. More than 95 percent of the engine's peak torque is available between 2,300 and 5,300 rpm, making for unparalleled throttle response.

This exceptional output, combined with a lightweight aluminium bodyshell that is some 50 per cent lighter than the majority of competing luxury cars, and 60 per cent more rigid, ensures that the new A8 L 6.0 quattro will deliver some incredible performance figures. It will have the potential to power from rest to 62mph in just 5.2 seconds, from rest to 124mph (where conditions allow) in a mere 17.4 seconds and to an electronically limited 155mph top speed in around 30 seconds.

The exceptional space efficiency of the 6.0-litre W12 engine enables power to be transmitted to all four wheels, via the standard six-speed tiptronic gearbox with Sport program and the unique-in segment quattro system, bringing obvious benefits in traction and composure.