The sportiest premium sedan in the full-size class – the new Audi A8

The Audi A8 hybrid (preliminary data)

The Audi A8 hybrid was designed as a parallel hybrid. Its 2.0 TFSI, which produces 155 kW (211 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque, and the electric motor (40 kW/210 Nm [154.89 lb-ft]) are mounted one directly behind the other and linked by a clutch to work together, when necessary. System power is 180 kW (245 hp); maximum system torque is 480 Nm (354.03 lb-ft). The power flows to the front wheels through a heavily modified eight-speed tiptronic, in which the electric motor takes the place of the torque converter. The lithium-ion battery in the rear provides 1.3 kWh of energy, and its air cooling system switches between two levels as needed.

The performance of a six-cylinder is combined with the fuel economy of a four-cylinder in the Audi A8 hybrid. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) is a matter of 7.7 seconds; top speed is reached at 235 km/h (146.02 mph). In the standard cycle, the hybrid sedan consumes on average just 6.3 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (37.34 US mpg). The CO2 emissions of 147 grams per kilometer (236.57 g/mile) are the top value in the A8 model series and the entire luxury segment.

In electric mode, the Audi A8 hybrid can cover roughly three kilometers (1.86 miles) at a speed of 60 km/h (37.28 mph). Top speed on electric power is 100 km/h (62.14 mph). The driver can choose between three driving programs. The control unit in the powertrain switches between five operating modes as needed: driving with the TFSI, electric driving, hybrid mode, recuperation and boosting.

The standard LED headlights give the front of the Audi A8 hybrid a distinctive expression, and the 19-inch wheels sport the turbine design exclusive to the hybrid. Small badges on the body indicate the drive concept. Special displays and graphics in the instrument cluster present all the key information about the operating state of the hybrid drive. A power meter replaces the tachometer.

The standard equipment list for the Audi A8 hybrid is also very generous. Among other things, it includes a metallic paint finish, ambient lighting, three-zone automatic air conditioning and the Bose sound system. A tailor-made luggage set is provided for the trunk, which is slightly constrained by the lithium-ion battery.