The long-wheelbase Audi A8 Long Executive Sedan sets new standards in comfort, efficiency and high technology. It is available for order in the showrooms of Russian dealers at a starting price of 3,800,000 rubles. The start of deliveries of the sedan to Russia was announced by representatives of the Audi concern at a press breakfast held on November 30.
The Art of Progress
“Russian customers are well versed in cars, highly appreciate comfort and modern technologies,” says Till Brauner, head of Audi Russia. - We are pleased to offer them the best: the new Audi A8 Long - the pinnacle of engineering and design art. This luxury executive sedan has all the qualities of the flagship Audi A8, offering passengers even more benefits in terms of comfort and high-tech equipment.
There is not an ounce of cunning in this so pretentious statement of the head of the Audi concern division: the car impresses with its elegance and perfection of forms both inside and out. In combination with the “stuffing”, the new all-wheel drive Audi A8 Long turns into a mobile VIP-salon - an island of calm and pleasure in a crazy world.
Spacious rear
Compared with the standard version of the flagship in the new sedan, the wheelbase has been increased by 13 centimeters. The resulting extra space is used to improve the comfort of rear seat passengers.
In order to satisfy the tastes of different categories of customers, Audi has developed an extended version for both customers with a personal driver and for those who prefer to drive themselves.
The Audi A8 Long comes standard with a classic three-seater rear seat.AZ
Additional comfort and functionality of the sedan will help provide a number of attractive options.
Rear seats A8 Long
In the rear part of the cabin it is possible to install two comfortable separate seats (standard for W12). The equipment of separate seats includes three-level heating, electric adjustment of the departure and inclination of pillows, head restraints and pneumatic lumbar support. The function of remembering settings and additional folding compartments in the rear armrests of the doors are included in the list of standard equipment. Additional equipment includes superior comfort headrests, the ability to move the front passenger seat forward and backward from the rear seat, and a four-zone automatic climate control system.
Options available from Audi for split seats include ventilation and pneumomassage with two programs and three intensity levels. Another eye-catching option is the solid center console, which forms an elegant wave that flows smoothly into the center tunnel. Leather and fine wood veneer give the console a great look.
The seat adjustment switches are located on the sides of the console; a wide, comfortable armrest is installed on top. Inside the console there is a roomy compartment, in which, on request, a car phone and a 230-volt socket can be installed. An additional compartment in the rear wall of the cabin is hidden behind the panels trimmed with wood. At the front of the console is the control unit for the separate air conditioner for the rear seats. Audi offers a range of extras, including folding tables and a mini-fridge that can hold two one-litre bottles and is illuminated by two LEDs.
The top option for the Audi A8 Long is a rear seat on the passenger side, providing a level of comfort comparable to business class on an airplane. The passenger can place their feet on the electrically adjustable footrest installed in the lower part of the backrest of the front passenger seat, and use the remote control to turn on the back massage performed by ten air chambers in four programs, each with five levels of intensity and speed. Programs are responsible for different types of massage - some offer a massage of the entire back, others are designed to relax the shoulder area.
In addition to the standard equipment for the single-seat version, when ordering a lounge chair, an extended center console, a ventilation system and an infotainment system for the rear are also installed. Soft lighting adds to the pleasant atmosphere.
The left rear seat is also equipped with a massage function with two programs and three intensity levels. The Comfort Entry/Exit function automatically pushes both rear seats to the rearmost position when the corresponding door is opened.
Symphony of light
The elegant exterior design continues in the interior of the Audi A8 Long. The interior is noticeably wider and more spacious than the previous model. The main distinguishing feature of the interior is the “border”, a wide arc that covers the entire cabin and gives it a resemblance to a yacht. This detail complements and emphasizes the expressive, neat contours of the interior space.
Another feature of the Audi A8 Long that only shows up in the dark is the interior lighting, which uses white LEDs and is controlled by sophisticated electronics. The lighting turns on when the sedan's lock is remotely opened and spreads through the cabin in a wave coming from the driver's seat. The driver can choose a specific lighting effect - muted, cold or warm, plastic or focused. The light paths on the headlining and between the safety handles also create a special effect.
Optional ambient lighting Ambient lighting is a true symphony of light that combines additional functionality with artistic merit (included with solid center console and standard with W12). LEDs, fiber optics and light paths illuminate a number of additional areas of the cabin. This creates the impression that the central panel is floating in the air. Many of the LEDs are bi- and tri-color; the driver can select a color scheme (ivory, polar, ruby/polar light) using a multimedia interface and adjust the brightness in four zones. Additionally, Audi installs reading lights and an accessory mirror at the rear (standard on the W12 and when ordering the panoramic roof).
Comfort front
The anatomically shaped front seats of the Audi A8 Long perfectly embrace and support the body, while the sloping upper back section provides very comfortable shoulder support. Standard seats are adjustable in 12 directions - in length, height and inclination of the pillow, backrest inclination; The lumbar support has two adjustments. Audi also offers optional seat heating and a memory function, complete with electrically adjustable headrests and belt height.
Comfort seats with 22-way adjustment allow you to immerse yourself in luxury even deeper. Here you can also adjust the slope of the upper back, the depth of the seat cushion, the slope and height of the superior head restraints, the width of the side ledges-supports. The last function and adjustment of the lumbar support in four directions is pneumatic; The package also includes a function to remember the settings.
In addition to heating, a high-performance three-stage ventilation system with four small exhaust fans and a five-program air massage function can be ordered for the luxury seats. The deluxe seats are also available with a diamond pattern for a sportier look.
The number of seat adjustment switches has been significantly reduced in the car. All basic settings are still made using switches that match the shape of the seat. A four-button rotating ring multi-function switch is used to control auxiliary functions such as side supports and massage; each changeover is clearly shown on the MMI display.
Sufficient storage space for various accessories is another attribute of a luxury car. The Audi A8 Long has a compartment under the front of the center armrest that can accommodate a cell phone, car phone or iPod.
Control devices: a clear concept
The control principles used in the Audi A8 Long are traditional Audi - they are simple and intuitive.
The design of the multifunctional information system has undergone changes. The display size has been increased to 7 inches diagonally, which allows you to display all the functions of an intuitive menu with one main field and two additional separate zones. On vehicles with a 3.0 TDI engine, the information system includes an efficiency program that advises the driver on how to drive economically. Another function allows you to get information about the currently operating energy consumers (for example, air conditioning) and their impact on fuel consumption.
The information system is also controlled by the latest version of the multifunctional steering wheel, which is available in two versions - with three or four spokes. The steering column is electrically adjustable and a heated rim can be ordered as an option. Starting and stopping the engine is carried out using a separate button located on the center tunnel console next to the electromechanical parking brake lock.
The front section of the console is visually separated from the dashboard. Wide and slightly sloping, it is the ideal control panel for the deluxe automatic climate control system. Silent and virtually draught-free, the system provides ventilation through a grill at the top of the dashboard. Air conditioning is carried out in three modes, the fourth mode is provided for the winter season.
Audi also offers an optional four-zone automatic climate control system (comes with the W12 and also with the solid center console order). It includes a separate rear air conditioner and a control system with 25 servomotors.
Touchable relief: MMI terminal
Under the climate control keys is the terminal of the new multimedia system with an MMI interface, divided into three relief zones. On the right side are the acoustic controls, in the central zone - a large rotary switch, as well as buttons and touch keys for navigating the menu. On the left side, six radio station selection buttons or the MMI touch of the optional MMI Plus system with navigation system (standard with W12) can be located. The functions are very easy to control: while the driver's wrist rests on the 8-speed tiptronic shift lever, his hand remains free to press and turn the switches.
When the MMI multimedia interface system is switched off, the monitor retracts into the instrument panel, leaving only the top edge visible, forming an elegant decorative element. When turned on, the monitor slides up elegantly. The display has a diagonal size of 8 inches and a completely flat surface. Similar to the information system display, the screen is divided into three zones to display an advanced, intuitive menu.
All menu sections and illustrations from audio CDs are displayed using elegant 3D graphics.
Optics
The basic equipment includes xenon plus bi-xenon headlights. They can be supplemented with an optional adaptive headlight system with constant light range control. Installed in front of the rearview mirror, the camera detects other vehicles by their lights. The computer smoothly adapts the range of illumination, always providing the best possible view.
New all-weather headlights are standard on the Audi A8 L. They are integrated into the main headlights and replace the fog lights, whose traditional place in the air intakes is now reserved for the radar sensors of the optional stop & go cruise control system.
The headlight control unit works closely with the optional MMI navigation plus (standard on the W12). The navigation system receives route data in advance and transfers them to the computer responsible for the optics - for example, to switch on the desired mode even when entering the highway. In countries with left-hand traffic, the corresponding optics mode is automatically switched on.
The latest development in the new Audi A8 Long is the optional LED headlights (standard on the W12), with LEDs used for all optical functions - another Audi innovation. Thanks to cutting-edge optics, this large sedan is easily recognizable from afar. With a color temperature of 5,500 Kelvin, these headlights are identical to daylight and therefore much less irritating to the eyes. With 76 LEDs each and no moving parts, these headlights are designed to last the life of the vehicle. Complements the positive characteristics of headlights low energy consumption. With low beam, only 40 watts are required per headlight.
The standard taillights are almost entirely based on LED technology; each uses 72 LEDs.
The taillights form a trapezoidal contour that appears as a uniform strip due to the direction of the light and the surface relief. The stop signal is inside the trapezoid. When the new Audi A8 Long decelerates hard, the brake light flashes at a high frequency, and if the sedan comes to a stop after a hard deceleration, the hazard warning lights come on.
Highly organized system: adaptive cruise control with stop & go function
Probably the most sophisticated and highly organized assistance system in the Audi A8 Long is Audi's stop & go adaptive cruise control, a radar-based piece of equipment that automatically regulates speed.
The system has been significantly improved compared to the previous version. It regulates the speed and distance to the vehicle in front, accelerating and decelerating the vehicle from 0 to 250 km/h and automatically braking under certain conditions.
The system is especially useful when driving in intermittent traffic, slowing down the sedan without driver intervention. If the stop is short, the machine automatically resumes movement; after a long stop, the driver needs to lightly press the gas pedal or the cruise control lever. This can also be done after the Audi A8 Long has stopped: for the next 15 seconds, the car will be ready to move again and will follow the car in front when it moves off.
The ACC stop & go system uses two radar sensors that are installed in the air intakes at the front of the machine and are automatically heated in cold weather. The sensors emit radio waves at a frequency of 76.5 GHz, covering a segment of 40 degrees and a distance of 250 meters. By receiving the reflected waves, the computer recognizes the cars ahead. The driver can set the time interval to the front car by choosing one of four options and one of three levels of dynamics. Deceleration is limited to four m/s².
The adaptive cruise control with stop & go function receives route advance information from the MMI navigation plus and works closely with other assistance systems in the Audi A8 Long. Receiving data from 27 control devices, it continuously analyzes the situation around the car and processes the results at an extremely high speed. A large amount of information allows the system to calculate complex scenarios and provide the driver with the necessary support in advance.
The integrated functions of the ACC stop & go system are useful in many situations. When driving around a car turning right off the highway, or moving another car into the lane occupied by the Audi A8 Long on the highway, the system will handle the situation precisely and without fuss, making the movement smoother and more harmonious.
Lane change assistant: Audi side assist
Audi side assist is activated at a speed of 30 km/h. Two rear 24 GHz radar sensors monitor the situation behind and to the sides of the sedan at a distance of 70 meters. Their data is analyzed by a computer. If another vehicle appears in a critical area - an area invisible to the driver or when quickly approaching from behind - the so-called information signal is activated. In the side mirror housing, a yellow LED indicator lights up, which can only be seen by looking directly into the mirror.
If the driver turns on the turn signal to change lane despite the warning, the indicator becomes brighter and flashes at a high frequency. This warning signal is hard to ignore. The indicator light is specially made in such a way that it is visible only to the driver. Its brightness adapts to outdoor lighting conditions and is controlled using the MMI multimedia interface.
Lane Keeping Assist: Audi lane assist
At speeds above 65 km/h, Audi lane assist warns when the vehicle may unintentionally veer out of its lane. The camera installed in front of the rear-view mirror scans the track within 60 meters and in a 40-degree segment. The camera transmits 25 high resolution images per second. The image is processed by software that recognizes road markings and keeps the Audi A8 Long in its lane.
If the driver allows the vehicle to deviate towards the lane without activating the turn signal, Audi lane assist will warn by vibrating the steering wheel. Vibration intensity and when the warning is activated can be selected from three options. The Audi lane assist system is much more efficient than before. So, a color camera distinguishes between yellow and white markings.
The camera of the Audi lane assist system also performs a number of other functions. It receives data for the stop & go adaptive cruise control system, the information is also used to control speed in slow moving traffic. The camera plays an important role in the activation of emergency braking by the proactive assistance system Audi pre sense front and in the continuous monitoring of the range of the headlights.
Night vision system
Another innovation used in the Audi A8 Long is the night vision assistant, which recognizes pedestrians at night. The heart of the system is a thermal imaging camera installed in the radiator grille. The camera has a wide viewing angle (24 degrees), its protective glass is cleaned and heated when necessary. Using Far Infrared Radiation (FIR), the camera responds to the heat generated by objects. The computer converts the camera signals into a black and white image and displays it on the display of the information system.
Far infrared technology has significant advantages over competing systems. Regardless of the speed of movement, visibility up to 300 meters is provided, which is much more than the distance covered by high beam headlights. Due to this, the light from oncoming cars and other sources does not affect the perception of objects. The system automatically focuses on the most important objects - animals and people. Their bright figures are clearly visible in the image due to the heat generated, contrasting with the dark background of the roadway, which has a lower temperature.
The image processing program is able to recognize people at a distance of up to 100 meters. They are indicated in yellow on the display. If the control unit detects a threat, for example, due to a person on the road at a dangerous distance from the car, the person will be marked in red on the display, and an audible signal will turn on at the same time. Like all assistive systems, the night vision assistant operates with certain system limitations.
Safety
The Audi A8 Long features new, intelligent occupant protection: a high-strength body, adaptive restraint systems, the new Audi pre sense proactive safety system (in addition to the standard version, three advanced levels are also available).
In the standard version (Audi pre sense basic), the system uses data from the ESP stability program. In the event of a critical situation, such as skidding or emergency braking, a control unit is connected to the process. Depending on the situation, it turns on the emergency warning lights and closes the side windows and sunroof, fully or partially tightens the front seat belts. This process is carried out by small electric motors and is reversible - if the incident can be avoided, the tension of the belts is again loosened.
The new safety system is available in several versions, two of which - Audi pre sense front and Audi pre sense rear - are closely linked with optional assistance systems - adaptive cruise control with stop & go and Audi side assist, which significantly expand their capabilities.
Audi pre sense front protects against rear-end collisions with the vehicle in front and is activated in three stages. If the sedan overtakes a vehicle traveling at a slower speed, a warning horn sounds and a red indicator on the information system display lights up. At the same time, the brake system is filled, pneumatic shock absorbers and suspension dampers are switched to hard mode. The driver is given a warning to brake in time or avoid a collision, which is often more effective.
If the driver does not take any action, the second stage of the system is triggered - an emergency warning - a warning push, produced as a result of a sharp short-term rise in pressure in the brake system. At the same time, the tension of the seat belts is slightly increased. When you press the pedal, the brake force is adjusted according to the speed of the vehicle in front. The fact that the braking system is already full saves between 0.1 and 0.2 seconds, which corresponds to a distance of more than seven meters at a speed of 130 km/h.
If the driver does not react to the warning push, the third stage is activated - partial braking, at the beginning of which the Audi A8 Long decelerates by 3 m/s2. Windows and hatches are closed, emergency warning lights are switched on.
In sedans equipped with the full version of the Audi pre sense plus proactive safety system, which is part of the driver assistance package, the fourth stage of the system is activated if necessary. The braking intensity is increased to 5 m/s² and the seat belts are fully tensioned. This is followed by the final phase - maximum emergency braking, which begins half a second before the impact. At this point, there is no time to avoid the collision. The force of the impact and its consequences are significantly reduced by reducing the speed of the Audi A8 Long by 40 km/h.
Audi pre sense rear reduces the impact of a rear-ended vehicle. She closes the windows and sunroof and tightens her seat belts. If the Audi A8 Long is equipped with memory seats, the upper backrests of the front seats (and the optional individual seats in the rear) as well as the head restraints of the front seats are moved to a position that reduces the risk of spinal injury. The optional side bolsters on the front seats are filled with air.
The body of the new Audi A8 Long provides protection in any kind of collision. In a frontal collision, the impact energy is optimally distributed to the sides of the car body using four main paths: two absorption zones are located in the upper part of the wings and two more in the longitudinal elements of the engine subframe and front axle. The streamlined shape of the front of the car also helps to minimize the consequences of an accident for other participants in a collision.
The omega-shaped crossbar, made of double rectangular section, provides additional protection for the passenger compartment. Located at the level of the footwells, it diverts impact energy to the floor and the A-pillars. The longitudinal elements of the floor join under the arrow-shaped rear seat-sofa, forming, together with the central tunnel, the most reinforced unit of the body. Large beams at the rear of the car protect the passenger compartment. In the event of a collision, the rear wheels are pressed against the side members of the body frame.
The spacious cab of the sedan is equipped with an adaptive passive safety system. It is connected to the Audi pre sense network and reads information from eight pressure and acceleration sensors. The smart system coordinates the airbags and seat belt force limiters, providing superior protection for passengers of all sizes.
Sensors on the front seat rails detect the position of the seat. Based on the occupant's approximate location, the control device ensures a minimum level of movement of the occupant's upper body before the belt and airbag deploy. Audi reduces this distance by about ten centimeters thanks to the belt pretensioning function.
If a passenger - usually a smaller person - sits in close proximity to the airbag, after the airbag is deployed, some of the air is quickly expelled through special valves, providing a softer collision with the head and chest of the passenger. In the event of a strong collision, as well as a more distant position of large passengers, the valves open later. The belt force limiters are also adaptive. They adjust the degree of tension of the belt, providing a minimum load on the chest.
Another important element in the car's safety system is the design of the seats and head restraints, which protect against rear impact. These types of crashes often occur at traffic lights, with impact speeds of 15-50 km/h. The integrated Audi head restraint system reduces the risk of injury to the cervical spine.
Four airbags in the backs of the front seats and next to the rear seats will protect the occupants' chest and pelvis in the event of a side impact. Head airbags, located between the front and rear pillars of the car, open like curtains, covering the space from the ceiling to the threshold. All seats in the new Audi A8 Long are equipped with three-point automatic seat belts with force limiters. The rear seats are fitted with Isofix child seat mounts.
The new Audi A8 Long meets all pedestrian protection requirements. The foam layer between the front bumper and the crossbar reduces the impact force in the knee area. When you hit your head on the hood, there is a strong deformation of the aluminum panel, located at a considerable distance from the rigid elements of the engine.
Standard insured accidents - collisions in the parking lot - will not entail significant financial losses. Mounted in front of the crossbars at the front and rear of the vehicle, the aluminum crash boxes can be replaced relatively easily.
In a parking collision situation at low speed, the front and rear sensors remain intact, as they are cleverly integrated into the flexible bumper housings.
Equipment
The standard equipment of the model not only corresponds to the status of the car, but also attracts with richness and variety. All cars offered on the Russian market are equipped with:
8-speed tiptronic transmission with electronic control,
adaptive air suspension,
Quattro all-wheel drive system.
Driving dynamics management system Audi drive select.
Proactive safety system Audi pre sense.
Eleven color options are available for Audi's new flagship - two pure and nine metallic or pearl finishes: Ibis White, Brilliant Black, Glacier White, Ice Silver, Quartz Gray, Havanna Black, Phantom Black, Night Blue, Impala Beige, Emerald Black and Oolong Grey. The basic version of the Audi A8 Long W12 quattro is painted metallic. By special order of the buyer, painting in other exclusive colors is carried out.
By the beginning of sales, the following versions of the car are available for order:
Audi A8 Long TFSI (290 hp) from 3,800,000 rubles
Audi A8 Long TDI (250 hp) from 3,800,000 rubles
Audi A8 Long 4.2 FSI (372 hp) from 4,550,000 rubles.
In 2011, the production of the Audi A8 Long model will begin with a W12 engine producing 500 hp. However, the price of the top-end equipment with the most powerful motor is still unknown.
Full standard equipment of the Audi A8 Long:
8 speed tiptronic automatic transmission with dynamic program
Shifting gears, the ability to manually shift gears with paddle shifters and sport mode
Servotronic
ESP Stability Program (combines ABS, EBV, ASR, EDS)
Brake Assist
Audi pre sense basic safety system: Using various vehicle systems, it analyzes the traffic situation and, in the event of a risk of collision, takes preventive measures to protect passengers.
Pre-tensioning seat belts, activating hazard warning lights, closing side windows and sunroof (if ordered)
Airbags for the driver and front passenger with two-stage
activation system
Side airbags front and rear complete with head airbags
- "Active" headrests for the front seats
Audi Space Frame
Recovery system
Three-point automatic seat belts in front, with mechanical
height adjustment"
Seat Belt Usage Sensor for Front Seats
Cruise control
Audi drive select. The ability to change the characteristics of the suspension, steering response of the gas pedal and other systems (if ordered)."
Adaptive air suspension in combination with stepless electronic damping control with the possibility of changing the clearance (4 adjustment modes)"
Disc brakes front and rear
Electromechanical handbrake with hill start assist.
quattro® permanent all-wheel drive with asymmetric dynamic torque distribution
Alloy wheels 8Jx18, 7-arm design
Tires 235/55 R18
Tire pressure monitoring system with audible and visual warning of a flat tire/tires
Compact spare wheel
Security bolts
Climate control with air flow regulation system, humidity and air quality sensor, dust filter. Individual settings for the driver and front passenger. Three operating modes of the climate system: soft, medium, intensive.
Radio with DVD player integrated in MMI with SDHC card reader. Supports MP3-, WMA-, AAC-, MPEG-1-,-2-,-4-,WMV, Xvid formats. It is possible to copy video and music files to the built-in hard disk and then play them. You cannot copy protected files (DRM).
Audi Sound System: 6-channel amplifier, 10 speakers and rear subwoofer; total power 180 W
MMI - Multi Media Interface with 8"(inch) color display
Color on-board computer. TFT display 7"" (inches), with the ability to display the operating modes of security systems, active multimedia tools, as well as optionally ordered: navigation system, night vision system, adaptive cruise control, telephone.
Bi-functional xenon adaptive headlights with washer
- "Daylight
Light-emitting diode (LED) tail lights, brake lights, fog light, direction indicators
Audi parking system plus: Acoustic parking system front and rear with optical display on the MMI display
34. Front seats with electric adjustment for length, height, inclination of the seat and back, support of the lumbar spine "Ergomatic"; mechanical adjustment of head restraints and seat belt height
Heated front and rear seats, separately adjustable with three modes
Front comfort armrest, separate for driver and front passenger, with storage compartments and tilt adjustment.
Child seat anchor ISO FIX (2 brackets located on the outside of the rear seat for attaching child seats)
Seat upholstery in Valcona leather
Multifunctional leather steering wheel with shift function for tiptronic transmission; design - 4 spokes
Safety steering column with electric adjustment in length and height; with comfort entry/exit function.
Finishing the gearshift lever with leather.
Heat-insulating side and rear windows, windshield - with colored stripe
Electrically adjustable heated exterior mirrors, folding
Safe interior rear-view mirror with auto-dimming; light and rain sensor
Make-up mirrors in sun visors, illuminated for driver and front passenger
Sunblind for rear and side windows, electrically operated
Central locking for locking doors, trunk, gas cap; with remote control
Alarm with immobilizer
Trunk lid with servo closing and electr. door closer
Combination trim strips: walnut / black high-gloss
Aluminum trim of interior elements: edging of air vents, edging of MMI display, edge of handbrake control button.
Aluminum door sills
Dividing rear armrest with integrated drink holders
Smoker's pack
Floor mats front and rear
First aid kit and emergency triangle
Optional for 4.2TDI
quattro® permanent all-wheel drive with asymmetrical dynamic torque distribution and sporty rear differential
Optional for A8D4 Long
Hatch made of tinted safety glass, sliding / lifting, with electric drive; with infinitely adjustable sun protection, with convenient closing via central locking.
Adaptation for Russia
Additional engine and gearbox protection
Instruction manual and service book in Russian.
When preparing the text, materials and photographs of the Audi concern were used
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Text by Evgeny KONSTANTINOV
Photo Audi and Evgeny KONSTANTINOV
Thirteen centimeters - so much now separates the standard Audi A8 and long wheelbase flagship A8 Long, the first driving presentation of which took place in Munich on July 19.
The extra space in front of the rear seats transforms just a big sedan into an executive sedan. That is, in the car for the rear right passenger. In our country, the A8 is traditionally loved primarily in this capacity, especially in government agencies and large near-state corporations. The Long version in Russia surpasses the standard one by several times in sales.
Not for all
That's right - there shouldn't be many such cars?
The test drive began right at the Munich airport with the distribution of cars. The very flagship flagship - a luxury car in the maximum configuration with a new five-hundred-horsepower W12 engine with a volume of 6.3 liters - was not enough for everyone. You will say: everything is right - there should not be many such machines? So you are also German. You can't be so pragmatic about the tests! Of course, price, tax, insurance, maintenance, fuel consumption all add up to the exorbitant cost of owning a twelve-cylinder engine. There is no practical point in buying, but there is prestige and a magical “I want”.
| Engine
V6 Turbo Petrol / V6 Turbo Diesel / V8 Petrol / V8 Turbo Diesel / W12 Petrol Engine capacity(l) 3.0 / 3.0 / 4.2 / 4.2 / 6.3 Power(hp @ rpm) 213@4850-6500 / 184@4000-4500/ 372@6800/ 350@ 4000/ 500 @6200 Transmission automatic (tiptronic) 8 steps Drive unit full Overclocking up to a hundred (c) 6.2 / 6.2 / 5.8 / 5.6 / 4.7 Max Speed 250 km/h Fuel consumption(l/100 km combined) 9.3 / 6.6 / 9.7 / 7.8 / 12.4 Dimensions(length×width×height) 5267×1949×1471 mm |
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And yet, even in Russia, the W12 will be more exotic than a real leader. This is confirmed by the sales statistics of the previous generation: the previous six-liter W12s were bought about five times less often than the same cars with the 4.2-liter petrol G8, which created the bulk of the market. Moreover, both among A8 Long and among ordinary ones. Even the budget front-wheel drive version with a modest V6 3.2 was twice as popular. By the way, there will be no “non-driven” A8 Long in the new generation: all long-wheelbase vehicles are equipped with a Quattro transmission that constantly transmits torque to both axles.
The power of tradition
In our country, unlike Europe, it is still not prestigious to ride a “tractor”.
I asked for the 4.2-litre petrol car that is most in demand among us. It is these machines that will be the first to enter the Russian market in early December. Other options will be available later, tentatively after the new year. And what? FSI 4.2 was not found in the journalists' parking lot! Obviously, the fact is that other motors are much more relevant for Germany. I had to wait until the car was brought from the underground garage. And almost the entire open parking lot was occupied by diesel cars with V6 3.0 liter engines, which are practically not bought in Russia, and V8 4.2 liter, which are not bought in Russia at all. In our country, unlike in Europe, it is still not prestigious to drive a "tractor", although modern diesel engines are often much more interesting in terms of their technical characteristics than gasoline units. For example, the same TDI 4.2 in terms of torque is twice as much as the gasoline "eight" of the same volume, and in terms of acceleration dynamics "to hundreds" it turns out to be 0.2 s faster. But alas. It is difficult to argue with the strength of tradition, backed up by fears about Russian diesel fuel.
In addition to diesels, the parking lot was occupied by cars with a TFSI nameplate - with a new 3.0-liter turbocharged petrol V6 for the A8, inherited from the flagship from the A6. There, the Russian public received this 213-horsepower engine very favorably. How will he prove himself on the A8? On the technical side, I can assume that there will be no complaints. Its traction and dynamic characteristics are quite enough even for such a car as the A8 Long, especially since, thanks to the all-aluminum body, its curb weight was kept within two tons. The question is different - will six cylinders be enough to maintain the proper reputation of the person sitting in the back seat? However, along with a six-cylinder diesel engine, this option will be in demand for hotel transfers and other similar delivery tasks.
Miracles of complete sets
And now the silver A8L with the most popular engine in Russia has finally appeared on the site. We are distributing roles with the well-known radio journalist Georgy Khachaturov. Lead me first. I take a seat at the wheel. I lightly slam the door... And I slam it again in surprise, harder - the door did not close on the first attempt, and there is no electric door closer that is usual on cars of this class. By default, it is attached only to the W12 engine, and in all other versions it is an option.
In budget trim levels, a one-piece sofa with a folding armrest is installed at the back, accommodating climate control, music, seat adjustments, as well as pockets for small items and other useful things.
The features of standard configurations were generally surprising. For example, it suddenly turned out that in equipping with all sorts of status gizmos, our gasoline V8 is inferior to diesel! There are no rear-seat multimedia system monitors in the seatbacks, no folding desk, no folding passenger footrests, no system that folds the right front seat for the sake of the spaciousness of the boss sitting behind ... By the standards of the upper class, to which this car certainly belongs, it - "empty". And who, you ask, needs one? Of course, everything missing can be re-ordered. Buyers will do just that. That's just the logic of the distribution of options is not clear.
Elongation
If you don’t look back from the driver’s seat, it’s difficult to feel the difference between the long wheelbase and the standard. The driver's space in all new A8 is organized in the same way. Depending on the configuration, only finishing materials and colors differ. Controls, seats, front panel, console - everything is expected to be comfortable, expensive and stylish, but without liberties. The only frilly detail is the automatic transmission selector knob. But it is so successfully inscribed in the surrounding strict space that it becomes its visual center. Interior elements do not distract, and the design does not become boring over time.
Outside, by the way, you also can’t tell from all angles what kind of car is in front of you: the length of the base is uniquely determined only in profile - by the proportions of the body and the size of the back door. At the same time, the extra centimeters did not violate the design harmony. The elongated car turned out beautiful, which is not always the case. On the whole Audi remained true to itself: the strict classics of the A8 forms were repeated in a new look. The design of this model has already been actively discussed a couple of months ago, after the premiere of the standard version. Personally, I liked it, except that the LED headlights, which were beautiful in themselves, seemed to have fallen out of the general protocol style - something like a tie with parrots at a reception at the German Chancellor. Cheerfully so, revitalizes, but out of place.
The main external difference between A8Long and just A8 is the length of the rear doors. And the rising curtains on the rear windows not only cover passengers from prying eyes, but simply create comfort in the cabin.
Electronic mind
The main feature of the updated MMI is a touch panel that recognizes letters written on it with a finger.
While I indulged in thoughts about design, we raced along the autobahn. Zhora was downloading something from the Internet, connecting the laptop to the MMI on-board multimedia system, and I was driving, periodically glancing at the large screen that had come out of the “torpedo”. There, the navigation system "led" us on Google Earth satellite imagery, and I could survey the surroundings from above. The system warned about current speed limits and possible traffic jams. The bandwidth of the Internet channel was enough for both of us. It turned out to be insufficient only for communicating with the outside world via Skype. 
Several times there were rather long tunnels in which the Internet broadcast was interrupted. Navigation continued to work properly and even correctly guessed the exit from the tunnel if there were forks in it. While there is a connection, MMI loads a fairly large piece of the map of the surrounding earth's surface, which is usually enough to travel underground. The system receives the speed of movement in the absence of visible satellites from the speedometer sensor, it recognizes turns by the difference in the angular speed of the front wheels through the ESP. It remains only to calculate ... Will the system work where there is no Internet coverage at all? Will. But without satellite imagery, according to the usual vector map stored in memory. The main thing is that the GPS satellites send signals regularly.
The main feature of the updated MMI is a touch panel that recognizes letters written on it with a finger. Moreover, she understands not only the Latin script, but also the Cyrillic alphabet. You can not be distracted by the buttons, setting the destination to the navigator. It was then that I realized why the automatic transmission selector has such an unconventional shape. This is a wrist rest to write comfortably! It's really comfortable to write. And the rest of the multimedia interface at first glance seems clear and friendly. But still, the electronic system, on which literally all the user settings of the car are tied, including the sound of music, the distribution of "weather" in the cabin, the stiffness of the suspension and the sharpness of the steering, distracts attention quite well on the go.
Driving Arsenal
Why haven't I written about the behavior of the car on the road yet? And what to write about him - everything is in order with him. It would be strange if an all-wheel drive executive sedan with a more than three-meter base on the ideal pavement of German highways would cause a desire to paint handling features in detail. As you would expect in this case, directional and trajectory stability is at a height, the suspension works out the road clearly and, in general, the car is exceptionally obedient.
The on-board system allows you to change the car settings on the go: air suspension stiffness, gearbox operation mode and steering wheel force. Choosing the optimal settings, I turned on the mode dynamic, as a result of which the car made it clear that it is a car for the driver, no matter what the person sitting behind on the right thinks. However, from his reaction, or rather, its absence, I realized that he did not notice the changes. Although for me it was clear: the car has become more collected, sharp and resilient. The suspension has become more informative, the progressive effort on the steering wheel has especially increased. Perhaps even redundant: driving at a speed well over 60 on a steep loop of the road junction, the steering wheel had to be literally squeezed by its own weight.
A car for the driver, no matter what the person sitting behind on the right thinks.
Among the driver's arsenal, perhaps the most ambiguous impression was made by adaptive cruise control, leading the A8L after another car - up to a stop and a new start. On the one hand, it is convenient in heavy traffic. But on the other hand, who knows what is the level of the driver in the front car? And the driver Audi you always have to take the boss smoothly. And certainly - completely regardless of the driving style of the one who rides in front. With only one exception - while moving in a cortege.
The main thing
To the max
Salon Audi A8 Long in the maximum configuration. Due to the fact that instead of the rear sofa there are two independent chairs with a multifunctional armrest between them, the car in this form becomes a four-seater. In terms of the abundance of adjustments, the rear passenger seats are practically not inferior to the driver's. And in some ways they even surpass it: the driver cannot free up additional legroom for himself by moving everything in front of him even further forward and lowering the special stand. The rear monitors of the multimedia system are noticeably larger than the front ones, while passengers can watch videos or follow the route as they wish.
After lunch, we changed - I took a place in the commander's chair. The designers managed to visually create here a living space separate from the front row, in which one can pleasantly exist even on a very long trip. I had to look for seat adjustments: the obvious key located on the door simply lays out the chair in a kind of half-sleeping place. But something in the mutual arrangement of the back and pillow was not right. Especially during the initial vertical landing.
The central part of the sofa back, folded forward, became a wide armrest that divided the rear space - and in it, along with the climate control, the missing individual adjustments were found. The ride has become quite comfortable. True, at the bus stop, after I opened the door and got out, the chair automatically returned to its original position and I had to adjust it again.
Soon I myself understood why my passenger did not react at all to changes in the car's suspension settings. The chair's own supports very effectively dampen vibrations and shocks that still reach the body. Unlike the driver, the passenger is almost completely devoid of tactile connection with the roadway. At the same time, the mutual addition of the damping effects of the suspension and the chair does not at all lead to a mismatch of the rider's vestibular apparatus.
In search of new features of the car and its systems, I got to the massage function, which is equipped with all four seats. Note that for the first time in the entire class, this function became available for a pilot with a navigator only here. In this case, all modes for all four are the same.
After returning the car, I thought about the market prospects of the new A8L in our country. The flagship that has not been updated for a long time Audi quite strongly lost its position against the background of fellow countrymen. Now, with the launch of a new generation, Audi will return these positions, and primarily due to the "seven" bmw. At first, the latter will have to make a lot of room: the market for executive sedans is limited and Audi With bmw share a niche. The main share of these cars falls on buyers who, according to their position, are already entitled to a personal car with a driver, but they have not yet made it to the first person. The first must ride Mercedes. Although Audi turned out to be a very decent car.
At the end of November 2009, at the Design Miami exhibition in the USA, Audi officially introduced its new third-generation Audi A8 flagship sedan in the new D4 body. The car has grown a little, compared to its predecessor - its dimensions have increased by 75 mm in length (up to 5137) and 55 mm in width (up to 1949). At the same time, it became lower by 16 millimeters (1,460).
The body of the new Audi A8 2016-2017 is completely made of aluminum, its torsional rigidity has increased by 24%. At the same time, the mass of the car remained the same as that of the previous G8, although it is still lower than that of the main competitors in the face and.
Options and prices Audi A8 2017
AT8 - 8-speed automatic, quattro - four-wheel drive, Long - extended
The design of the new Audi A8 sedan (D4) is made in the style of the latest innovations from Ingolstadt - the A5 Coupe and A5 Sportback models. Rupert Stadler, chairman of the board of directors of Audi AG, said at the presentation: "The new Audi A8 is the sportiest sedan in its class."
The new A8 debuted with a 4.2-liter eight-cylinder engine producing 372 hp. developing a maximum torque of 445 Nm at 3,500 rpm. Acceleration to hundreds with such a motor takes 5.7 seconds, and the maximum speed is electronically limited at around 250 km / h. Later, the line of power units was replenished with both more modest motors and much more powerful versions.
The new 8-speed automatic transmission of the German company ZF transmits torque to all wheels through the Torsen center differential, which distributes it in a ratio of 40:60 in favor of the rear wheels. From now on, all versions of the Audi A8, with the exception of the hybrid, have become all-wheel drive.
The new Audi A8 2015 debuted a new generation MMI multimedia system with a touchpad that learned to recognize letters and numbers, so that the driver can enter a location name for the navigation system or dial a phone number.
Also on the sedan is now fully LED optics, as well as many security systems, including Pre Sense accident warning systems, pedestrian recognition, night vision system, adaptive cruise control, etc.
At the moment, the base for the Audi A8 (D4) is a 3.0-liter diesel engine with a capacity of 250 hp, which is paired with a 351-horsepower heavy-duty engine with a working volume of 4.1 liters. Petrol engines are represented by three- and four-liter units with a capacity of 290 and 420 forces, respectively. And at the top of the range is the mighty 6.3 W12 with a return of 500 “horses”.
Sales of the Audi A8 D4 in Russia began in March 2010, and in April of the same year they introduced an extended version of the Audi A8 Long. The price of the new Audi A8 2019 varies from 5,745,000 to 9,475,000 rubles.
Updated sedan Audi A8
The updated Audi A8 sedan debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2013, but the German automaker distributed photos and details about its flagship model in mid-August.
So, the restyled Audi A8 (2015-2016) got a different grille, a more embossed hood, retouched bumpers and fully LED front and rear lighting. At the same time, for a surcharge, cars can be equipped with head optics with Audi Matrix LED technology.
Such headlights are able to automatically adjust the light beam, depending on various conditions. For example, they illuminate road signs, people on the side of the road, do not dazzle oncoming drivers at night and direct the beam of light in the direction of the turn in advance, receiving information about the road from the optional Navigation Plus navigation system.
The Audi A8 D4 is now available in twelve exterior finishes, five of which are completely new. For interior decoration, the list of available materials and color schemes has been expanded, the front seats can be equipped with a ventilation and massage system, and the rear seats have an optional adjustable footrest.
Other options include four-zone climate control, a Bang & Olufsen infotainment system with a DVD player and two rear-seat monitors, a head-up display and an upgraded night vision system. The extended version of the Audi A8 L can be equipped with a continuous center console running from the front panel to the rear sofa.
As for the line of power units for the updated Audi A8 in a new body, most of them have become more powerful and more economical. Now the 3.0-liter petrol engine produces 310 horsepower instead of 290, and the 4.0-liter twin-turbo develops 435 "horses" against 420 before.
The three-liter turbodiesel added 8 “horses” (up to 258 hp), and the 4.2-liter engine boasts a return of 385 hp. (before 350). The top 6.3-liter W12 power unit remained with its 500 “horses”, and the updated “charged” sedan is still equipped with a 520 horsepower engine.
Fuel economy Audi A8 2016 contributed to the reduction in weight of the sedan. So, for example, the basic modification with a standard wheelbase now weighs 1,830 kg, which is 85 kg lighter than the pre-styling version.
On the Russian market, both conventional and long-wheelbase modifications of a sedan with all-wheel drive are available. The price of the new Audi A8 2019 started from 5,300,000 rubles per car with a 250-horsepower diesel engine (today diesel modifications are not supplied to us). A car with a 3.0-liter gasoline engine of 310 forces costs at least 5,757,000 rubles. And for the 4.0 TFSI modification, dealers ask from 6,745,000 rubles. The top version with the W12 engine is estimated at 9,475,000 rubles.
New long flagship "Audi" has finally reached Russia.
When I asked why it took so long to wait for his arrival, the company replied that in the spring by autumn. Indeed, yesterday, on the last day of autumn, the New Opera Theater announced the start of sales. A long black and white Audi A8, a Russian symphony orchestra and the German band Bauhouse stood on the stage. Music united everyone in the hall. So audiosymphony.
The head of the Bauhaus, Klements Witkowski, told me that his art is independent, and it was not he who came to Audi, but Audi came to him. Such is the harmony.
Such cars on the roads of Europe - like fingers on the hands. In the Old World it is not very customary to flaunt wealth, and this Audi screams - “I am the most chic!”. The profile immediately reveals a wheelbase increased by 130 mm, and the W12 nameplates indicate the presence of a top-end 12-cylinder engine under the hood. But in some countries, modesty is not in fashion, so the main markets for the A8 L c W12 are traditionally China, the USA and ... that's right - Russia.
The standard equipment of the W12 includes, among other things, a panoramic roof.
So, how is the car different from the usual short version? To answer this question, it’s enough not to even sit down, but simply to look at the back sofa, preferably in the dark. This makes it easier to evaluate the spatial lighting Ambient lighting. LEDs and optical fiber highlight certain parts of the cabin, creating an unusual effect: the central panel seems to float in space. Even the shade of the backlight can be chosen to suit your mood: ivory, polar, ruby / polar, as well as adjust the brightness in four zones.
The size of the central display has been increased to 7 inches. This allows you to display information with one main field and two additional separate zones.
Variety is brought in by shades of finishing materials - beige, mocha, granite. Daylight only confirms that you will only find an interior of this level in business aviation. Finishing - natural veneer of birch, ash or wavona. Leather - deer or tanned Naturleder, Valonea, of course, offer artificial alcantara.
All the extra centimeters of length of the A8 L are thrown at the pleasure of the boss - the stock of legroom is huge; the width of the cabin is the largest for cars of its class. The chairs are equipped with electrically adjustable backrest angle, cushion length, lumbar support, headrest height; and there are also four massage programs with three degrees of intensity, ventilation, of course, memory.
But the main difference from competitors is that the front seat folds and turns into a footrest. Now you can even take a nap in the A8 L. Or watch your favorite movie on the 10.2-inch 16mm tilt-adjustable display. The 19 speakers of the Bang & Olufsen sound system provide a sophisticated sound with a total power of 1400 watts. And this is far from the full multimedia capabilities of the A8.
The machine offers not only the highest level of comfort, but also brilliantly plays the role of a mobile office. So far, except for the G8, none of the executive sedans provides high-speed Internet access. A8 is equipped as an option with a WLAN module, which simultaneously works on the Web with eight devices of various types - whether it's a newfangled Apple iPad or a traditional laptop. The connection to the network is established by means of a SIM card in the on-board phone, its maximum speed is 7.2 Mb/s.
Another innovation, so far unattainable for other brands, is a navigation system that loads Google Earth maps. As a result, you get a route drawn from street photographs with a high degree of detail. A search on the net will allow you to find the places you are interested in on the route - from a cigar store to a fitness club.
Behind all these multimedia things, we almost forgot that the A8 L can also drive, and how! Of course, here, too, not without electronics. Audi maintains a clear distance from the vehicle in front, all the way to a complete stop, thanks to active stop & go cruise control. The pre sense system, in extreme cases, will automatically perform emergency braking. The night vision function helps to notice pedestrians, lane assist keeps the car within its lane. Finally, the A8 itself reads road signs from the speed limit and slows down.
Each headlight uses 76 LEDs designed to last the life of the car. Farah has no moving parts.
The smoothness of the ride is managed by an adaptive air suspension with the possibility of individual settings, and an active rear differential is implanted into the Quattro hollow drive. Therefore, the management of a long "eight" brings almost more pleasure than rest in the second row.
Top version W12 with 500 hp leaves no chance for the vast majority of neighbors on the autobahn, while everything happens smoothly, without a hysterical exhaust scream or the noise of the oncoming wind. The insane traction of the engine allows you to accelerate from city speeds to highway speeds in a matter of seconds, and the first hundred is given to the sedan in just 4.7 seconds.
The average fuel consumption of the W12 has improved by 1.2 liters / 100 km or 9% compared to the previous version of this 450 hp engine. With. working volume of 6.0 l.
Stop acceleration under the force of only an electronic limiter at 250 km / h. According to rumors from the sidelines, this is far from the limit for the W12, in theory, the sedan is able to overcome the 300 km / h line. Note that the average fuel consumption of the car is only 12.4 liters - significantly less than the V12 of competitors. Of course, if the environment and fuel costs come first for you, it’s better to moderate your appetite: Audi offers four more engines for the A8 L: two petrol 3.0 TFSI and 4.2 TSI (265 and 372 hp .) plus two diesels 3.0 TDI and 4.2 TDI (250 and 350 hp). The least powerful engine requires only 6.6 liters of “heavy” fuel, while accelerating to 100 km / h in 6.2 seconds. A decade ago, it was hard to imagine that an all-wheel drive sedan with a length of 5267 mm and a weight of about 2 tons could demonstrate such a modest appetite. The secret is not only in the motors, but in the use of the latest 8-speed automatic Tiptronic, as well as excellent aerodynamics (Сх=0.26).
Body A8 L (Audi Space Frame, ASF) is made of aluminum and weighs 40% less than steel. When creating it, 13 different types of aluminum were used.
This is how Audi turned out a car - spacious, quiet, fast, safe and economical. A car with a capital, the first letter of the alphabet. And the first in terms of innovation.
After listening to a wonderful concert against the backdrop of moving shots from the production of machines, I remembered that the production theme was masterfully sung in art by Soviet documentary filmmakers Dziga Vertov and Esfir Shub. The Audi A8 Long is another good example to follow.
Vladimir Larionov, director of the Audi Center Varshavka, sat next to me at the concert. Here is his comment (in the photo he is with his son - a fan of fast cars):
“I am not one of those people who can fully enjoy all the charms of a car of this model, however, on duty, I will have to communicate more than once with its potential customers and owners. The car is of genuine interest, and it makes no sense to list all its innovations and advantages. They are quite complete and well presented in the article. Ignoring all the visible and invisible advantages, I think that the demand will be very limited. Why? The first reason is the very high cost. But such a car can not be cheap!
Nameplate W12 and that says it all! It's like a pass to a private club. This modification is expected, but most of all, in order to admire and compare with competitors. I believe that compared to the previous model, the current Audi A8L W12 will find fewer buyers, simply because they themselves have changed. The market is waiting for a diesel version and engines of smaller power and smaller volume. Yes, in Russia they learn to count money. And customers who previously could afford such cars are increasingly asking the question: “Is it necessary? Maybe 3.0 TDI is better without "nameplates"?
Or maybe wait for the new S8? What do you think?”
The cost of AUDI A8 Long models for the client will be:
- 4H20VA – Audi A8D4 NWB 3.0 TFSI 213kW Tiptronic quattro – 3’750’000 RUR
- 4H80VA – Audi A8D4 LWB 3.0 TFSI 213kW Tiptronic quattro – 3’800’000 RUR
- 4H20DA – Audi A8D4 NWB 3.0 TDI 184kW Tiptronic quattro – 3’750’000 RUR
- 4H80DA – Audi A8D4 LWB 3.0 TDI 184kW Tiptronic quattro – 3’800’000 RUR
- 4H80AA – Audi A8D4 LWB 4.2 FSI 273kW Tiptronic quattro – 4’550’000 RUR
Specifications Audi A8 L
The third generation of the model, known since 2004. In the long wheelbase version entered the market this fall.| 6.3 l - 500 hp gasoline, direct injection. | |
| Body, weight | sedan, 4 doors, 5 (4) seats, 1885 - 2005 kg. |
| Engine | 12 cylinders in 4 rows, 86 x 90 mm, 6299 cm3, compression ratio, 11.8:1, 368 kW/500 hp at 6200 rpm, 625 Nm at 4750 rpm, gasoline with o.ch. 95. |
| Engine design | 4 valves per cylinder, four overhead camshafts, chain drive, direct injection. |
| Transmission | permanent four-wheel drive, 8-speed automatic, gear ratios: I 4.7, II 3.1 III 2.1 IV 1.6 V 1.3 VI 1.0 VII 0.8 VIII 0.7 ZX 3.3, main gear 3.2. |
| Chassis | load-bearing body; front and rear pneumatic struts, levers, anti-roll bar. |
| Chassis | ventilated disc brakes, front disc diameter 400 mm, rear 356 mm, hand brake on the rear wheels, ABS, ESP, EBD steering rack, power steering, tank 90 l, tires 225/45R19. |
| Dimensions | base 3122 mm, track 1644/1635 mm, trunk volume 510 l, length 5267 mm, width 1949 mm, height 1471 mm. |
| Characteristics | top speed 250 km/h, acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, fuel consumption 18.2/9.0/12.4 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions 290 g/km. |
So let's take a look today, in my opinion, one of the most interesting Audi A8 L cars with the LWB (Long WheelBase) abbreviation, which means an increased base of valuable 13 centimeters, intended primarily for rear passengers.
Given the purpose of this car, I think it is worth considering the second row of passenger seats in more detail.
Recognizing this car is quite simple, you just have to look at the enlarged tailgate. The appearance of the Audi A8 L is quite interesting. For example, let's look at the headlights. On the base model, one row of diode lights is installed, and the turn signal is placed in the lower part. On the top models, there are already two strands of LED lights, and they glow with a dead white color. But it is worth activating the turn signal, as one of these threads begins to glow yellow.
The front grille proposed at the time has become even larger and more expressive.
The task before the designers, lengthening this car, was probably not an easy one. The fact is that a car with a long base looks rather cumbersome. Here it was avoided. Look at the photo how harmoniously the body of the long version of the Audi A8 Long looks.
Well, I think it's enough to talk about the external design, let's better move to the salon and look around there more closely. The steering column, of course, can be adjusted for both reach and tilt. In order to activate the MMI system display, which has become much more contrasting and larger, it is necessary to press the Start/Stop button. By the way, this is quite an interesting system, including 3G and Wifi.
Moreover, the car, being in the city, scans the surrounding space, connecting to free Internet sources. The navigation itself now uses Google maps, which makes it quite interesting and more convenient, since all the shooting comes from a satellite. All information is duplicated on the central display, which has become even larger, since the instruments of the tachometer and speedometer have moved to the sides. All information is displayed in 3D.
The front seats, even in the basic configuration, are equipped with an electric drive with many adjustments. In the more expensive Audi A8 L, rear row adjustment is also available. The gear lever selector, which has become lower, is very well thought out.
There is a rather interesting adjustment of the sport mode and drive mode. The sport mode immediately changes the engine management program, gas pedal control and the mode of the box. In order to activate it, just pull the lever towards you. But you won’t be able to switch with it, since there are paddle shifters for this, which allow you to do this. Moreover, as on previous Audi A8 models, there is a very convenient system. For example, if you do not shift gears on your own for 20 seconds, the car automatically switches to sport or drive mode.
The engine displacement of the Audi A8 Long is 3 liters, the power is 250 horsepower, the torque is 420 Nm. Acceleration to hundreds is possible in 6.2 seconds, and the maximum speed is limited to 250 km / h. The average fuel consumption is 9.3 l / 100 km.
The dimensions of the car are quite impressive: weight 1880 kg, length 5267 mm, width 1949 mm, height 1471 mm, trunk volume 510 liters.
Despite the large overall dimensions of the Audi A8 Long, driving it even in a busy city is quite simple. The larger rear-view mirrors make it very easy to see how you fit in or corner. Moreover, the system notifying that some cars are in the dead zone works quite well both in the city and on the highway.
Thanks to the air suspension that comes as standard, it is possible to select any mode, even on the move. If we talk about fuel economy, then today any European car manufacturer is trying to supply its vehicle with a Start / Stop system.
Speaking of driving on the highway, then the car will show itself from the best side. The dynamics of even a 250-horsepower diesel unit is quite enough. But in sport mode, the eight-speed automatic transmission sometimes has some pretty strong transmission shocks, and this can happen when shifting gears sharply. If we take the previous six-speed gearbox, then this was not observed there.
Let's finally talk about rear passenger space as we're looking at the long-wheelbase Audi A8 L.
The most important thing for cars in this segment is the comfort of the rear passenger. Getting your knees to the back of the front seat is simply not possible. The location of the seat, its design, the design of the door handle, everything is done with dignity. The door blind and rear blind controls are now located on the door panel. Sitting in the back, even in a winter hat, you are unlikely to reach the ceiling with your head. Even if you stretch out on the seat, you are unlikely to reach the back of the front with your feet, this is the comfort of a long wheelbase.
It will be quite difficult for the three of us to travel from behind, since the rear seat stampings are made clearly for two passengers. The backrest for the third seater is more like an armrest.
In addition to standard heating and ventilation, all chairs can be equipped with a back massage system. Rear passengers can watch movies or listen to music as they wish, without disturbing each other. You can also use the Internet and Google online services using your Bluetooth car phone. The high-speed communication module receives images and information from the Google application, combining them with the current route and navigation system data.
In addition to the multimedia system, excellent acoustics are also offered.
Summing up, only one thing can be said - executive sedans have received a worthy competitor. Audi A8 Long can definitely be called a breakthrough for the German company.
Other pictures of Audi A8 Long
