GWJamaica

The launch of the redesigned 2011 Audi A8 – the sportiest sedan of the luxury class sets new standards – has been pushed back to the Detroit auto show next January, but the car is ready.

In character with Audi’s brand image, the A8 has a sharp shoulder line that drops down towards the rear, the lighting units look high-tech inside as well, with both xenon and LED elements. Their shape displays a distinct styling language, unlike the taillights, which, while tastefully executed with the latest LED technology, still closely resemble those of the A4 and A5. It is mirrored by a second, similarly executed line on the lower doors that leads to the rear bumper. Its elegantly styled body with the Audi Space Frame (ASF) is aluminum, the engines are powerful and highly efficient, and the power transmission and running gear combine dynamics with convenience.

The outer skin of the new Audi A8 conveys homogeneity, as if modeled from a full volume. A coupe-like roof line lets the silhouette flow; sculptured surfaces conveying calmness and prestige contrast with sharp lines. The new A8 underscores the leading position maintained by Audi in the field of automotive design. Representing the cutting edge in many innovative technologies, the Audi A8 indicates this role through new and progressive design elements.

Under the hood of the 2011Audi A8 is a 4.2-liter FSI V8 engine capable of outputting 372 horsepower and generate a maximum of 328.22 lb-ft torque at 3,500 rpm. Coupled with the FSI V8 is a new eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission with manual mode. Manual gear selection is available via steering wheel rockers or by using the regular gear selection lever. The Audi A8 accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds, with the propulsion ending at the electronically controlled top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph). The engine has intelligent elements from Audi’s modular efficiency system on board. During deceleration the recuperation system converts the kinetic energy to electric power, which is buffered in the battery. The A8 also features Audi Braking Guard to warn drivers of potential impacts, as well as automatic emergency braking in the event of an unavoidable accident to minimize impact.

The A8’s multimedia interface (MMI) combines the standard (in the U.S.) navigation system with a touchpad. MMI touch enables the driver to control many functions intuitively such as inputting the navigation destination by writing the letters on the pad with the touch of a finger. The MMI system can recognize complex scenarios and make anticipatory decisions to assist the driver. The new technologies include a night vision assist with marking of detected pedestrians, the Audi pre-sense safety system, as well as a speed limit display.

Google Earth Navigation

In order to make the addition of web-based Google Earth possible, Audi will be turning the all-new A8 into a mobile Wi-Fi connection via high-speed cellular connection. This connection will allow the vehicle to download the data and images directly to the vehicle real-time.

Jens Redmer and Weiland Holfielder of Google Germany explained in a blog post the many features of this system beyond simply downloading destinations. This system will display 3D satellite images, topographic details and Wikipedia tags and Panaramio photographs of popular tourist locations.

Unlike DVD or hard-drive based navigation systems, all features and content in the Google Earth navigation system will be capable of being updated online.

[View with PicLens]

12345►

At a glance
The new Audi A8

Body

• Lightweight and yet ultra-strong aluminum body with ASF design
• Flowing design, full LED headlights on request

Interior and controls

• Luxurious interior with newly developed, spacious styling
• Craftsman-level workmanship, emotionally charged interior lighting
• Advanced MMI operating system, MMI touch navigation system with pioneering operating concept
• Seats with optional ventilation and massage functions, luxurious individual rear seats optional

Safety

• New Audi pre sense safety system for avoiding accidents and for minimizing their consequences

Infotainment and driver assistance systems

• Navigation system of the next generation closely networked with the assistance systems; high-end audio systems and online services
• Night vision assistant with pedestrian marking, adaptive cruise control with stop & go feature and advanced driver assistance systems

Drivetrain

• One gasoline engine, with direct fuel injection and 273 kW (372 hp)
• Consumption improved by 15 percent with enhanced performance
• New 8-speed tiptronic as standard, shift-by-wire control
• Standard quattro all-wheel drive, optional sport differential

Chassis

• Lightweight wheel suspension, balanced axle load distribution
• Audi drive select driving dynamic system including standard adaptive air suspension and adaptive damping, optional dynamic steering