The S8 is the performance variant of Audi’s flagship A8 full-size sedan. Though it’s four cylinders short of the 12-cylinder A8 W12, the S8’s twin-turbo V-8 makes more power with 520 horsepower on tap. The S8 is based on the regular-length A8, not the extended-wheelbase A8 L. Competitors include the Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG and Jaguar XJ SuperSport. New for 2014 Two previously optional safety features are now standard on the S8: a blind spot warning system and Audi Pre Sense Rear, which closes the windows and tightens the seat belts when a collision from the rear is imminent. Exterior Highlights
Aluminum body panels
21-inch alloy wheels
LED headlights
LED taillights
Quad exhaust tips
Power trunk lid
Soft-closing doors
Adaptive air suspension
Available solar sunroof
Interior Highlights
Leather upholstery with contrast diamond stitching
Heated and ventilated front seats with massage function
Four-zone automatic air conditioning
Power sunshades for rear side windows and rear window
Navigation system that recognizes handwriting
Bose surround-sound stereo with iPod integration
Bluetooth connectivity
Available Bang & Olufsen premium stereo
Available rear entertainment system with dual 10-inch screens
Under the Hood
520-hp, twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine
Eight-speed automatic transmission
Zero to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds, according to Audi
All-wheel drive
Audi Drive Select adjusts engine, transmission, steering and suspension response
Safety Features
Front and rear side-impact airbags
Side curtain airbags
Front knee airbags
Antilock brakes with 15.7-inch front discs, 14-inch rear discs
