Ch-Ch-Changes: 2008 Audi A8

Audi says the new 2008 Audi A8 features “major enhancements.” We won’t know for sure if that’s true until we drive it, but the most intriguing thing about the A8 is the fact that the company says it has enhanced the steering to offer more driver feedback, making the A8 a bit sportier. The suspension and sound-deadening also see gains.

We’d take those upgrades, but there will also be a new engine — a direct-injection six-cylinder that’s expected to return decent mileage with a 0-62 mph time under 8 seconds. We wonder if this new engine choice — presumably it’ll make for a lower entry price, currently at $68,900 — will help sales in the U.S. Most buyers of large premium sedans prefer V-8 power to fuel efficiency, even in these gas-conscious times. If they do buy it, will that take sales away from the A6?

The A8 will still be available with its current base V-8 engine, and high-performance W12 S8 models will also return in 2008.