The A8 L initially will be offered with the same 372-horsepower V-8 engine that powers the regular A8, but come next spring a 500-hp 12-cylinder engine that’s capable of accelerating the sedan from zero to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds will be offered. All A8s have standard all-wheel drive; a differential that can vary torque distribution between the rear wheels to reduce understeer is optional.
In addition to being longer, the A8 L is minutely taller. The long-wheelbase version hides its size well, though, retaining the eye-pleasing proportions established by the regular-length sedan.
Available features designed to make the trip less taxing for rear passengers include heated and ventilated power-adjustable seats, a center console with a refrigerator and a folding table, a passenger-side massaging seat with a footrest and a backseat entertainment system with two 10.2-inch screens. Now that sounds like the good life to us.
Mike Hanley has more than 20 years of experience reporting on the auto industry. His primary focus is new vehicles, and he's currently a Senior Road Test Editor overseeing expert car reviews and comparison tests. He previously managed Editorial content in the Cars.com Research section.