Slideshow: The 2019 A8 is Coming to the U.S.
U.S. pricing on the all-new 2019 Audi A8 has been released, with an expected gulf between base and fully-opted editions.
Builder Open
Without any fanfare, Audi USA recently unlocked access to the company's online car configurator for the 2019 A8. The all-new A8, due to go on sale this fall, starts at $83,800 for the base model, though that total does not include a $995 destination charge, bring a stripper model, if you can call a full-size flagship luxury sedan that, to just a shade under $85K. The initial A8 models bound for the U.S. will be L model (long-wheelbase) Quattros powered by Audi's 3.0 TFSI V6 engine, though a V8-powered A8 is expected to be available by mid-2019.
Engines
The A8's 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged V6 produces 335 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers power to the sedan's all-wheel-drive system. So-equipped, the A8 will speed to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds and can reach 130 mph before the electronic speed-limiting function kicks in. The optional 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 will give the A8 a shot in the arm with 453 hp and 444 lb-ft of torque and is coupled to the same eight-speed auto gearbox as the V6.
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Hybrid Help
Also common to the both V6 and V8 versions is the A8's 48-volt electrical system, which provides extra juice not only to power the coupe's numerous electric systems, including its electromechanical suspension and infotainment system, but also to assist the conventional internal combustion engine. Power for the high output system is provided by a 10 Ah lithium-ion battery pack located in a special compartment inside the car's trunk, as well as by a belt-driven alternator. The battery-assist arrangement is being referred to as a "mild hybrid."
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Standard Equipment
Among the standard features offered on the 2019 A8 are attractive 19-inch alloy 15-spoke wheels fitted with 255/45 all-season radials. Base models also benefit from Audi's adaptive air suspension, a banging Bang & Olufsen audio system equipped with 3-dimensional sound (isn't all sound 3D?) function, and Audi’s Virtual Cockpit and MMI Navigation Plus functionality.
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Adding Options
From there buyers can add options to their heart's content, including slightly fussy directional-look 20-inch V-branch spoked rims for $1,200, their choice of six Valcona leather upholstery options for $4,250, Audi's Executive Rear Seat Comfort pack priced at $7,550, and a Cold Weather package for $800. The A8's Executive package comes in at $4,150 and includes a heads-up display, 22-way adjustable heated/vented/massaging front seats, a heated steering wheel with paddle shift, and a top-view camera.
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Additional Options
Other available options include Audi's Luxury package, to the tune of $4,250, that consists of features like ambient interior lighting, an Alcantara headliner, and odor-defeating systems. Audi Care is available for $1,179, Audi's Night Vision Assistant with standard pedestrian detection function can be had for $2,300, and the Bang & Olufsen sound system can be upgraded for an extra $5,900. In a long-wheelbase luxury sedan, Rear Seat Connectivity can be vitally important, so Audi offers that bundle for another $3,250. Other notable options include flashy laser headlights—previously only available on special R8 V10 models. A little playing around with the configurator, adding everything in sight, yielded an as-delivered price upwards of $123,000. Audi's flagship with matching flagship price tags—coming soon to a dealer near you.
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For information on maintenance, repairs, and modifications, visit our How-to section in the forum.