2007 Audi S8 Preview

Choices, choices. The Bimmer or the Benz? Everyone and their brother is driving a BMW, and that new S-Class just leaves you feeling flat. Maybe it’s time to consider Audi as an alternative, the company that now offers a 450-horsepower all-wheel-drive sedan that hustles to 60 mph in five seconds, and does so with a bevy of luxury features in tow. Due to hit lots in the fall of 2006, the 2007 Audi S8 adds a generous dose of sport to the brand’s flagship, the A8, with its ten-cylinder engine, specially-tuned adaptive air suspension, 20-inch alloy wheels, and contoured seats cloaked in Valcona leather. And for luxury sport sedan buyers desiring an added touch of exclusivity, may we suggest the S8-specific Daytona Grey pearl finish.

What it is

Poised at the top of its lineup, the 2007 Audi S8 is a capable sport sedan propelled by a 450-horsepower V10 engine, controlled by the brand’s quattro all-wheel-drive and retuned suspension systems, and featuring luxury items like an optional 14-speaker, 1000-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system, intelligent cruise control, and a power closing tailgate.

Why it matters

Although Audi has seen steady sales for the past several years, it remains a relatively small player in the luxury car market, often overshadowed by the likes of BMW and Mercedes-Benz. That’s why a product like the 2007 S8, with its abundance of power, impressive underpinnings, understated yet powerful appearance, and Audi’s reputation for outstanding material and builds quality, is critical if this brand is to remain relevant in a market flooded with exceptional vehicles.

What’s under the hood

Under the hood of the 2007 Audi S8 is a 5.2-liter, 40-valve V10 engine cranking out 450 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 397 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,500 rpm. This 4,277-lb. sport sedan hits 60 mph in only five and is electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. A six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with a Sport mode and shift paddles on the steering wheel is standard. Surprise! The 2007 Audi S8 has a tow rating of 5,000 pounds.

What’s inside

As befits a luxury flagship, the 2007 Audi S8 comes very well equipped. Among the features found on this sedan are heated leather seats with six settings, automatic tilt-down rearview mirrors, a Bose audio system, a card key, four-zone automatic climate control, and Audi’s Multi Media Interface (MMI) with a seven-inch screen. There’s also intelligent cruise control, a multifunction leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a memory system that recognizes the driver with a fingerprint scan.

What it looks like

Love it or hate it, the 2007 S8 wears the Audi family grille, which bears unique badging and sits above and between large air inlets. New LED daytime running lights are lined horizontally next to the bumper. Alloy wheels measuring 20 inches are stuffed into the wheel wells, and aluminum trim is added to the door handles and mirror housings. The rear view includes four oval tailpipes, a lip spoiler, and an S8 badge on the power closing trunk lid.

What Audi says

In describing its “sporty top model of the very highest caliber” Audi says that “the S8 stands for exceptional dynamism, as expressed by its engine, transmission, suspension and design, as well as for exclusiveness and luxury.” In simpler terms, the 2007 Audi S8 will provide amazing power, handling, and comfort in exchange for a big ol’ heap of money.

What we think

A car with luxury that rivals your rich uncle’s home in the hills and has enough power to smoke that snot-nosed kid in the Evo? Sign me up. By the way, I don’t suppose there’s a 360-month lease available, is there? With no money down and free car washes?

When you can buy it

The 450-horsepower, all-wheel-drive 2007 Audi S8 will make its debut during the fall of 2006, a time when Audi dealers will also be welcoming the arrival of the 420-horsepower 2007 S6 sedan.

Photos courtesy of Audi