Overview of the Audi A8 D4 4.2 FSI Quattro
The Audi A8 D4 4.2 FSI Quattro is a full-size luxury sedan produced from 2010 to 2018. It is powered by a 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine that produces 372 horsepower and 328 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. The Quattro all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction and stability on various road surfaces.
Key Features
- Engine: 4.2-liter FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) V8 engine with a high-strength aluminum block and cylinder head
- Transmission: Eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with manual shifting capabilities
- Drive Type: Quattro all-wheel-drive system with a self-locking center differential and an electronic rear differential lock
- Interior: Luxurious interior with premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof
- Safety Features: Six airbags, including side and curtain airbags, as well as advanced safety features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Dimensions:
- Length: 5,033 mm (198.5 in)
- Width: 1,937 mm (76.3 in)
- Height: 1,475 mm (58.1 in)
- Wheelbase: 2,924 mm (115 in)
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Exceptional performance with the V8 engine
- Smooth and quiet ride quality
- Luxurious interior with premium materials
- Advanced safety features
- Quattro all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability
- Cons:
- Fuel economy is not exceptional, especially when driven aggressively
- Some owners have reported issues with the eight-speed transmission shifting smoothly
- Higher maintenance costs due to complex electronic systems
Performance
The Audi A8 D4 4.2 FSI Quattro is a performance-oriented luxury sedan that offers impressive acceleration and handling capabilities.
- 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h): 5.7 seconds
- Quarter mile: 14.2 seconds @ 98 mph (157 km/h)
- Top Speed: 155 mph (250 km/h) electronically limited
Fuel Economy
The Audi A8 D4 4.2 FSI Quattro has a somewhat disappointing fuel economy, especially when driven aggressively.
- City: 12-15 mpg (19-20 km/l)
- Highway: 18-22 mpg (26-33 km/l)
- Combined: 14-18 mpg (20-27 km/l)
Interior and Comfort
The interior of the Audi A8 D4 4.2 FSI Quattro is luxurious and well-appointed, with premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
- Front Seats: Heated and ventilated, with massage and lumbar support
- Rear Seats: Spacious and comfortable, with individual climate control
- Infotainment: Audi's MMI navigation plus system with an 8-inch touchscreen display and a Bang & Olufsen sound system
Safety Features
The Audi A8 D4 4.2 FSI Quattro is equipped with advanced safety features to protect occupants in the event of an accident.
- Airbags: Six airbags, including side and curtain airbags
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps prevent skidding and loss of traction
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Quickly applies and releases brake pressure to maintain control during hard braking
Maintenance Costs
The Audi A8 D4 4.2 FSI Quattro has a higher maintenance cost due to its complex electronic systems.
- Oil Change: Regular oil changes are recommended every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km)
- Tire Replacement: Tire life is influenced by driving habits and road conditions; replacement intervals vary between 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km)
Comparison to Other Models
The Audi A8 D4 4.2 FSI Quattro competes in the full-size luxury sedan segment with other notable models like the BMW 750i and Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
- Audi A8 D4 4.2 FSI Quattro: Offers exceptional performance, smooth ride quality, and luxurious interior
- BMW 750i: Provides slightly better fuel economy, a more efficient engine, and advanced safety features
- Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Boasts an even more luxurious interior, advanced driver assistance systems, and improved fuel economy
Conclusion
The Audi A8 D4 4.2 FSI Quattro is a performance-oriented luxury sedan that offers exceptional acceleration and handling capabilities. While it has some drawbacks like higher maintenance costs and less-than-excellent fuel economy, its luxurious interior, smooth ride quality, and advanced safety features make it an attractive option for those seeking a premium driving experience.