Audi A8L: First Drive

It takes more than just Maslow's Theory of Hierarchy to explain the 'Prestige' segment. It takes more than Newton's laws of Motion to define the sheer exhilaration of linear propulsion. However, it took just a nanosecond for the Audi A8L to convince Vikram Gour that this sedan is fitted with superpowers!

It's tough to take on the best in the world and it is definitely a lot harder to stake claim to the numero uno position, especially when you happen to be a new product in the market, however, Audi India is leaving no stone unturned when it comes to their super sized sedan, the all new Audi A8L, where ‘L’ stands for the long wheelbase version. This 5.27 meter long luxury barge is a literal translation of the very essence that embodies Audi and it promises to redefine the way we look at luxury cars.

At a glance, the A8L encompasses the typical Audi design cues of simplistic yet timeless lines. It’s a toned body design where the light weight aluminum is exquisitely crafted to create a classic and elegant stance. Stretched across the famed Audi Space Frame, the exterior package is subtle yet has hints of a powerful and purposeful machine. Despite the long wheelbase, Audi has crafted the A8L with a coupe like roofline and a balanced treatment to create an aura of power. This is further accentuated by the vehicle’s profile that gives the image of thrusting forward. All this has been brought about by an interplay between surfaces and lines in typical Audi fashion. There is no bling value, cheap gimmicks or unnecessary design lines on the A8L for this is a car that has been crafted to suit those who believe in finesse that is above such standards. ‘Cultivated Style’ is possibly the best coined term to distinguish this elite sedan from the rest. 

Complimenting the exterior bodywork are elements that work towards bringing out the car’s understated yet attitude loaded intent. Topping the list are the headlights which have received Audi’s signature LED treatment and give the car its unmistakable appearance head on. The single frame radiator grille that is flanked by the headlights is another Audi trademark. It not only highlights the luxury appeal thanks to the chrome treatment but also aids in visual appeal for it offers a sense of width to the design. At the rear, the LEDs do their duty in the trapezoidal taillights which come fitted with 72 light emitting diodes in order for optimal visibility. Incidentally, the LEDs used on the Audi A8L are designed for the life of the vehicle! Completing the touch of class to the exterior package are the large 18 inch alloys that work their magic in emphasizing the powerful and sporty nature that this super sedan possesses.

Open the doors of the A8L and you are greeted by a high-tech lounge on wheels. Each and every material on the car has been selected with the utmost care and that includes choosing the single piece of wood that will finally be crafted into the dashboard insert as well as door inserts. One can’t complain about the fit and finish which is uber exquisite. The stalks, various controls, quality and feel of the panels and linings, all work to pamper you in plush luxury. Thanks to the large wheelbase there is oodles of space inside the sedan and you will be hard-pressed to find someone complaining about legroom or even headroom for that matter. The design element that prevails on the A8L is the fact that the interiors have been built around the passenger. Audi refers to this design element as ‘wraparound’ and it literally lives up to that purpose for once you are inside the car, you are literally transported to a whole new world where everything feels perfect and every accessory you can imagine is available. 

The front seats are crafted to perfection and one can opt for the deluxe seats that offer heating and cooling in addition to a built in five program pneumatic massage system! That’s right, this car can give you a massage while you drive, but if you thought that was taking it a bit too far then the A8L tops its own feature with the rear seats-after all, its in the rear where all the action is in the first place! The rear seats are a work of art in themselves.

Crafted to offer precision comfort a customer can opt for the ultimate package wherein a simple button pushes the front driver seat forward, tips the headrest down, brings up the LCD screen, electronically folds out a foot rest and at the same time brings the rear seat into a more laid back comfortable position. With all the in-car entertainment controls at your disposal, it’s easy to just unwind in the rear seat of the A8L as your chauffeur deals with the nuances of traffic. Further to this, the rear seats have a built-in massage system and should you feel the need to work, there is a neat table that also folds out for your convenience. Overall, the A8L is a treat to the senses with everything present to pamper you in each and every way-be it the Bang & Olufsen sound system, the Multi Media Information system with a touchpad, the numerous buttons to control the exact temperature and level of airflow from the A/C vents in your direction-its all about the ultimate indulgence.

With such a strong focus on passenger comfort and convenience, one might think that Audi skimped out on the performance pedigree, but such is not the case. As much as the A8L is a brilliant car to be driven around in, it also is an engaging vehicle to drive.