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• Audi's new S8 sedan is now available in South Africa.
• The car is powered by a V8 petrol engine that produces 420kW.
• Standout features on the S8 include predictive suspension.
• For more motoring stories, go to Wheels24
Audi South Africa expanded its local portfolio with the introduction of the new S8. Powered by a 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine, the car makes do with 420kW and 800Nm, allowing the luxury sports saloon to sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds. Audi also added a mild hybrid system (MHEV) to the package, which saves up to 0.8-litres/100km compared to a conventional drivetrain.
Audi says that every detail of the new S8 reflects its character as a sporty luxury model. One highlight is the standard individually contoured comfort sports seats. These feature wide-ranging power adjustment, pneumatically adjustable side bolsters, and separate three-stage heating for each seat. The seats are also available with ventilation in the front (standard) and massage function (optional). Upholstery is available in the top leather grade of Valcona.
The S8 also boats many driver assistance systems. According to Audi, the optional adaptive cruise control with speed limiter, efficiency assist, swerve assist and turn assist combines key functions to allow for a comprehensive safety offering. Intelligent park assist, 360° camera and head-up display are a few of the key standard safety equipment in the new S8.
Predictive suspension
The new S8 comes standard with the predictive active suspension. The high-tech system, which works in combination with the air suspension, can lift or push down each wheel separately via electromechanical actuators, says Audi. It is, therefore, possible for the first time to actively control the trim of the body in any driving situation and thus significantly reduce pitch or roll during acceleration or braking. The front camera, which detects more significant road surface irregularities, enables this to be done predictively.
READ: Audi SA is on a product offensive - Here's what locals can expect from Ingolstadt's best
The Audi drive select system offers five profiles from which to choose, including the new "Comfort +" mode. Audi says that it makes even cornering a comfortable experience: The car's body leans into curves by as much as 3-degrees to reduce the lateral acceleration acting on the occupants. In "Dynamic" mode, the S8 turns in precisely.
The maximum roll angle during fast cornering is just roughly 2.5-degrees. With the standard suspension, it is around 5-degrees. The position of the S8's body can be altered even when it is stationary. According to Audi, it is quickly raised by as much as 50mm when the door handle is actuated, making getting into the car easier and more comfortable.
Pricing
The Audi S8 TFSI Quattro retails for R2 484 000 and comes standard with a five-year Audi Freeway Plan.
