Audi A8 Aluminium Sports Limousine

Friday June 27, 2003

Audi Australia will launch the new A8 sports limousine on 20th August 2003, following confirmed production for the company's first 50 locally-specified units.

A direct challenge to the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the sporty A8 will be available in two V8 variants, both with quattro all-wheel-drive and Audi's third generation aluminium bodyshell construction.

The Audi A8 3.7-litre quattro will be priced at AUS$173,900 with a tag of AUS$206,900 attached to the 4.2-litre model.

Audi's managing director, Graham Hardy, says the company expects to sell around 70 units in 2003, with the full year 2004 realising around 100 units ­ a four-fold increase in sales over its predecessor.

The long list of standard features on the A8 includes a Multi-Media Interface (MMI); Adaptive Air Suspension; Electronic Stabilisation Program with anti-slip regulation; servotronic speed-sensitive power steering; Advanced Front-Lighting System; Audi's Advanced Key system; electric seats with leather upholstery; personalised memory system for driver and front passenger incorporating exterior mirrors, electric steering column, seat belt height and head restraints; multifunction steering wheel with Tiptronic paddles; DVD-based navigation system and active front head restraints.