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Facelifted Audi A8 gains more kit & lower emissions

Offered in standard or Long Wheelbase formats, the latest range features an updated range of engines.

Long Wheelbase versions will continue to be available with the petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain and with the 493bhp 6.3-litre, twelve-cylinder W12. The 513bhp 4.0-litre TFSI with Cylinder-on-Demand technology will also remain at the heart of the S8, which is available exclusively with the standard wheelbase. 

Standard wheelbase versions are powered by a pair of TDI units, both of which are also available in conjunction with the Long Wheelbase body. The 3.0-litre V6 TDI benefits from a slight power increase from 252bhp to 258bhp and a further reduction in CO2 output from 155g/km to 149g/km (in conjunction with 18-inch wheel), with an official combined economy figure of 49.6mpg.

The 4.2-litre V8 TDI is still rated at 380bhp with 627lb.ft of torque, with a 0 to 62mph time of 4.7 seconds (standard wheelbase) and official combined fuel economy of 39.2mpg. CO2 output in this version also falls from 194g/km to 189g/km.

The two TDI engines are offered in three trim levels – SE, SE Executive and a new Sport option, which is reserved for standard wheelbase versions and replaces the Sport Executive trim in the outgoing range.

Standard kit includes Valcona leather upholstery, double glazing and a 180-watt audio system, combined with advanced technology including all-LED headlights, HDD satellite navigation and the fingertip-sensitive MMI Touch infotainment control system.

SE Executive versions add features such as the Audi parking system advanced with reversing camera, the advanced key for convenient locking, unlocking and starting without direct key intervention and powered, hands-free bootlid operation. New additions at this level for the 2016 Model Year include powered door closure, comfort front seats with 22-way powered adjustment and memory function and privacy glass for the rear windows.

Sport models gain a new dynamic exterior package featuring front and rear treatments reminiscent of the flagship S8, combined with pronounced ‘S' style side skirts and 19-inch alloy wheels in a seven-parallel spoke design along with MatrixBeam LED headlights.

Inside, there’s a 600-watt Bose sound system upgrade and Mobile Phone Preparation – High with Audi connect.

Long Wheelbase TDI, Long Wheelbase W12 and S8 models feature their own bespoke equipment lists.

The range also offers quattro all-wheel-drive and standard four-mode adaptive air suspension. A8 4.2 TDI models also gain an additional sport differential, enabling torque transfer between the rear wheels for greater adjustability, and options such as a firmer sport version of the air suspension and a dynamic steering system.

The first versions of the updated 2016 Model Year A8 range are available to order now priced from £59,585 OTR, and the new Sport models from June. UK deliveries will start in the summer.

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Natalie Middleton

Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for over 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day.