2005 Audi A8 Superb driving dynamics At first glance, the A8 doesn't look much different than its model of the past. The same crisp, uncluttered lines are there, but the headlights and roofline are more aggressively swept back. Filling the wheel wells are choices of wheel designs and sizes ranging from sedate to sporty. All in all, this is an understated, handsome sedan that exudes class. Under the A8's aluminum skin, Audi employs a revised version of its aluminum-alloy space frame that is stronger and lighter than a comparable steel structure. This architecture has 20 percent fewer parts than the previous generation, yet boasts considerably greater (60 percent) torsional rigidity. A spacious and beautifully finished interior greets the driver and passengers. Audi has a strong reputation for having what many consider to be the best cabins in the business, be they entry-level or ultra-level luxury cars, and the A8 maintains that lofty standard. Whether you sit in the pilot's seat or stretch out with 42 inches of rear legroom in the L's rear, everything you see and touch in the A8 bespeaks the highest quality. Generous fillets of dark or light wood, suede trim and aluminum accents are arranged attractively. With 16-way power adjustment (including upper seat back angle for the shoulders) and a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, finding a comfortable driving position is easy for short and tall drivers alike. Audi's Multi-Media Interface (MMI) handles everything from the navigation and audio systems to the adjustment of the driver-selectable air suspension. MMI features a 7-inch monitor that automatically glides (and hides) into the dash when not in use. Mounted in the console and operated via a simple twist-and-press knob and four large buttons surrounding the knob, Audi's MMI may draw comparisons to BMW's iDrive system. But, unlike iDrive, MMI is simple and intuitive to operate. Under the hood is a refined 4.2-liter, 40-valve V8 that makes scintillating 335 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission sends the power to all four wheels through Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system. The adaptive air suspension adjusts itself to road and driving conditions, automatically firming up when the car is pressed through the curves and softening when cruising down the interstate. The driver can select one of four settings for the adaptive system: dynamic (lowest ride height and firm damping), automatic, comfort and lift (raises the car up for travel on rough roads). With its polished demeanor, spacious and luxurious cabin and capable road manners, the A8 leaves little to be desired. Copyright Edmunds.com Inc. All rights reserved. First published on www.edmunds.com and reprinted with permission. Edmunds and the Edmunds.com car logo are proprietary trademarks of Edmunds.com Inc.

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