The New Audi A8: A Breath Of Fresh Air

Has Audi done enough to excite buyers with the new A8 to draw them away from the updated S-Class and the upcoming 7-Series?

- Anubhav Sharma

In a world besotted with SUVs, and now EVS, a new sedan is like a breath of fresh air these days. The new sedan in this case happens to be the flagship from Ingolstadt, the new A8, which makes its debut in the long-wheelbase version. Sensibly, I should add, considering the buyers for these cars are usually driven around. Has Audi done enough to excite buyers, and more importantly, draw them away from the updated S-Class and the upcoming 7-Series?

The A8L has always been an understated car when it comes to looks. Clearly, someone felt it was time to change, and the new A8L comes with a lot of chrome. The massive, shiny grille has chrome studs, and there is some more below the grille, stretching across the front. Too blingy? Not really, as it gives the car a slightly imposing look up front. The party trick on the outside is the digital Matrix headlamps, with 1.3 million micromirrors no less, with fantastic throw and spread. The digital part gives you multiple choices for light play when locking and unlocking the car, fun stuff for your Instagram if you are into all that. The Rear gets digital OLED lights, plus a strip of chrome, with options of different light play as well. Overall, the refreshed look works well and gives the A8L a good road presence.