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2016 Audi S8 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Audi S8 highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

(data not available)

Pros

  • A well-equipped standard model
  • Standard AWD
  • Briskly fast acceleration

Cons

  • Infotainment software is starting to feel dated
  • Not much trunk space
  • Only a short wheelbase is available

Mileage (EPA estimate)

16 city, 25 highway, 19 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

Price
Year

Setting a high-performance and luxury bar

As if the 520 hp in previous generations wasn’t enough, the new 2016 Audi S8 Plus trim amps up the power to 605 hp. That means you get a sedan with sports car performance and handling. However, what’s more impressive is how quiet and refined a 2016 Audi S8 is at lower speeds. For example, the adaptive air suspension and razor-sharp steering deliver a composed ride that makes the 2016 Audi S8 feel a lot smaller than it is. While there were initially two trims of the 2016 Audi S8, the standard trim was discontinued in mid-2016, leaving only the 2016 Audi S8 Plus.

All Audi S8 years

5 reasons to buy the 2016 Audi S8

1. The performance of a sports car 

Don’t let the size of a 2016 Audi S8 fool you; both trims are capable of performance that rivals some of the fastest sports cars. For example, the base 2016 Audi S8, with a 520-hp turbocharged V8, hurries from zero to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds (when new). Part of that speed is due to a snappy eight-speed automatic transmission, which you can control from steering wheel-mounted paddles. That’s why, when you add the stability of adaptive dampening suspension, AWD, and precise steering, the 2016 Audi S8 feels much smaller than it is. 

2. Exceptionally refined ride 

While the 2016 Audi S8 is capable of some impressive sports car feats, it’s an equally comfortable and refined sedan. That’s because the standard adaptive air suspension uses a forward-facing camera to detect rough road surfaces and adjust dampening. The result is a cloud-like ride with minimal road and wind noise, even while cruising at freeway speeds. 

3. Loaded with standard features 

There’s little left to want from the standard features list of a 2016 Audi S8. For example, soft-close power doors, a power trunk lid, and a top-down camera system are useful everyday features included in the standard trim. You also get Bluetooth® connectivity, a 14-speaker Bose® audio system, an eight-inch screen, and Audi Drive Select to tune the Audi S8 driving dynamics. 

4. Comfort abounds 

Sit back and relax in the welcoming cockpit of a 2016 Audi S8. Let the standard massage function softly release the tension from a full day after putting the 22-way power-adjustable front seats into the perfect driving position. Plus, the heated and ventilated front seats combine with the four-zone automatic climate control to keep things at the right temperature. Finally, even the rear passengers enjoy the diamond cross-stitched leather seating and power sunshades. 

5. Modern technology packages 

An impressive list of technology is available in the 2016 Audi S8, starting with the standard blind-spot monitoring and forward collision mitigation systems. However, if you want more active driver assists, look for the Driver Assistance Package, which adds adaptive cruise control and an advanced pre-collision system that applies the brakes if a crash is imminent. Finally, individual tech options like a rear seat entertainment system and night-vision assist were also available. 

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

Audi S8 features and specs

Base 4WD/AWD 4D Sedan

Standard Features

  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • 4WD/AWD
  • A/C Seat(s)
  • ABS Brakes
  • Adjustable Suspension
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • BOSE Sound System
  • CD Audio
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Head Up Display
  • Leather Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Navigation System
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Rear Sunshade
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Bang & Olufsen Audio
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Full Leather Interior
  • Leather Seats
  • Rear Entertainment System
  • Rear Seat Heaters

Drive Wheels

All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)

Engine size

4.0L

Horsepower

605

Torque (ft-lbs)

517

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

21.7

Wheelbase

117.9"

Overall length

202.6"

Width

76.7"

Height

57.4"

Leg room

F 41.4"/R 38.7"

Head room

F 37.2"/R 38.1"

Front tires

P275/35YR21

Rear tires

P275/35YR21

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2016 Audi S8 FAQ

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