2017 Audi A8 L: A Detailed Overview
The 2017 Audi A8 L represented the pinnacle of Audi's luxury sedan offerings, combining sophisticated design, advanced technology, and a commanding presence. As a long-wheelbase variant, the A8 L prioritized rear-seat comfort and space, making it an ideal choice for discerning executives and those who appreciate chauffeur-driven experiences. This overview delves into the key aspects of this flagship sedan.
Highlights
The 2017 Audi A8 L was engineered to impress with its potent powertrain, comprehensive safety suite, and luxurious amenities.
- Engine Options: The primary powertrain available in the U.S. market was a potent 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, generating an impressive 450 horsepower and 444 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse was paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and Audi's renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system, ensuring confident acceleration, exceptional traction in various conditions, and a smooth, refined driving experience.
- Safety Features: Audi equipped the A8 L with a robust suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies designed to enhance awareness and prevent collisions:
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go: This system automatically maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, braking and accelerating as needed, even bringing the car to a complete stop and resuming motion.
- Audi Pre Sense Plus: A comprehensive collision mitigation system that can detect potential frontal collisions, issue warnings, and, if necessary, apply the brakes autonomously to reduce the severity of impact or avoid a collision altogether.
- Lane Departure Warning (Audi Active Lane Assist): This feature monitors lane markings and can provide steering assistance to keep the vehicle centered within its lane, especially useful on long highway journeys.
- Blind Spot Monitoring (Audi Side Assist): Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots, making lane changes safer.
- Night Vision Assistant: Utilizes an infrared camera to detect pedestrians and animals in the dark, displaying them on the instrument cluster's display.
- Top View Camera System: Provides a 360-degree view around the vehicle, aiding in low-speed maneuvers and parking.
- Trim Summary: The 2017 Audi A8 L was offered in two distinct and well-appointed trims:
- A8 L 4.0T quattro: This was the standard configuration, offering the powerful V8 engine, quattro AWD, and a generous list of standard luxury features, including premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced infotainment.
- A8 L W12 quattro: This ultra-luxury trim featured a breathtaking 6.3-liter W12 engine producing 500 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The W12 was the epitome of smooth, effortless power delivery and came standard with an even more extensive array of bespoke luxury appointments and exclusive design elements, often targeting buyers seeking the ultimate in automotive refinement.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Air Suspension: The A8 L came standard with an adaptive air suspension system that offered adjustable ride height and damping, providing a supremely comfortable ride and allowing for improved aerodynamics at higher speeds.
- Executive Rear Seating Package: A highly sought-after optional package that transformed the rear cabin into a first-class lounge, often including individual power-adjustable rear seats with heating, ventilation, massage functions, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
- Interior Craftsmanship: The cabin was a masterpiece of design and material quality, featuring premium leather, genuine wood or aluminum trim, and impeccable fit and finish.
- Advanced Infotainment: The MMI (Multi Media Interface) system provided intuitive control over navigation, audio, climate, and vehicle settings, often complemented by a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 Audi A8 L typically involves a sophisticated and comfortable experience, though it's important to be aware of the typical ownership considerations for a high-end luxury vehicle.
- Ownership Experience: Owners can expect a serene and luxurious driving environment, characterized by a quiet cabin, a plush ride, and effortless power. The A8 L excels as a long-distance cruiser and is equally adept at providing a comfortable commute. The long-wheelbase ensures ample legroom for rear passengers, making it a car that’s as enjoyable to be chauffeured in as it is to drive. The technology suite is generally user-friendly, though mastering all the features may take some time.
- Maintenance: As a flagship German luxury sedan, the 2017 Audi A8 L will require regular scheduled maintenance at authorized Audi dealerships or reputable independent European car specialists. This includes routine oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and brake inspections. Due to its complex systems and high-performance nature, maintenance costs can be higher than for more mainstream vehicles. Expect to pay a premium for parts and labor. Adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule is crucial for preserving the longevity and performance of the vehicle.
- Insurance: Insurance premiums for the 2017 Audi A8 L are likely to be higher than average. This is due to its luxury status, powerful engine, advanced safety features, and the cost of potential repairs. Factors such as your driving record, location, age, and chosen coverage levels will significantly influence the final cost. It's advisable to get quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best coverage at a competitive rate.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Audi A8 L is a highly desirable vehicle, prospective buyers should be aware of certain aspects:
- Technological Complexity: The abundance of advanced technology, while impressive, can sometimes lead to a steeper learning curve for some users. Certain functions might be buried deep within the MMI system, requiring familiarization.
- Rear-Wheel Steering (if equipped): While not standard on all models, some A8 L variants might have featured rear-wheel steering. While beneficial for maneuverability, it's another complex system that could potentially require specialized servicing if issues arise.
- Maintenance Costs: As mentioned, the cost of maintaining a vehicle of this caliber can be significant. Enthusiasts and those with a budget for premium upkeep will find it manageable, but it's a factor to consider carefully.
- Long-Term Reliability: While Audi vehicles are generally well-engineered, the long-term reliability of sophisticated luxury sedans can sometimes be a concern, especially as they age and accrue mileage. Thorough pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.
- Fuel Economy: The powerful V8 and W12 engines, while providing exhilarating performance, will naturally result in lower fuel economy figures compared to smaller, less powerful vehicles.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Audi A8 L stands as a testament to Audi's commitment to luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology. It offers a sophisticated and refined ownership experience, delivering a potent combination of power, comfort, and advanced safety features. For those seeking an executive sedan that prioritizes rear-seat opulence and a commanding presence on the road, the A8 L is an exceptional choice, provided potential buyers are prepared for the associated maintenance and insurance costs that come with owning a premium luxury vehicle.