2014 Audi A8 L TDI

We already know the new A8 to be a tip-rung executive sedan replete with various wheelbase and engine options and to keep moving it forward Audi has done what comes naturally by now offering it as a TDI.

Turbocharged Direct Injection or TDI is the name given to Audi’s clean diesel engine – a 3.0-liter V6 currently used in the Q7 SUV and now the brand’s flagship sedan, the A8.  And Audi is serious about getting Americans back on the diesel bandwagon as this is just the first of four new TDI models to be introduced this year.

Based on this test-drive and my previous diesel experiences, this is a current fuel economy solution that makes sense.  At 28mpg combined, this A8 blows away its competition at the pump – including gas-electric hybrids from Lexus, Mercedes-Benz and BMW.  And with the TDI there’s no hypermiling required to achieve those numbers as evidenced by my tester’s stellar 29mpg return.  Yes, diesel fuel is more expensive but when you factor that the A8 and all of its competitors require premium gas anyhow the annual fuel savings with the TDI can be as much as $800.  Plus, it’ll take you on a 600 mile journey before needing a refuel – 150 to 200 miles greater than the rest of the pack.

This 3.0-liter clean diesel V6 generates 240 horsepower and over 400 pound feet of torque all while netting 36mpg highway.

Mated to a an 8-speed automatic with sport mode and paddle shifters driving all 4-wheels through a Quattro system biased 60% to the rear, the A8 TDI possesses wonderful driving dynamics with an appropriately refined yet athletic demeanor.  Stomping the accelerator from a standstill requires 6.4-seconds to reach 60mph making it the slowest of the 5 A8 models though its power delivery is exquisitely smooth with a well of torque which makes passing maneuvers a cinch.  Sport mode for the transmission scrubs out any perceived lag from the powertrain.  And with Audi’s Drive Select, you’re just a rotary knob away from tailoring the air suspension to your likeness.  Riding on optional 20” wheels wrapped in some serious Pirelli P Zero rubber, there wasn’t anything I didn’t like about driving this A8.  Its aluminum space frame and bodyshell produce a relatively low curb weight of about 4,500 pounds, lending to the exceptional ride and handling, especially for a car of this size.  An available Sport plus package can take it even further. All A8 TDIs are the long wheelbase model.

For as satisfying as the A8 is to drive, I’m not so sure the backseat isn’t the best place to spend time.  Just stretch out and let the B&O sound system entertain you.

It’s a jaw-dropping $6,300 option but out of all the high end stereo units I’ve tested this is by far the best.  Its ability to recreate life-like sound through its 19 speakers – even from low-res digital signals – is nothing short of brilliant.  Which is a fitting term for the rest of the cabin as well.  I don’t use the term ‘perfect’ loosely but honestly, what more could you want from a car interior?  Immersed in the leather, wood and metal surroundings are highlight items such as the dual panorama sunroof with a rear opening feature, the 22-way climate comfort front seats with massage, the far reaching MMI system with realistic Google earth mapping, in car WiFi and around view camera, and the limo-like rear seats with power sunshades for all windows and drop down lighted vanity mirrors.  Drive as long as you want and you and your lucky passengers will still never know the term road weary.

The on-board price of the 2014 A8 L TDI is $83,395 and comes in as –tested at $99,445.  A near 6-figure price is usually hard to justify for any car but in this case, it actually seems worth it.