Best Car Reviews - 2016 Audi A8 L

Introduction

The 2016 Audi A8 L stands as a testament to Audi’s commitment to blending luxury with performance. Released in a year of significant automotive competition, the A8 L aims to captivate the discerning driver seeking comfort, style, and cutting-edge technology. Targeting executives and enthusiasts alike, the A8 L impresses with its perfect marriage of opulence and sportiness. What truly sets this model apart is its extended wheelbase which offers additional rear passenger space, making it a premier choice for those valuing in-car luxury.

Design and Exterior Features

The design of the 2016 Audi A8 L exudes sophistication and elegance. With its sleek, elongated shape, the A8 L is not just about appearances—it promises enhanced aerodynamics and road presence. Key design elements include:

Distinctive Full-LED headlights that provide superior visibility
An athletic broad stance with a well-defined grille
Chrome accents that add a touch of elegance
Streamlined body with a design language that epitomizes luxury sedans

This model brings subtle improvements over previous iterations, focusing on blending traditional Audi design cues with modern aesthetics.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the Audi A8 L, you are welcomed by an interior atmosphere that speaks to luxury at every turn. Audi ensures that each drive is an indulgent experience, with crafted materials and technology seamlessly integrated into the cabin.

Premium leather upholstery and wood trim for a sophisticated look
Spacious legroom for rear passengers, highlighting the extended wheelbase
Four-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort
Heated and ventilated seats, ensuring comfort in any weather

The Audi A8 L’s interior feels less like a car and more like a first-class lounge, with attention paid to every detail, from the stitching on the seats to the tactile feedback of the controls.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2016 Audi A8 L houses a robust V8 engine with SIDI technology, ensuring that performance matches its elegant appearance. The all-wheel-drive system is intuitive, providing excellent grip and stability, making it ideal for various driving conditions.

0 to 100 km/h in approximately 4.4 seconds, demonstrating its performance pedigree
Fuel efficiency is averaged at 13.5 l/100 km, impressive for a vehicle of its class
Smooth handling on highways, offering a ride akin to floating on air
Responsive steering and tight cornering, especially noticeable in urban environments

Owning the A8 L means enjoying top-tier performance without sacrificing comfort, a line only a few can tread successfully.

Technology and Connectivity

Audi’s dedication to incorporating cutting-edge technology is evident in the A8 L. The infotainment system is both intuitive and comprehensive, catering to the needs of the modern driver.

MMI touch interface with a 7-inch LCD display
DVD player, Bang & Olufsen audio system for unparalleled sound quality
Bluetooth connectivity, ensuring seamless integration with mobile devices
Driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and night vision assist
Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities for connectivity on the go

The 2016 Audi A8 L is designed to keep drivers and passengers connected, informed, and entertained.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount in the Audi A8 L, with both standard and advanced safety features providing peace of mind on every journey.

Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution
Comprehensive airbag system, including side, curtain and front airbags
Advanced driver assistance systems, like lane departure warnings and automatic emergency braking
Parking sensors and rearview camera for ease of parking
Received high ratings in crash tests, attesting to its robust safety features

Pricing and Variants

The base price for the 2016 Audi A8 L starts around $82,500, with variations based on additional features or bespoke options. Compared to competitors like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series, the A8 L presents a competitive offering in the luxury sedan segment.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Luxurious interior with high-quality materials
Powerful engine performance and smooth acceleration
Cutting-edge technology with intuitive controls
Superior build quality typical of Audi craftsmanship
Enhanced rear seat comfort, ideal for executive travel

Cons

Limited trunk space, compared to some competitors
Fuel efficiency might be a concern for long-distance travel
High maintenance costs, indicative of luxury branding
Complex technology interfaces that may require learning curve
Options can quickly increase the base price

Maintenance and Common Issues

Maintaining the Audi A8 L can incur costs averaging $1,500 annually, contingent on usage and care.

Potential issues with electrical systems, requiring software updates
Air suspension components may require attention over time
Timing chain tensioners often cited by users as needing regular checks
Brake pad wear, particularly with aggressive driving styles
Infotainment system glitches, though often fixed with updates

Rating

The 2016 Audi A8 L receives an overall rating of 8.7 out of 10:

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10
Performance: 8.5/10
Technology: 8/10
Safety: 9/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"An epitome of luxury on wheels, though the tech suite was a bit overwhelming at first."
"Smooth driving experience, especially on highways; however, I’d love more trunk space."
"The rear seat legroom is a dream, ideal for someone commuting with clients regularly."
"High maintenance costs did surprise me, but the joy of driving compensates for it."
"More fuel-efficient than expected for a V8, but city driving could still be improved."

Best cars in this category

2016 BMW 7 Series
2016 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
2016 Jaguar XJ
2016 Lexus LS
2016 Porsche Panamera

Summary

The 2016 Audi A8 L is best suited for those who prioritize elegance, comfort, and top-tier performance in their luxury vehicle. It offers an alluring blend of executive comfort with a sprinkle of sporty driving dynamics. Despite some perceived drawbacks, its overall package makes it a worthwhile investment for the discerning buyer, cementing its position as a leader in the large luxury sedan market.