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Audi has proudly unveiled its new flagship model, the 12-cylinder A8 L, at the
2004 NAIAS in Detroit.
The brand with the four-ring badge has once again raised the benchmark for
dynamic performance in the very top automotive bracket with the launch of a
vehicle characterised by superlatives.
According to Audi Australia's managing director, Graham Hardy, this new model
will be evaluated for launch in Australia.
"This absolute hero model is the kind of powerful icon capable of raising the
image of Audi locally, and as such its introduction in Australia will be
carefully considered," Mr Hardy said.
"Following our recent announcement that Audi Australia will become a
wholly-owned subsidiary of AUDI AG, effective 1 January 2004, we will have many
more opportunities like this one where we are in a more favourable position to
consider the introduction of niche, yet iconic models, into Australia in pursuit
of our goal to position Audi as a brand focussed on sports performance."
Quite possibly the most sporty luxury saloon in the world, the Audi A8 L 6.0
quattro boasts 12-cylinders, 331 kW (450 bhp) and 580 Newton-metres of torque -
a gain of 30 bhp and 20 Nm on the predecessor model.
The A8 6.0 L quattro sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, and
accelerates from 0 to 200 in a mere 17.4 seconds. The twelve-cylinder model
reaches its electronically-governed top speed of 250 km/h after scarcely 30
seconds.
Perhaps even more impressive however, is the spontaneity of the six-litre
engine which translates every adjustment of the throttle into acceleration and
revs supremely smoothly right up to the rated limit of 6,200 rpm if desired.
At the same time more than 95 percent of the engine's peak torque is
available between 2,300 and 5,300 rpm - the ideal basis for supreme pulling
power in every velocity range. The torque characteristic of this large-capacity
naturally aspirated engine is without comparison.
The six-speed automatic transmission with tiptronic function makes sure that
exactly the right amount of power is always available, and also offers the
driver the chance to intervene actively in the tiptronic gearshift gate. The
automatic transmission's Sport program waits for higher engine speeds before
shifting up, and shifts down sooner, allowing the full revving ability of the
twelve-cylinder engine to be utilised.
In conjunction with the low weight of the aluminium body built using the Audi
Space Frame (ASF) principle, the engine and transmission turn in an excellent
performance coupled with exemplary economy.
quattro permanent four-wheel drive remains unequalled in the luxury segment.
It translates engine performance into superbly effective propulsion and lateral
support. The aluminium chassis with air suspension as standard is a feature
found only on the new A8 L 6.0 quattro, a system that delivers the right
characteristic for every situation, by means of the continuously variable damper
settings, the adaptive air suspension reduces body movements, while optimising
roadholding and ride comfort.
The driver can choose between four predefined settings via the MMI, for a
suspension characteristic spanning the full range from overtly sporty to
ultra-comfortable.
The A8 L 6.0 quattro is recognisable at first glance as the top model in the
range. Its front end is distinguished by the new formal idiom of Audi design.
Its central element is the striking single-frame radiator grille, the outer
chrome ring of which surrounds the painted grey fins of the grille with
horizontal chrome strips. The W12 badge provides a visual indication of the
vehicle's potential.
The clear glass headlight covers visibly display the technology that they
protect. The 12-cylinder A8 is the first car in the world to be equipped with
the new lighting technology of adaptive light with LED daytime driving lights,
whose distinctive 5-star lighting elements also have a dual function as new
design features for the vehicle's front end.
This revolutionary technology means that the A8 L 6.0 quattro is the first
vehicle in the world on which the use of daytime driving lights has virtually no
effect on fuel consumption - a clear safety advantage, as the car is more easily
spotted whatever the light conditions. This advance has been made possible by
the use of LED units, the energy consumption of which is only a fraction of that
of conventional bulbs.
The interior affords an atmosphere of superb luxury. The top quality of the
materials and finish, visible and palpable down to the smallest detail,
perfectly complements the spaciousness and perfected ergonomic layout. The
driver and passengers alike can savour an ambience, the style, exclusivity and
functionality of which are remarkable, even in the luxury car bracket.
All these characteristics highlight the sheer technological calibre of this
luxury saloon and - in conjunction with the superlative drive train and
suspension - create a unique vehicle: the Audi A8 6.0 L quattro.
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