It’s not an Audi RS8 it’s an Audi S8 Plus.
Back in In May 2012, Audi trademarked the “RS8” nameplate, confirming that the Audi A8 will get an even more powerful version at some point. It never did. Instead, they are offering this “Plus” version to create the ultimate A8 sedan. Could it be that Audi is taking a jab at BMW, who recently announced that they would cap future cars at 600 hp and concentrate on weight reduction and fuel economy? The Plus model is a mere 5 hp over that limit.
The S8 already had plenty of power, 520 hp from its twin turbo V8, which we felt was conservative. Now that number jumps to 605 hp better than anything in its class unless you consider the 640 hp CTS-V. Torque is quoted at 516 lb-ft – a gain of 35 – and can deliver up to as much as 553 lb-ft during over-boost. This power is distributed through the excellent eight-speed Tiptronic transmission to a Quattro drivetrain with a sport differential. Chassis highlights include adaptive air suspension sport and dynamic steering. S8 plus.
Audi claims 0-62 in a scant 3.8 seconds but considering we launched the standard S8 in 3.8 sec, we feel this car should be in the low 3s.
One strength of the large sedan is its lightweight design. Its body is made almost entirely of aluminum. Its design is based on the Audi Space Frame and weighs just 509.27 lb – which is the lightest among the competition. The standard spoiler lip on the rear lid catches the eye. It is painted in the exterior body color, and it is also available in carbon fiber as an option.
The flaps in the side air inlets and the blade on the front apron are made of carbon fiber. The mirror housings in body color are optionally available in gloss black or carbon. The Singleframe grille and double bars are in gloss black while the honeycomb structure of the side air inlets and radiator screen are in matt black.
Other goodies include, at least in Germany, 21inch wheels that were specially designed for the S8 plus and size 275/35 tires.
The increase in top speed to 189.5 mph is part of the dynamic package, which is a standard feature in Germany. In addition to carbon-fiber reinforced ceramic brakes with anthracite gray brake calipers and the Audi ceramic logo, the package also includes a sport exhaust system modified by Quattro GmbH.
The interior of the S8 has numerous sporty details with contrasting stitching in Arras red used throughout the black full leather interior. Piping, also in Arras red, trims the comfortable sport seats and the headlining and rear parcel shelf are designed in black Alcantara.
Audi delivers the new S8 plus with the normal wheelbase and offers extensive standard features that include ambient lighting, a convenience key with sensor-driven luggage compartment locking, full leather interior package, Alcantara package, power-assisted door closing and a DVD/CD changer. In Germany, standard features – in addition to the dynamic package – also include the assistance package with Audi pre sense plus, four-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning system, Bose surround sound system and MMI navigation plus with MMI touch. The new Audi S8 plus will be available at the end of November for a base price of 145,200 euros.
US prices have yet to be announced.