Name: Audi A8 (2018 – present) | Expert Rating | The Car Expert
Item: Audi A8
Rating: 60.0

Summary

The Audi A8 is a large luxury saloon, sitting above the smaller A6, A4 and A3 saloon models in the Audi range. The current model is the fifth-generation Audi flagship saloon, and the fourth to carry the A8 name.

The latest Audi A8 arrived in the UK in early 2018, initially with a choice of petrol or diesel engines and more recently with a plug-in hybrid option. It was facelifted in 2021 with a relatively subtle update, bringing more chrome, more LED lights and more technology to the existing car.

There also is a high-performance model called the S8, which joined the range several months after the lower-level models were launched.

The A8 has received high praise from the UK media for its overall comfort and technology, even by the lofty standards of the luxury saloon market, as well as its driving dynamics. However, several reports have suggested that it’s not as comfortable in the back seats – which is where many owners will likely be sitting – as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

As of January 2025, the Audi A8 holds a New Car Expert Rating score of D (60%) and a Used Car Expert Rating score of E (just 53%). Its driving and comfort qualities are countered by poor reliability and high running costs, which affect its used car score more than the new car score.

More Audi Expert Ratings, new car reviews, news and features

Audi A8 highlights

Super comfortable and refined
Standard mild hybrid engines
Chock-full of advanced technology
Choice of petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid

Audi A8 lowlights

Driving dynamics not as good as a BMW 7 Series
Plug-in hybrid batteries compromise boot space
Rear seats not as comfy as a Mercedes S-Class
All-new S-Class has moved the goalposts

Key specifications

Body style: Large saloon
Engines: petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid
Price: From £80,820 on-road

Launched: Autumn 2017
Last updated: Spring 2020
Last updated: Spring 2022

Image gallery

Media reviews

Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

Auto Express+

Model reviewed: A8 L 60 TFSI
Score: 7 / 10
“Audi’s largest saloon is still every bit the hi-tech tour de force you expect and, whether you’re in the driving seat or reclining in the back, the facelifted Audi A8 is a consummate professional.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 4.0-litre petrol automatic S8
Score: 8 / 10
“If you want a fast flagship limo, then the Audi S8 ticks the right boxes. The S8 isn’t a car you buy with an eye on the budget, and while the V8 suits it, the car is still flawed in some small ways.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A8 features impressive tech and a luxurious interior, but can’t match the Mercedes S-Class for comfort.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid automatic A8L 60
Score: 7 / 10
“The Audi A8 60 TFSIe quattro is probably the most convincing model in the limo’s line-up – particularly when you consider that cars like these tend to spend most of their time waiting, crawling around city centres or queuing at airports.”
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Auto Trader+

Model reviewed: 4.0-litre petrol automatic S8
“The Audi S8, simply put, is a phenomenal limo that blends exceptional comfort with mind-boggling performance and suspension technology. It delivers on all its key metrics, then goes beyond them by being ridiculously good fun to drive. Well worth a look.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
“Even alongside other luxury saloons, the Audi A8 looks like a very impressive machine. It’s lavish and spacious, luxurious to ride in and good to drive. Yes, plenty of the ground-breaking technology on show costs you extra, but even without it, the A8 is a fine luxury limousine.”
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Business Car+

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid 60 TFSIe L Sport
Score: 7 / 10
“The hybrid powertrain offers a really smooth transition between electric and petrol propulsion too and the car is amazingly rapid when the driver requests it. It can stay in EV mode up to 84mph and has a luxurious ride quality, adaptable via various driving modes.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre diesel automatic 50 TDI L
Score: 9 / 10
“Technologically brilliant, comfortable and pretty faultless to drive, the new Audi A8 is a triumph, a masterclass in interior luxury and refinement. It’s one of the few cars we’d actually prefer to be a passenger in, so we can fully appreciate the full breath of its talents.”
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Car+

Model reviewed: A8 L 60 TFSI
Score: 8 / 10
“We can see why Audi is so proud of it, especially in terms of ride and handling. It’s comfortable, good to drive and incredibly capable, but starting to feel its age inside compared with S-Class.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 4.0-litre petrol automatic S8
Score: 10 / 10
“There’s no getting away from the Audi S8’s super-serious outlook on life but it’s supremely well-built, sports car fast, sounds fantastic and handles like a much smaller car due to a suspension system that crushes the laws of physics.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid 60 TFSIe
Score: 8 / 10
“The Mercedes S-Class is more opulent in the rear and BMW 7 Series more fun to drive, but the subtly styled Ingolstadt car is the sharpest looking and most technologically impressive. Silent, seamlessly powerful and emissions-free in town – this plug-in version of the Audi A8 is the only one you need.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 10 / 10
“We love the tech on offer, and thanks to some very clever thinking in and around its interior, it all seems to work pretty seamlessly. To drive, it’s a triumph. Simply put, the Audi A8 is a great car. And one that’s at or very near the top of the luxury state of the art.”
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Car Keys+

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid 60 TFSIe
Score: 9 / 10
“A good luxury car needs to feel special, while offering exceptional comfort and refinement, and the Audi A8 does just that. The only slight issue is that this update doesn’t go far enough – particularly next to a brand-new Mercedes S-Class. That said, the A8 remains an outstanding luxury saloon.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The new Audi A8 has shifted the luxury limousine game onto new levels. The technology it showcases is breath-taking both inside and outside with its game-changing suspension, steering and safety systems. Whether you’re in the front or rear, you will be very happy either way.”
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Carbuyer+

Model reviewed: 4.0-litre petrol automatic S8
Score: 7.4 / 10
“The Audi S8 combines the luxury of Audi’s flagship saloon with a powerful V8 engine and clever active air suspension”
Read review

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8.6 / 10
“The latest Audi A8 is the smoothest, most technologically switched-on version yet.”
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Carwow+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
“The Audi A8 is a comfortable luxury limo with powerful engines and a classy, spacious interior. That said, its touchscreen infotainment system is a pain to use when driving.”
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Company Car Today+

Model reviewed: Plug-in Hybrid
“A handy addition to the A8 range, but the Audi A8 PHEV is not cheap, there are some boot space compromises and the official electric range is less than 30 miles.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre diesel automatic 50 TDI LWB
Score: 8.1 / 10
“Many, many strengths, but it’s a shame the new Audi A8 isn’t a bit more efficient or a bit more visually different from its predecessor. Still, there’s quality in abundance.”
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Daily Mail+

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre diesel automatic 50 TDI L
Score: 8 / 10
“If this car were a superhero, it would be Batman, as like the Caped Crusader it really comes alive at night. The daytime grey is a servile blank canvas waiting for the sun to set and the light show to begin. Whereupon the true class of Audi’s minimalist design begins to shine.” (Chris Evans)
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Eurekar+

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre petrol automatic 55 TFSI S line
“There aren’t many motors in which a rear seat passenger – and that, of course, is where the CEO usually sits – can write a letter in the traditional way with a fountain pen and paper. Such is the magic carpet ride of the Audi A8, however, that this exercise is accomplished with consummate ease.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre petrol automatic 55 TFSI L
“The Audi A8 L is a smart, comfortable and effortless drive, with a strong V6 heart and embracing suspension. The interior is exquisite, with some truly futuristic feeling tech. The modern touch-screens with feedback make for a truly Star Wars feeling ride.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre diesel automatic 50 TDI
“I hadn’t covered more than a handful in the new Audi A8 before I began to understand why this car is the holder of the World Luxury Car of the Year 2018 title. It’s a car that eats up the miles in terms of comfort, quietness and performance and really does spoil you.”
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Evo+

Model reviewed: S8
Score: 7 / 10
“Impressively agile and always effortless, the tech-packed S8 is still more limo than sports saloon.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“High-tech and slick inside and out, the Audi A8 is an impressive luxury car – if not quite as compelling as an S-Class.”
Read review

Fleetworld+

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre diesel automatic
“Audi has once more raised the bar for cabin design and quality. The experience is serene and comfortable thanks to the adaptive air suspension. On-road refinement is impressive; it offers little in the way of driving appeal, but if it’s a relaxing drive that you’re after, the Audi A8 delivers in spades.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid 60 TFSIe L
Score: 8 / 10
“Plug-in power shows a more efficient side to Audi’s flagship.”
Read review

Heycar+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
Like most Audis, the A8 is a fabulous all-rounder, which helps solidify its place at the very top of the class. If you find yourself in need of a luxury limousine, there’s now a different ‘only sensible choice’.
Read review

Honest John+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A8 is a luxurious saloon, sophisticated and packed with tech, that wouldn’t look out of place in a James Bond movie while its autonomous driving capability and remote parking features provide a fascinating insight into what Audi has planned for its next-generation of everyday cars.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre diesel automatic 50 TDI
“Despite a few chinks in its armour, as a total package the Audi A8 has astonishingly wide breadth, able to delight both driver and passengers alike.”
Read review

Motoring Research+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A8 offers luxury, space and performance in abundance, making for a genuine alternative to the (much pricier) Bentley Flying Spur.”
Read review

Parkers+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9.6 / 10
“Brilliant, tech-laden luxury car.”
Read review

The Sunday Times+

Model reviewed: S8
Score: 8 / 10
“Ride comfort is exceptional, with the “predictive active suspension” able to shrug off bumps in the road thanks to a forward-facing camera that can detect imperfections and adjust the set-up accordingly.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre diesel automatic 50 TDI
Score: 8 / 10
“A 7-series-beater for those excited by APR” (Jeremy Clarkson)
Read review

The Telegraph+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A8 has been the perennial bridesmaid in this class, and these fairly mild updates are unlikely to change that. Despite the modernity and tech pizzazz it has, from its 48V mild hybrid system to headlights that can do serviceable lighthouse duties, there is something refreshingly straightforward about it.”
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Top Gear+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“A8 sits at the top of the many-branched Audi tree. Has all the tech your A4 probably will in five years’ time.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 4.0-litre petrol automatic S8
Score: 7 / 10
“The most boring 560bhp car (in a good way)”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

No safety rating

As of January 2025, the Audi A8 has not been tested by Euro NCAP.

Previous generations of the A8 have never been crash-tested, and we’re not expecting this one to be tested, either, due to its high price. If it does happen, we’ll update this section accordingly.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

As of January 2025, the Audi A8 has not been assessed by Green NCAP.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 133
Average repair cost: £652.60
Last updated: September 2024

Reliability score

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

The Audi A8 has a below-average reliability rating of 41%, according to workshop and warranty data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our partner, MotorEasy. This score applies to both the current model (2018 onwards) and previous generations.

For such a complex and expensive vehicle, the average repair bill of just over £650 is quite competitive. However, gearbox problems – although fairly rare to date – are expensive with an average repair cost of £2,400. Suspension problems are also relatively common, with an average bill of £900.

If you own an Audi A8 or are looking at purchasing a used model, a used car warranty is certainly worth considering. Make sure it covers all of the problem areas shown above.

Running cost rating

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

Fuel consumption	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	29 mpg	E	24 – 31 mpg	E – E
Diesel models	39 mpg	D	38 – 41 mpg	D – D
Plug-in hybrid models	151 mpg	A	109 – 157 mpg	A – A

CO₂ output	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	225 g/km	D	206 – 265 g/km	D – D
Diesel models	190 g/km	C	180 – 197 g/km	C – D
Plug-in hybrid models	43 g/km	A	40 – 60 g/km	A – A

Battery range	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Plug-in hybrid models	37 miles	D	29 – 38 miles	D – E

Insurance group	Average	Score	Variation	Score
All models	49	E	44 – 50	D – F

Service and maintenance	Cost	Score
Year 1	£403	C
Year 2	£977	D
Year 3	£1,586	D
Year 4	£1,882	D
Year 5	£2,441	D
Overall	£7,289	D

Running costs for the Audi A8 range are quite expensive, according to data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our commercial partner, Clear Vehicle Data.

Fuel economy is disappointing for petrol models and not much better for diesel-engined versions. The plug-in hybrid models look amazing on paper, but this is largely thanks to ridiculous EU/UK government lab tests that are completely inadequate for plug-in hybrids. There is no way you will ever travel for 151 miles on a single gallon (4.5 litres) of fuel and some electricity…

The battery range of the plug-in hybrid model is rather poor when compared to most rivals, with about 37 miles in real-world electric-only driving.

Compared to the rest of the large saloon sector, the car’s service and maintenance costs are pretty average. Insurance costs likely to be high, though, based on data from the UK’s insurance group assessor, Thatcham Research.

Recalls

Official DVSA safety recalls that have been issued for the Audi A8

Feb 2022

Jun 2021

May 2020

Feb 2020

Jul 2019

Feb 2019

Apr 2018

Date: February 2022
Recall number: R/2022/036
Model types: All
Build dates: 11/2019 to 02/2021
Number of vehicles affected: 5,327
Defect: Following a previous campaign the toe and/or camber values on the rear axle may in certain circumstances incorrectly be changed without this being noticed.
Remedy: The wheel alignment must be checked and if necessary the suspension must be serviced on the affected vehicles.

Date: June 2021
Recall number: R/2021/236
Model types: All
Build dates: 11/2019 to 02/2021
Number of vehicles affected: 10,089
Defect: One or more nuts which do not meet the specifications may have been fitted on the rear axle suspension links.
Remedy: The affected nuts on the rear axle will be replaced on affected vehicles.

Date: May 2020
Recall number: R/2020/135
Model types: All
Build dates: 09/2019 to 12/2019
Number of vehicles affected: 1,568
Defect: It is possible that gear oil may escape due to a faulty welded joint on the gearbox oil line.
Remedy: The production date of the gear oil line must be checked first on the vehicles affected and the gear oil line must be replaced if necessary.

Date: February 2020
Recall number: R/2020/032
Model types: All
Build dates: 10/2019
Number of vehicles affected: 6
Defect: The rigidity of the rear shock absorber forks may be impaired.
Remedy: Replace the rear shock absorber forks on affected vehicles.

Date: July 2019
Recall number: R/2019/229
Model types: All
Build dates: 01/2019 to 03/2019
Number of vehicles affected: 2
Defect: The rigidity of a component securing the seat rail for the front passenger seat may be impaired.
Remedy: Both guide rails for the front passenger seat must be replaced on the vehicles affected.

Date: February 2019
Recall number: R/2019/065
Model types: All
Build dates: 11/2018 to 12/2018
Number of vehicles affected: 31
Defect: A casting process error may affect the rigidity of the front shock absorber fork.
Remedy: Replace the affected shock absorber forks.

Date: April 2018
Recall number: R/2018/111
Model types: All
Build dates: 01/2018
Number of vehicles affected: 6
Defect: On vehicles with active head restraints, the retaining clip which holds the extendible part of the head restraint in its end position may not have been installed.
Remedy: Manufacturer to recall all affected vehicles to check for missing clip and replace if necessary.

As of September 2024, there have been seven DVSA vehicle safety recalls on the Audi A8 covering various different issues.

Not all vehicles are affected by recalls. You can check to see if your car is included in any of the above recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Audi dealer.

If your car is affected by a recall, the vehicle must be repaired and you should not be charged for any work required. If you are buying a used A8, you should insist that any outstanding recall work is completed before you take delivery of the vehicle.