2021 Audi S8 pricing and details announced with 420kW V8, predictive suspension and more

Audi has announced details of the most luxurious passenger car in its range, with the fifth-generation S8 sports limousine arriving in Australian showrooms in October.

Though never a big seller, the rise of SUVs has seen traditional upper-large variants such as the A8 decline further: only nine have been sold in Australia this year, opposed to a combined 1041 of its Q7 and Q8 SUV flagship stable mates.

However, it hasn’t stopped Audi from packing the new S8 with enough tech and features to create what Audi Australia managing director Paul Sansom calls “the ultimate in luxurious performance”.

Available in a single variant costing $260,000 plus on roads, the S8 has a 4.0-litre twin turbo V8 petrol engine packing 420kW and 820Nm — the latter available from a wide 2000-6000rpm band.

This allows the big rig to hit 100km/h from standstill in just 3.8 seconds, en route to a limited 250km/h top speed.

As with other recent Audi releases, there’s a 48-volt mild hybrid system which can recover up to 8kW while coasting and help the stop/start system save up to 0.8L/100km of fuel.

Cylinder on demand technology also contributes to the relatively low 10.5L/100km claimed fuel economy.

An eight-speed transmission sends power to all four wheels.

Audi says the S8’s suspension is among the most advanced in the world, simultaneously offering a plush and sporty ride.

It’s the first Audi to score predictive active suspension technology, which uses multiple sensors throughout the car to influence and actively control the S8’s body by adapting to road conditions.

In ‘Comfort plus’ mode, the system leans the car to reduce the effect of g-forces felt by passengers, while dynamic mode this effect helps improve cornering along with the standard all-wheel-steering system.

To enhance comfort, the suspension raises by 50mm whenever a door is opened to allow easier entry and exit, while other luxuries include heated and cooled front seats with massage function, heated rear seats, electric sunblinds, a rear remote control, Matrix LED working lights, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3D premium sound system and more.