The Audi A8 L Horch 60 TFSI, introduced in March 2024 as part of the D5 facelift, represents the pinnacle of luxury and performance within the A8 range. Positioned as an ultra-exclusive variant, the Horch is aimed at discerning customers seeking a heightened level of refinement and prestige. This specific configuration combines a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 460 horsepower with a mild-hybrid system, an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission, and Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system. The “60 TFSI” designation reflects the engine’s approximate power output in metric horsepower. The A8 L Horch is exclusively offered as a long-wheelbase sedan, emphasizing rear passenger comfort and space.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A8 |
| Generation | A8L Horch (D5, facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 60 TFSI V8 (460 Hp) Mild Hybrid quattro tiptronic |
| Start of production | March, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.53 l/100 km (20.4 US mpg, 24.5 UK mpg, 8.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Power | 460 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 115.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 660 Nm @ 1850-4500 rpm (486.79 lb.-ft. @ 1850-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA825 / CXYA |
| Engine displacement | 3996 cm3 (243.85 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | 2 x Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal | 18.04 UK gal) |
| Length | 5450 mm (214.57 in.) |
| Width | 1945 mm (76.57 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2130 mm (83.86 in.) |
| Height | 1486 mm (58.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3258 mm (128.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1645 mm (64.76 in.) |
| Rear track | 1633 mm (64.29 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1007 mm (39.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1185 mm (46.65 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor permanently drive all four wheels |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS, 4-wheel steering |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 265/40 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
Introduction
The Audi A8 L Horch 60 TFSI represents a revival of the historic Horch nameplate, previously associated with a luxury car manufacturer acquired by Auto Union (later Audi) in 1932. The reintroduction of Horch as a sub-brand within Audi signifies a commitment to ultra-luxury and exclusivity, primarily targeted at the Chinese market where long-wheelbase sedans and prestige brands are highly sought after. Based on the D5 generation A8, the Horch variant features unique styling cues, enhanced interior appointments, and a focus on rear passenger experience. The 60 TFSI engine option, paired with the quattro all-wheel-drive system and tiptronic transmission, positions this model as a performance-oriented luxury vehicle.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A8 L Horch 60 TFSI lies the EA825 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, designated with the code CXYA. This engine utilizes a direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chambers for improved efficiency and power. The engine employs a dual-scroll turbocharger configuration, minimizing turbo lag and providing a broad torque curve. The valvetrain features Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for enhanced performance. The mild-hybrid system, utilizing a 48V electrical architecture, incorporates a Belt-driven Starter Generator (BSG) that enables features like extended engine-off coasting, smoother start-stop operation, and a slight power boost during acceleration. The eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission is a torque-converter type, known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness. It’s programmed to prioritize comfort and refinement while still offering quick downshifts when needed.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 460 horsepower V8 engine and the eight-speed tiptronic transmission delivers brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in approximately 4.6 seconds, making it a genuinely quick luxury sedan. The tiptronic transmission is tuned for smooth, almost imperceptible gear changes, contributing to a relaxed driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the A8 L Horch offers ample power for confident overtaking and highway cruising. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and control. The air suspension system further contributes to ride comfort, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. Compared to the A8 55 TFSI (with a V6 engine), the 60 TFSI offers significantly more power and torque, resulting in a more engaging driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A8 L Horch 60 TFSI is exceptionally well-equipped as standard. Interior appointments include premium leather upholstery, wood or carbon fiber trim, and a panoramic sunroof. Rear passengers benefit from individual, electrically adjustable seats with massage and ventilation functions, along with a rear-seat entertainment system. Standard technology features include Audi’s MMI touch response infotainment system with dual touchscreens, a digital instrument cluster, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems. Optional extras include a premium sound system, extended leather trim, and various customization options through Audi Exclusive. The Horch trim distinguishes itself with unique exterior chrome accents, a specific grille design, and “Horch” badging.
Chassis & Braking
The A8 L Horch utilizes an advanced chassis design featuring an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. The air suspension system, with electronically controlled dampers, provides adjustable ride height and damping characteristics, allowing drivers to tailor the ride to their preferences. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, along with Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The A8 L Horch also features 4-wheel steering, enhancing maneuverability at low speeds and stability at high speeds.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A8 L Horch 60 TFSI has been well-received in its primary target market, China, where its combination of luxury, performance, and prestige resonates with affluent buyers. Critics have praised the vehicle’s refined interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, is reasonable for a vehicle of this size and performance, averaging around 20.4 US mpg. Compared to rivals like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series, the A8 L Horch offers a unique blend of German engineering and understated luxury. The mild-hybrid system contributes to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to non-hybrid V8 models.
Legacy
The A8 L Horch 60 TFSI represents a significant step in Audi’s pursuit of ultra-luxury. While it’s too early to assess its long-term reliability definitively, Audi’s reputation for build quality and engineering excellence suggests that it will prove to be a durable and dependable vehicle. The EA825 V8 engine has a proven track record in other Audi and Porsche models, indicating its robustness. As a relatively new model, the A8 L Horch is likely to hold its value well in the used car market, particularly among collectors and enthusiasts seeking a unique and exclusive luxury sedan.
