The Audi A8 L (D4, 4H facelift) with the 6.3 FSI W12 engine, producing 500 horsepower, represents the pinnacle of luxury and performance within the D4 generation A8 lineup, manufactured from 2013 to 2017. This long-wheelbase variant, designated as the A8 L, was specifically designed to cater to markets prioritizing rear passenger comfort, particularly in Asia and, to a lesser extent, North America. It sat at the very top of the A8 range, offering a more opulent experience than the standard wheelbase model and significantly outperforming the 3.0-liter V6 and 4.2-liter V8 options in terms of power and prestige. The facelift brought updated styling, enhanced technology, and refinements to the already sophisticated A8 platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A8 |
| Generation | A8L (D4,4H facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 6.3 FSI W12 (500 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg, 25 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 264 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.2 kg/Hp, 241 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 301.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 500 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 79.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 625 Nm @ 4750 rpm (460.98 lb.-ft. @ 4750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CTNA |
| Engine displacement | 6299 cm3 (384.39 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | W-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 11.2 l (11.83 US qt, 9.85 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 15 l (15.85 US qt, 13.2 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2075 kg (4574.59 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2675 kg (5897.37 lbs) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal, 18.04 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs) |
| Length | 5265 mm (207.28 in) |
| Width | 1949 mm (76.73 in) |
| Width including mirrors | 2111 mm (83.11 in) |
| Height | 1471 mm (57.91 in) |
| Wheelbase | 3122 mm (122.91 in) |
| Front track | 1644 mm (64.72 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1635 mm (64.37 in) |
| Front overhang | 1000 mm (39.37 in) |
| Rear overhang | 1143 mm (45 in) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.7 m (41.67 ft) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 9.0J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A8 L is the CTNA engine, a 6.3-liter W12 powerplant. This engine is essentially two narrow-angle VR6 engines sharing a common crankshaft, resulting in a remarkably smooth and refined power delivery. The CTNA utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI) to maximize efficiency and power output. The W12 boasts four valves per cylinder and a relatively high 11.5:1 compression ratio. The engine produces 500 horsepower at 6200 rpm and a substantial 625 Nm (460.98 lb-ft) of torque at 4750 rpm. Paired with this engine is an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, which provides smooth and quick shifts. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 500 hp W12 engine delivers effortless acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 4.5 seconds, and the car is electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. The Tiptronic transmission is well-tuned for both comfortable cruising and spirited driving. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the A8 L offers a refined and composed driving experience. The long wheelbase contributes to a smooth ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. Compared to the 4.2-liter V8, the W12 offers significantly more power and torque, resulting in a more responsive and engaging driving experience. The 3.0-liter TDI, while fuel-efficient, lacks the sheer power and refinement of the W12.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A8 L with the W12 engine came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. These included premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front and rear seats with massage functions, a panoramic sunroof, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and a sophisticated infotainment system with navigation. Optional extras included rear-seat entertainment, individual rear seats with a center console, and a variety of interior trim options. The A8 L was positioned as the flagship model, and as such, it offered a level of luxury and technology that surpassed all other A8 variants.
Chassis & Braking
The A8 L features an independent multi-link suspension at all four corners, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The adaptive air suspension system allows the driver to adjust the ride height and damping settings to suit their preferences. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system helps to maintain control in challenging driving conditions. The A8 L’s chassis is designed to balance comfort and handling, prioritizing a smooth and refined driving experience over outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A8 L W12 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. However, its high price tag and relatively poor fuel economy were often cited as drawbacks. Compared to rivals such as the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the A8 L offered a unique blend of German engineering and understated luxury. The W12 engine, while impressive, was less fuel-efficient than the V6 and V8 options, but it provided a significant performance advantage.
Legacy
The 6.3 FSI W12 engine in the D4 A8 L is known for its reliability, provided it receives regular maintenance. The Tiptronic transmission, while generally robust, can be expensive to repair if issues arise. In the used car market, the A8 L W12 holds its value relatively well due to its exclusivity and luxurious features. However, potential buyers should be aware of the higher maintenance costs associated with a vehicle of this complexity. The A8 L W12 represents a high point in Audi’s engineering prowess, offering a unique and compelling combination of power, luxury, and refinement.
