The Audi S8 (D5, facelift 2021) represents the pinnacle of luxury performance within the fourth generation of Audi’s flagship sedan. Introduced in December 2021, this iteration of the S8 builds upon the already sophisticated D5 platform (shared with the A8) and incorporates a significant facelift, focusing on enhanced technology, styling refinements, and a continued emphasis on a powerful yet comfortable driving experience. Positioned as the high-performance variant of the A8, the S8 competes directly with other luxury performance sedans such as the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. This specific configuration features a 4.0 TFSI V8 engine producing 571 horsepower, coupled with a mild-hybrid system and Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, managed by an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S8 |
| Generation | S8 (D5, facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 TFSI V8 (571 Hp) Mild Hybrid quattro tiptronic |
| Start of production | December, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 20.5 l/100 km (11.5 US mpg, 13.8 UK mpg, 4.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 12 l/100 km (19.6 US mpg, 23.5 UK mpg, 8.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 11.5 l/100 km (20.5 US mpg, 24.6 UK mpg, 8.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 261 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 15.1 l/100 km (15.6 US mpg, 18.7 UK mpg, 6.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg, 26.2 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 246 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.9 kg/Hp, 257.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm, 360.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 571 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 142.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 800 Nm @ 2050-4500 rpm (590.05 lb.-ft. @ 2050-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CWWB |
| 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 | 10.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt, 8.36 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 16.3 l (17.22 US qt, 14.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2220 kg (4894.26 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2835 kg (6250.11 lbs.) |
| Max load | 615 kg (1355.84 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 505 l (17.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal, 18.04 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| 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.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 95 kg (209.44 lbs.) |
| Length | 5190 mm (204.33 in.) |
| Width | 1945 mm (76.57 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2130 mm (83.86 in.) |
| Height | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2998 mm (118.03 in.) |
| Front track | 1629 mm (64.13 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1007 mm (39.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1185 mm (46.65 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 11° |
| Departure angle | 14° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive all four wheels |
| 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, 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 Steering |
| Tires size | 265/40 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi S8 (D5, facelift 2021) is a luxury performance sedan that represents the top tier of Audi’s A8 model range. The D5 generation, launched in 2017, received a significant facelift in 2021, bringing updated styling, enhanced technology, and refinements to the powertrain. This particular variant, equipped with the 4.0 TFSI V8 engine, mild-hybrid system, and quattro all-wheel drive, is designed to deliver exhilarating performance combined with the comfort and refinement expected of a flagship luxury vehicle. It serves as a direct competitor to high-performance versions of the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, appealing to buyers who prioritize both power and prestige.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the S8 is Audi’s 4.0 TFSI V8 engine, designated as the CWWB code. This engine is a twin-turbocharged, direct-injection powerplant displacing 3,996 cubic centimeters (243.85 cubic inches). The engine produces 571 horsepower at 6000 rpm and a substantial 800 Nm (590.05 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 2050 to 4500 rpm. The direct injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, maximizing efficiency and power output. The engine also features a cylinder deactivation system, which can shut down cylinders under light load conditions to further improve fuel economy. The mild-hybrid system, utilizing a 48-volt electrical architecture, provides a power boost and enables features like extended coasting and smoother start-stop operation. The engine is paired with Audi’s eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission, which offers quick and smooth gear changes. The transmission is specifically tuned to handle the high torque output of the V8 engine and provides both automatic and manual shift modes.
Driving Characteristics
The 2021 S8 delivers a driving experience that is both remarkably powerful and surprisingly refined. The combination of the potent V8 engine, the quick-shifting tiptronic transmission, and the quattro all-wheel-drive system results in blistering acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. The quattro system provides exceptional traction in all weather conditions, distributing power between the front and rear axles as needed. The air suspension, standard on the S8, contributes to a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing a confident feel. While the S8 is undoubtedly a performance-oriented vehicle, it doesn’t sacrifice comfort. The cabin is well-insulated, minimizing road and wind noise, and the suspension effectively isolates passengers from harshness. Compared to lower-powered A8 variants, the S8 offers a significantly more engaging and dynamic driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S8 comes standard with a comprehensive array of luxury and technology features. Interior appointments include Valcona leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats with massage functions, and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system. The dashboard features Audi’s MMI touch response system, with dual touchscreens controlling infotainment and vehicle settings. Standard driver-assistance features include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system. Optional extras include a rear-seat entertainment system, a head-up display, and carbon fiber trim elements. The S8’s interior is designed to create a luxurious and technologically advanced environment for both the driver and passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The S8 utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear, enhanced by Audi’s adaptive air suspension. This system allows the ride height to be adjusted, providing a balance between comfort and handling. The air suspension also features electronic damping control, which adjusts the damper settings in real-time to optimize ride quality and stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The S8 also incorporates Audi’s ABS (Anti-lock braking system) and 4-wheel steering (4WS) for enhanced stability and maneuverability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2021 Audi S8 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and advanced technology. However, some reviewers noted that its fuel economy is relatively low, and its price is high compared to other luxury performance sedans. Compared to the standard A8, the S8 offers a significantly more engaging driving experience and a more aggressive appearance. Compared to its rivals, the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the S8 offers a unique blend of performance, luxury, and technology. The S8’s quattro all-wheel-drive system provides an advantage in inclement weather, while its advanced driver-assistance features enhance safety and convenience.
Legacy
The 4.0 TFSI V8 engine, in various iterations, has proven to be a reliable and durable powerplant. While the complex technology of the D5 S8, including the mild-hybrid system and advanced infotainment, may require more specialized maintenance, the core engine components are generally robust. On the used car market, the 2021 S8 holds its value well, reflecting its prestige and performance capabilities. However, potential buyers should be aware of the higher maintenance costs associated with a high-performance luxury vehicle and ensure a thorough inspection before purchase.
