New Audi A8L spied in India, expected launch in second half of 2018

The next-generation Audi A8L has been spied testing on Indian roads by AutocarIndia. Audi is expected to launch the long wheelbase car in the country in the second half of 2018. When launched in India, the new A8L will compete with the likes of Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the BMW 7-Series. The German car manufacturer unveiled the new Audi A8 in Barcelona in July this year with new technologies. The 2018 A8 will be available in India in long-wheelbase version and will be lighter than the outgoing model. The company has used aluminium, steel magnesium and carbon fibre materials to reduce the overall weight of the luxury sedan. Dimension wise, the long-wheelbase A8L measures 5,302 mm in length, 1,945 mm in width, 1,488 mm in height and has a wheelbase of 3,128 mm.

The other new technologies that the new A8L will come equipped with include connectivity, piloted driving, digital services, and it will have a new design language as well. The new Audi A8 will get optional Traffic Jam Pilot system that assists in driving at speeds of up to 50 kmph. In addition, the carmaker will equip AI (Artificial Intelligence) technology that the brand says will make it easier to drive and safe for the occupants by adapting to individual needs. However, it is not yet confirmed by the carmaker whether these new technologies will be available in the India model.

The exterior design of the car takes its inspiration from the Prologue concept that was showcased in 2014. The new A8L will feature a large single-frame front grille, laser headlamps as well as daytime running lights with matrix lamps.

Also Read: 2018 Audi Q8 spied in India for the first time: India launch next year

On the inside, Audi A8L will have a newly designed multi-function steering wheel and touchscreen controls similar to the Prologue concept. Features like new lightweight front seats, HD digital instrument with graphics and a new MMI (Multimedia Interface) system with two displays, a 10.1-inch and an 8.6-inch unit will also be equipped on the new A8L.

The A8 is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 turbo TDI diesel engine that produces 286 hp and a 3.0-litre TFSI petrol unit with 340 hp of power. It will also be available with a 4.0-litre TDI diesel with 435 hp and a 4.0-litre TFSI petrol engine with 460 hp. The larger 6.0-litre W12 engine will be available in the top version. Besides this, all the engines will get Audi's mild-hybrid technology, which is powered by a 48-volt electrical system. This will also be the first model to have a fully electric version. The India version is likely to get a 3.0-litre, six-cylinder TDI diesel engine that will generate 250 hp of power and 500 Nm of peak torque.

Image Source: AutocarIndia.com