The new Audi A8

Expected in 2017, we expect the car the new A8 to be similar to the Audi A6 in terms of body, with a new take on the trademark wide-mouthed grille. The new A8 will be packed with power, featuring a 48v electrical system like the one debuted in the new SQ7 according to Audi’s new technical development boss. Also featuring an electrically-powered compressor to boost low down response, this new ‘electric turbo’ technology will work in both hybrid and non-hybrid models. A plug-in version is also expected, although the mild-hybrid tech is expected first for a lower point of entry to the new luxury car range.

The looks won’t be the most impressive thing about the A8 however, with plenty of new technology set to make its debut. Gesture control is currently being developed for the interior displays, allowing in-car operations such as answering calls and controlling music to be upgraded from the humble button control. Audi are also streaking ahead with their lighting, moving on from the relatively new Matrix LED Technology to the integration of organic LEDs. Ricky Hudi, Head of Electronics at Audi, claims that the new technology will enable ‘new forms of expression and differentiation’, expected to be used mainly in the digital displays.

The most exciting new feature however will be Audi’s piloted driving autonomous car technology, using long-range radar sensors, 12 ultrasonic sensors, laser scanners and hi-res video cameras to constantly monitor the car’s surroundings. This system will be able to guide the car safely through traffic at speeds of up to 37mph.

The new A8 is set to be the hottest car of 2017, bringing a new meaning to the word luxury. If you can’t wait for its release, why not check out the current Audi A8 range now at Jardine Motors Audi? We promise it won’t disappoint.