Expected to be launched at the 2014 Auto Expo held earlier this year, Audi’s flagship saloon the 2014 A8 facelift has finally been launched in India with subtle changes and the inclusion of the revolutionary Matrix LED headlights. The facelift model features updates to the engines that are now more powerful with improved fuel efficiency. Interestingly, Audi chose to hold the launch event in Dubai with Hollywood superstar Nicholas Cage gracing his presence at the event.
Changes on the 2014 Audi A8 facelift include a revised grille, redesigned bumpers and the inclusion of the very prominent Matrix LED headlights that look nothing like conventional lights. The rear gets razor sharper tail lights with squared exhaust tips. The alloy wheels also feature an all new design. Step inside and a host of luxury options are available on offer with updated controls and multimedia interface. Audi is offering the 2014 A8 with 111 exterior colours, 23 leather colours and 12 options of wood inserts. Customers can also emboss personal logos on the seats, as part of the customisation program.
Coming to the major USP of the 2014 Audi A8; the all new Matrix LED headlight technology houses 25 individually controlled LEDs which automatically split their beam according to the road conditions, oncoming traffic and turns. The new light technology detects oncoming and preceding vehicles and blanks out the light that would shine directly on them, but continues to illuminate other zones of the road. The sequential turn indicators that light up in the direction of the turn are pure eye candy. The German manufacturer also insists on having improved reduction of outside noise into the cabin.
In terms of powertrain, the 2014 Audi A8 will be available in two diesel engine options. The 3.0-litre TDI engine now produces 258 BHP and the 4.2-litre V8 TDI engine produces 385 BHP of power. Audi is also offering the 4.0-litre V8 TFSI petrol motor that produces 435 BHP of power (0-100 km/hr in 4.6 seconds). The Audi A8 has been updated to give some competition to the all new Mercedes S-Class, Jaguar XJL and the BMW 7-Series. Being brought in via the CBU route, the A8 has been priced on a steeper side. The Audi A8 3.0-litre TDI variant has been priced at Rs. 1.12 crore (ex-showroom, Delhi), while prices for the rest of the range are yet to revealed.
