Audi A8/A8L

Impressions: The all-wheel-drive A8 isn't the most popular Audi that was ever built, but it has always led the lineup as a rolling showcase of the company's technological ability. The A8 begins with an all-aluminum space frame (a cage that supports the bolt-on body panels), to which Audi adds absolutely everything it has learned since the last A8 was unveiled in the mid-1990s, which, as it turns out, is substantial. For example, the suspension is completely pneumatic. That means there are no conventional springs of any kind. A computer constantly adapts the system to changes in the road surface. You can even raise the long-wheelbase A8 L to get through deep snow. Driver-operated systems, everything from entertainment to the suspension, are controlled through a console-mounted turn-and-push selector knob and a seven-inch screen. Under the hood is a new five-valve-per-cylinder 4.2-liter V8 that funnels 350 horsepower (up 15 from 2006) through the six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic manual control en route to the standard Quattro all-wheel-drive system. To say the A8 L has plenty of power amenities and a leather interior is stating the obvious and pales in comparison to what this larger-in-every-dimension automobile really has to offer, such as an optional 450-horsepower 12-cylinder engine (called the W12). For 2007, there's a new S8 performance model that's equipped with a 450-horsepower 5.2-liter V10, Quattro all-wheel drive, sport suspension and larger brakes and wheels. Other changes for 2007 are relegated to some options changes, although Audi can sign us up for its new 1,000-watt, 14-speaker premium audio system that's an option on all models. The extra-cost sport package (4.2 models) carries on with its larger wheels, a "sport" mode for the adaptive suspension as well as a unique steering wheel with integrated shift paddles. Base price: $68,900 Type: Four-door sedan Base engine (hp): 4.2-liter DOHC V8 (350); 6.0-liter DOHC W12 (450); 5.2-liter DOHC V10 (450, S8) Layout: Front-engine, all-wheel drive Transmission: Six-speed automatic Mileage (city/hwy): 17/24 (est.) Safety: Front airbags; front knee airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; anti-lock brakes; traction control; stability control; tire-pressure monitoring Weight (lb.): 4,400 Basic warranty: 4/50,000 Roadside assistance: Yes Web: www.audi.com