2009 Audi S8

Bang & Olufsen Sound System
Comprising 14 speakers, 1,000 watts and front tweeters that retract down into the dash when the car is turned off, the A8's optional B&O audio system is among the most sophisticated (and expensive) factory sound systems ever.

Alcantara Headliner
There's just something about the S8's suede-like Alcantara headliner that ups the warmth and exclusivity factors by several notches.

Trimmed in brushed aluminum and excellent wood or carbon fiber, the S8's cabin perfectly complements the car's sport-luxury character. A suede-like Alcantara headliner gives a particular richness to the interior, while an optional full leather upgrade adds leather to the dash and doors. Audi's MMI system is less confusing than BMW's iDrive system, but not as intuitive as the newest COMAND system we've sampled in Mercedes' latest S-Class. The backseat is big enough to make you question the necessity of the car's long-wheelbase A8L cousin.

Depending on whom you ask, the S8's subtle styling is either one of its greatest strengths or one of its biggest weaknesses. Either way, the newest S8 and A8 are more easily distinguishable from each other than in previous years. Working from front to rear, the S8 has a revised front grille and fascia, unique 20-inch wheels, S8-emblazoned brake calipers, aluminum-like mirror housings, a trunk lid-integrated rear spoiler, four oval tailpipes and, of course, unique badges. The S8 also features Bi-xenon headlamps and bright white LED daytime running lights.

With a slightly larger, direct-injected, 450-horsepower version of the 500-horsepower V10 found in its Lamborghini Gallardo corporate cousin, the S8 will sprint to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds on its way to an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph. A six-speed Tiptronic transmission (featuring steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters) directs the power to a rear-biased quattro all-wheel drive system. In addition to a sportier adaptive air suspension, the S8 also gets a more direct steering ratio and bigger brakes than the A8. With the advantage of an aluminum space frame, the S8 weighs only 100 pounds more than the smaller S6.

5.2-liter V10
450 horsepower @ 7000 rpm
398 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 13/19