IF bigger is better then Audi can look forward to even more success with its top-range A8 long wheelbase which has just gone on sale in the UK.
Although its starting price is £60,010 Audi expects strong interest, even in the 500 bhp W12 version which tops £94,000.
There are five engine versions in the new A8 L range which has an extended wheelbase and body length of 130mm over the normal A8 which, not surprisingly, gives passengers even more comfort.
Engines are 3.0-litre TDI (250 bhp), the 4.2-litre TDI (350 bhp), the supercharged 3.0-litre TFSI (290 bhp), the 4.2-litre FSI (372 bhp) and the heavily reworked W12.
The 12-cylinder engine has been increased from 6.0-litres to 6.3-litres, and is now aided by FSI direct petrol injection for improved economy and emissions control.
The A8 L W12 now has a 0-62 mph sprint time of just 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of a limited 155 mph.
The new A8 L has double glazing and even more extensive use of fine Nappa leather than on the regular A8.
Technology includes a BOSE audio system linked to a hard drive-based “jukebox” capable of holding up to 8,000 songs, the MMI Touch fingertip navigation and telephone data entry system and a suite of sophisticated online services.