AUDI has opened the order books on the latest version of the top-line A8 model it has just previewed in the US.
Even lighter than the aluminium car it replaces, the four wheel drive limousine harnesses a new eight-speed automatic transmission and energy recuperation technology to boast higher economy and lower tailpipe emissions across the range.
And in three-litre diesel form, another version of the flagship car will use stop-start technology to offer the lowest exhaust emissions figure in its class.
Priced from £54,760, the car will have significantly reworked petrol engines boasting between 13 and 23 per cent better economy but an extra diesel version with two-wheel drive will combine a 204PS power output with 47.1mpg average economy.
'The much improved efficiency of these engines is matched by our new eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission, which has an especially high overall gear ratio to reduce overall fuel consumption by around six per cent," said a spokesman at the car's debut in Miami.
'This unit is able to use route information from the navigation system to avoid unnecessary gear changes.'
According to Audi, A8 passengers are surrounded by high-quality workmanship, leading edge technology and luxury including leather upholstery, double-glazed windows and LED ambient lighting.
Adding to the generous equipment on the SE, the SE Executive features electrically operated boot closing, a parking system and 19-inch wheels at a £2,550 premium.