The Audi A8 L (D4, 4H) 4.2 FSI V8 quattro Tiptronic represents the pinnacle of luxury and performance within the second generation (D4) of Audi’s flagship sedan. Produced from 2010 to 2012, this long-wheelbase variant was positioned as the premium offering, catering to buyers seeking a spacious, technologically advanced, and powerful executive car. It sat atop the A8 range, exceeding the capabilities of the 3.0 TFSI and 2.8 FSI models in both power and features. The D4 generation A8, built on the Volkswagen Group’s D4 platform (shared with the Porsche Panamera and Bentley Continental GT), aimed to redefine the luxury sedan segment with its blend of aluminum construction, advanced driver-assistance systems, and sophisticated interior.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A8 |
| Generation | A8L (D4, 4H) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2 FSI V8 (372 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 13.6 l/100 km (17.3 US mpg, 20.8 UK mpg, 7.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg, 10.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 224 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.1 kg/Hp, 197.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 236.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 372 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 445 Nm @ 3500 rpm (328.22 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CDRA |
| Engine displacement | 4163 cm3 (254.04 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1885 kg (4155.71 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2535 kg (5588.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 510 l (18.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 906 l (32 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 95 kg (209.44 lbs.) |
| Length | 5267 mm (207.36 in.) |
| Width | 1949 mm (76.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2111 mm (83.11 in.) |
| Height | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3122 mm (122.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1644 mm (64.72 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1003 mm (39.49 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1142 mm (44.96 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.7 m (41.67 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A8 L 4.2 FSI quattro is the CDRA engine, a 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine utilizes Audi’s FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) direct injection technology, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved efficiency and power. The engine boasts a high compression ratio of 12.5:1 and features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine produces 372 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 445 Nm (328 lb-ft) of torque at 3500 rpm. Paired with this engine is an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive gear changes. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.2 FSI V8, combined with the Tiptronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, delivers a refined and powerful driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 5.5 seconds, and the car feels effortlessly capable at highway speeds. The Tiptronic transmission offers both automatic and manual shift modes, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences. While not as fuel-efficient as the smaller displacement engines in the A8 lineup, the 4.2 FSI provides a satisfyingly robust power delivery throughout the rev range. Compared to the 3.0 TFSI supercharged V6, the 4.2 FSI offers a more linear power curve and a more traditional V8 sound. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip and stability, inspiring confidence in all driving conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A8 L 4.2 FSI quattro Tiptronic came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. These included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats with massage function, a premium sound system, a navigation system, and a sunroof. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, upgraded leather packages, and various exterior styling enhancements. The long-wheelbase configuration provided significantly more rear legroom than the standard A8, making it particularly appealing to chauffeur-driven executives.
Chassis & Braking
The A8 L features an aluminum space frame construction, contributing to its lightweight yet rigid chassis. The suspension system consists of independent multi-link suspension at the front and an independent trapezoidal lever suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system and anti-lock braking system (ABS) work in conjunction to enhance safety and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A8 L 4.2 FSI quattro Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its luxurious interior, powerful engine, and advanced technology. However, its relatively high price and fuel consumption were noted as potential drawbacks. Compared to its rivals, such as the BMW 750i and Mercedes-Benz S550, the A8 L offered a unique blend of German engineering, understated elegance, and technological innovation. The 4.2 FSI engine, while powerful, was less fuel-efficient than the turbocharged engines offered by its competitors.
Legacy
The Audi A8 L (D4) 4.2 FSI V8 quattro Tiptronic remains a desirable luxury sedan in the used car market. The CDRA engine, while requiring regular maintenance, is generally considered reliable. Common issues include oil consumption and potential problems with the timing chain tensioners. The advanced technology and luxurious features of the A8 L continue to appeal to buyers seeking a sophisticated and comfortable grand touring experience. Its aluminum construction and advanced engineering represent a significant step forward in luxury car design and continue to influence Audi’s engineering philosophy today.
