The Audi S8 (D4 facelift) 4.0 TFSI COD V8 plus quattro Tiptronic, produced from 2015 to 2018, represents the pinnacle of performance within the D4 generation of Audi’s flagship luxury sedan. This variant, positioned as the highest-performance iteration of the S8, built upon the mid-cycle refresh of the D4 platform (introduced in 2013) and aimed to deliver uncompromising power and refinement. It served as Audi’s answer to high-performance luxury sedans from rivals like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, offering a blend of sophisticated technology, opulent comfort, and exhilarating acceleration. The “COD” designation refers to Cylinder On Demand, a fuel-saving technology that deactivates cylinders under light load.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S8 |
| Generation | S8 (D4 facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 TFSI COD V8 plus (605 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 13.7 l/100 km (17.2 US mpg, 20.6 UK mpg, 7.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 231 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 305 km/h (189.52 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.3 kg/Hp, 304 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 376.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 605 Hp @ 6100-6800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 151.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 750 Nm @ 2500-5500 rpm (553.17 lb.-ft. @ 2500-5500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DDTA |
| Engine displacement | 3993 cm3 (243.67 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.7 l (9.19 US qt | 7.65 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.8 l (15.64 US qt | 13.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1990 kg (4387.2 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2590 kg (5709.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal | 18.04 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 | 5147 mm (202.64 in.) |
| Width | 1949 mm (76.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2111 mm (83.11 in.) |
| Height | 1458 mm (57.4 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2994 mm (117.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1632 mm (64.25 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1623 mm (63.9 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1012 mm (39.84 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1141 mm (44.92 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| 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 |
| Tires size | 265/40 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 9.0J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S8 plus is the 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, designated internally as the DDTA. This engine produces 605 horsepower at 6100-6800 rpm and a substantial 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque between 2500 and 5500 rpm. The engine utilizes Audi’s Cylinder On Demand (COD) technology, which shuts down cylinders 4, 5, 6, and 7 during low-load cruising to improve fuel efficiency. Direct fuel injection and a sophisticated engine management system contribute to both performance and economy. The engine’s valvetrain employs double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. The eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, a staple of Audi’s performance models, is specifically tuned for rapid and smooth gear changes. The transmission features a torque converter and allows for manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Driving Characteristics
The S8 plus delivers breathtaking acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 189.52 mph (305 km/h). The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The eight-speed Tiptronic transmission is well-matched to the engine’s power delivery, offering quick shifts and a responsive feel. Compared to the standard S8 or the diesel-powered TDI variants, the S8 plus offers a significantly more aggressive and engaging driving experience. The lower gear ratios prioritize acceleration, while the engine’s abundant torque provides effortless passing power. While the COD system aids fuel economy, it’s barely noticeable during normal driving, and the transition between eight and four cylinders is seamless.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S8 plus came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury and technology features. Interior appointments included Valcona leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats with massage function, and carbon fiber trim. Standard technology included Audi’s MMI navigation plus system with touch response, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and a suite of driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and night vision. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, a panoramic sunroof, and various customization options for interior trim and exterior paint.
Chassis & Braking
The S8 plus features a sophisticated chassis designed to balance comfort and handling. The suspension utilizes an adaptive air suspension system, allowing the driver to adjust the ride height and damping characteristics. The standard brakes consist of ventilated discs all around, with large calipers providing ample stopping power. Carbon ceramic brakes were available as an option, offering even greater stopping performance and fade resistance. The steering system is a speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion setup, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S8 plus was widely praised by automotive critics for its exceptional performance, luxurious interior, and advanced technology. It was often compared favorably to rivals such as the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. While fuel economy was not a primary focus, the COD system helped to mitigate the impact of the powerful V8 engine. Reliability was generally good, although the complex engine and transmission systems could be expensive to repair. Compared to the standard S8, the plus model offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying its higher price tag for enthusiasts seeking the ultimate in luxury performance.
Legacy
The Audi S8 (D4 facelift) 4.0 TFSI COD V8 plus quattro Tiptronic remains a highly desirable vehicle in the used car market. Its combination of performance, luxury, and technology continues to appeal to discerning buyers. The 4.0 TFSI engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively durable with proper maintenance. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for costly repairs associated with the turbochargers, fuel injectors, and transmission. The S8 plus represents a high point in Audi’s engineering prowess, offering a compelling blend of performance and refinement that continues to impress today.
