Automotive

ThomasM
[PuristS]
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Quick Looks: 2013 Audi S8

Pros: Effortless, seemingless endless amounts of power on tap. It doesn't seem surge-y at all, despite being a forced induction engine (twin turbo); it just comes on early on and builds and builds and builds until you let off the throttle. Torquey and powerful.

The ride is both comfortable and decently controlled - little body roll, dynamic transitions are smooth and subtle, and, granted, there is a c.600 lb weight advantage over the M-B S63 (S8 4300 lb vs S63 4900 lb) but the FEEL of the S8 in terms of agility and dynamic transitions gives the feeling it is MUCH lighter.

Interior trim is both high quality and Teutonic austere - to the point, very little frills or flourishes.

I wish the dash command navigation wheel was a little closer to where the hands naturally fall in a normal seating position, without having to reach, and the window and dash controls were slightly angled towards the natural range of motion perimeter while seated, but these shortcomings are not severe enough to count as cons.  The upholstery seems of high quality without being overly delicate for what are, obviously, high wear and high stress surfaces.

Some might complain the exterior is a bit too understated, too austere; I can easily see it as a plus, especially in these tense, uncertain times.

Cons: I'd like a little more immediacey, a little more synaptic intimacy in the responses and feel of the drive train and suspension, but I have to keep reminding myself this is an Audi 8 class, comparable to the S class M-B or 7 series BMW, not E or 5.  In that context, it is hands down more intimate and "feel-ful" than its German competition (the British offerings are handicapped in terms of interior space utilization. Put bluntly, who the hell were the rear seats designed for?!?)

General Comments: A large sedan that reminds me, from the driver's seat, more of a mid-size, the compromises mostly fit me to a T - I'd likely choose the same compromises if I were making the decisions.

'nuf said.

Conc: I'd be impressed at $130,000 or more; at just over $100,000 the value proposition is almost irresistible.

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note: This is the second time I've had a chance to do some "spirited" driving on public roads in the last few months, on tight, smooth winding roads. My positive feelings are consistent and remain positive (not as common a scenario as one might think)