The 2022 Audi S8 might not stand out as much as its competitors like the BMW 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, but it deserves some recognition. While its design may lean towards the conservative side, the S8 boasts an impressive V8 engine, excellent driving dynamics, and a top-of-the-line interior.
Audi has made updates to the A8/S8 lineup for the 2022 model year, introducing new headlights and refreshed grilles. On the inside, the changes are more subtle with the major upgrade being a quicker processor for the infotainment system.
In an effort to enhance its performance, the 2022 Audi S8 now offers a new Predictive Active Suspension. This system combines air suspension with an electromagnetic setup that uses a front-facing camera to monitor road imperfections ahead. The 48-volt technology can react swiftly within 300 milliseconds to ensure a smooth ride, minimizing the impact of potholes. Additionally, the 48-volt system can adjust the suspension on each side of the S8 independently to reduce body roll during cornering, making the driving experience even more enjoyable.
The S8 is equipped with standard rear steering which allows the back wheels to turn up to 5 degrees. This feature reduces the S8’s turning radius by 3.6 feet to 38.7 feet, giving the S8 a more agile feel and making parking easier. Despite its large size, the combination of adaptive suspension and rear steering gives the S8 the handling characteristics of a smaller sedan.
Powering the S8 is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering 563 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. Paired with Quattro all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission, the S8 can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.8 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. The V8 engine provides ample power, and the transmission delivers quick shifts.
While the S8’s steering feels a bit light, even in the sportier Dynamic drive mode, the brakes offer strong stopping power. For a more comfortable ride, the Comfort+ drive mode lightens the steering, softens the suspension, and reduces throttle response.
Inside the cabin, standard features include the Virtual Cockpit digital gauge cluster and Audi’s MMI Touch multimedia system. The system comprises a 10.1-inch upper screen for infotainment functions and an 8.6-inch lower screen for climate controls and other settings. The S8 comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Most functions are controlled by haptic controls, which are user-friendly.
On the safety front, the S8 includes active driver assistance features such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high beams. The Executive package adds semi-autonomous adaptive cruise control, side and rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic sign recognition. The Predictive Active Suspension can even raise the ride height by 3.1 inches in 0.5 seconds in anticipation of a T-bone side impact collision.
The starting price for the 2022 Audi S8 is $117,995.
Overall, the S8 enhances the performance of Audi’s flagship sedan without compromising the comfort found in the standard A8. The S8’s engine is a standout feature, and the suspension strikes a great balance between sportiness and comfort.
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