2017 Audi S8 Pros vs Cons
New for 2017
As of 2016, Audi discontinued production of the standard S8. For 2017, it is only available in the more sporty S8 Plus version, which offers new interior color combinations and black leather upholstery with red stitching.
Ten Reasons You May Like the 2017 Audi S8 – The Pros
1.Performance
The person considering this car will appreciate that, with the right package, the 2017 S8 has the ability to go as fast as 190 miles per hour. We don't recommend testing this speed on the highway, but this type of performance is beyond impressive, especially for a full-size sedan.
A standard turbocharged V8 engine is the natural choice for this type of vehicle, and it makes for extremely fast acceleration with 605 horsepower and 517 pound-feet of torque. Audi’s signature Quattro all-wheel drive system allows the S8 to navigate turns and curves with smooth confidence. In terms of air suspension, they have given drivers several options. You can choose Comfort mode, the more firm Dynamic mode, or allow the car’s computer to choose the right setting in Automatic mode.
2. Safety
While consumers will appreciate the speed and performance that the 2017 Audi S8 is capable of, they also want to be certain that the vehicle they are driving is safe. The S8 includes all of the safety features that come standard on most vehicles, but it goes above and beyond by offering advanced safety options.
Active lane assist not only alerts the driver when they are drifting into another lane, but it also steers them back to the appropriate lane. Audi’s Pre Sense system provides a greater sense of security by alerting drivers to potential collisions and automatically activating the car’s brake system to prevent a crash or decrease the severity of one.
3. Luxurious Interior
Drivers considering this vehicle will be expecting a superior standard of interior luxury, and Audi has not disappointed in this area. Inside, they will find diamond-stitched leather upholstery and a choice between wood or carbon fiber accents. Drivers and passengers alike will enjoy heated and ventilated seats that also have massage features. The seats offer four-way power lumbar adjustment, and there is also four-zone automatic climate-control so that everyone is comfortable.
4. Audi Odor Team
Audi actually has an Odor Team, warmly referred to as the ‘Nose Team’, that works hard to make sure that there are consistently pleasant smells inside of the car. They will not install materials that have a chance of emitting foul odors, and they even ensure that no materials are included that may produce negative emissions.
5. Optional Features
If you feel the need to add more detail beyond the amenities that already come standard, then there are several package options that will allow you to customize the S8 to your satisfaction. The Driver Assistance package offers the Pre Sense Plus advanced collision detection system, and the Dynamic package includes the ability to reach a speed of up to 190 miles per hour. The Cold Weather package adds a heated steering wheel and a rear center seat pass-through to make room for large equipment, and the Full Leather package allows the choice of expanded trim and accent options.
6. Quiet Cabin
For a vehicle with sports car qualities, the ride inside of the cabin is surprisingly quiet. While you’re zooming around town, or on a long trip on the open road, not having to adjust to high noise levels inside of the car will make the ride even more comfortable and enjoyable. This sets the S8 apart from other vehicles with similar performance capacity.
7. Bang & Olufsen Audio System
A vehicle of this caliber needs a premium sound system, and Audi has been sure to deliver in this area by offering the option of installing a Bang & Olufsen audio system. This 19-speaker, 1,400 watt, top of the line system is sure to enhance an already amazing driving experience. While it does not come standard, it is certainly an enticing add-on feature.
8. Technology
The 2017 Audi S8 is equipped with advanced built-in technology through Audi’s standard MMI navigation plus system. This includes a Google Maps Interface for navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot for up to eight passenger devices, local traffic and weather updates, flight information and news.
9. Exterior Design
All of the things previously described are wonderful, but let’s face it; buyers want to purchase a car that looks amazing. With its beautiful lines and contours, not to mention the well-known Audi Singleframe front grille, the 2017 Audi S8 has been expertly engineered to be quite pleasing to the eye.
10. Audi Service Quality
When you purchase the 2017 Audi S8, you can be certain that you are purchasing a superior vehicle that epitomizes their company slogan of ‘progress through technology’. The company has consistently high J.D. Power Ratings in the areas of performance and dependability, and drivers can have peace of mind with the 48 month/50,000 mile warranty.
Reasons You May Not Like the 2017 Audi S8 – The Cons
1. Only One Trim
Although packages are available to enhance the standard model, some may still find that having only one trim available does not offer enough flexibility.
2. Small Trunk Size
For a full-sized vehicle, drivers may find the trunk size to be smaller than expected. Drivers who need to place a lot of items in their trunk could possibly see this as a drawback.
3. Rear Leg Room
While the 2017 Audi S8 boasts a rather comfortable ride, compared to some of its competitors, there is not as much leg room in the back seat. Depending on the size of your normal passenger, this may be a deterrent.
How the S8 Stacks Up to the Competition
The 2017 Audi S8 is comparable to the BMW Alpina B7, the Porsche Panamera and the Mercedes Benz S-Class. The great thing about the S8, however, is that it offers most of the same standard features and amenities as the others, but it has the lowest sticker price. This makes it the best value.
Conclusion
When you consider all that the 2017 Audi S8 has to offer, it is a natural choice for buyers looking for robust performance with all of the style and comfort of a luxury sedan. Even when considering its drawbacks, drivers who choose to purchase it can be certain that they have made an excellent choice.
