2016 Audi A8 L Review: Timeless Luxury Meets Aging Tech

Introduction: A Flagship Approaching Transition

The 2016 Audi A8 L represents the culmination of a generation that first debuted in 2010, showcasing the brand's commitment to understated elegance and technological innovation. While competitors like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series have undergone complete redesigns in recent years, the A8 soldiers on with incremental updates, maintaining its position as one of the most refined luxury sedans available.

What the A8 lacks in cutting-edge tech features, it makes up for with an exceptionally balanced driving experience and one of the most meticulously crafted interiors in its class. The available W12 engine option continues to serve as Audi's halo powertrain, while the more common 4.0T V8 delivers nearly equal performance with better fuel economy.

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Exterior Design: Evolutionary Elegance

Audi's design language has remained remarkably consistent over the past two decades, and the 2016 A8 L exemplifies the brand's commitment to clean, aerodynamic styling. While some might criticize the lack of dramatic changes, the subtle evolution of the A8's appearance has created a timeless aesthetic that avoids looking dated.

Signature Lighting Technology

The 2016 model features full LED headlights as standard equipment, with available matrix-beam LED technology that automatically adjusts high beams to avoid dazzling other drivers. The distinctive LED daytime running lights have become an Audi trademark, providing instant brand recognition.

Wheel Options and Proportions

New for 2016 were several wheel designs ranging from 18-inch to 20-inch diameters. The A8 L's extended wheelbase (compared to the standard A8) creates a more formal profile with additional rear legroom, while maintaining perfect proportions that avoid the stretched appearance of some competitors' long-wheelbase models.

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Powertrain and Performance

The 2016 Audi A8 L offered three engine options in the U.S. market, all paired with an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive:

The 4.0T V8 represents the sweet spot in the lineup, delivering effortless acceleration with a broad torque curve that makes passing maneuvers completely stress-free. The W12 engine serves primarily as a status symbol, offering marginally better performance than the V8 at significantly higher cost and worse fuel economy.

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Driving Dynamics and Comfort

Audi's engineering priorities for the A8 L clearly favored comfort over sportiness, resulting in one of the most serene driving experiences in the luxury segment. The adaptive air suspension system effortlessly absorbs road imperfections while maintaining composed handling.

Quattro All-Wheel Drive System

The standard Quattro system provides exceptional traction in all weather conditions, with a default 40:60 front/rear torque split that can vary as needed. While not as rear-biased as some competitors' systems, the Quattro setup delivers secure, predictable handling characteristics.

Noise Isolation and Refinement

Double-pane acoustic glass and extensive sound-deadening materials create an exceptionally quiet cabin. The only notable intrusion comes from tire noise on certain road surfaces, a common issue with large-diameter, low-profile tires.

Interior Luxury and Craftsmanship

Where the A8 truly shines is in its impeccable interior execution. Every surface you see or touch conveys quality, from the genuine metal trim to the available Valcona leather upholstery with diamond stitching.

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Seating Comfort and Space

Front seats offer 22-way power adjustment with massage and ventilation functions. The rear compartment provides limousine-like legroom, especially with the optional Executive Rear Seating package that adds power reclining, additional adjustment, and footrests.

Materials and Build Quality

Audi's reputation for precision engineering is evident throughout the cabin. Switchgear operates with perfect damping, gaps are uniform, and materials feel substantial. The attention to detail surpasses most competitors, including BMW and Cadillac.

Technology and Infotainment

This is where the 2016 A8 shows its age most noticeably. While the core systems function well, they lack modern connectivity features that have become expected in luxury vehicles.