Audi is planning to introduce the next-gen Audi A8 lineup, which was previously caught testing in October last year. The prototype spied previously appeared to be a standard variant, whereas this recently spied tester features four exhaust tips, which made us believe this is the range-topping 2018 Audi S8 variant.
Besides the exhaust tips, other new elements include updated bumpers and enhanced brakes. Powering the 2018 Audi S8 will be a twin-turbocharged 4.0L V8 engine generating about 605 horsepower and 533 pounds-feet of torque. The power will be distributed to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission system.
The next-gen Audi A8 lineup will ride on the Volkswagen Group’s latest’s MLB platform, which will help in minimizing the overall weight, and would also support the latest electronic driving aids.
Talking about the exterior design, Audi previewed the Prologue concept in 2014 at the Los Angeles Auto Show, and it seems the new A8 will closely resemble this concept model. The new A8 will also be the first Audi vehicle to offer some advanced full autonomous functions such as ‘Traffic Jam Pilot’ and more.
The standard Audi A8 is expected to arrive later this year, whereas the 2018 Audi S8 might debut sometime next year.