Audi’s all-new A8 flagship is the most technologically-advanced model to date. Available to the public in June of 2003, the ’04 A8 L (L for long wheel base) is the only vehicle you’ll ever need. Available in A8 and A8 L (long wheelbase), the A8 is equipped with such features as Quattro all-wheel-drive, a 4.2-liter, 330 horsepower V8 engine, and six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic. This sports sedan is hard to beat.

We were fascinated by all this modern technology, from the electric rear sunshade to Audi’s Multi Media Interface (MMI) intuitive onboard electronics management system, to the its dual monitors, one on the dash and one in the center of the IP.

My first day out in the A8 L, I sat in its cozy chamber, familiarizing myself with all the gadgets. Believe me, this is no small task. It wasn’t until Day 2 that I noticed Audi’s backup monitor that provides a close up look at what waits behind. Backing out of the driveway I was able to see just how close I was to the railroad ties edging the property. Getting too close elicited a beeping sound from the A8, much like the garbage truck makes when shifting into reverse.

We found the IP and dash, controls and monitor easier to operate than some. At least we could select our radio stations without having to go through the computer. Something that can become rather annoying. The interior lighting is subdued as well. All knobs are lit making it easier to work the window, for instance, and the control panel is less cluttered. We also liked that the large seven-inch color monitor folded into the top-center of the dash.

Audi’s previous A8, on sale since 1997, sold only 2,000 units in 2002. So, Audi hopes that the redesigned 2004-generation model will attract potential buyers, not only for its new look but also for its more competitive technological advances. Competing with the best of them, the A8 has a tough road to hoe. Beating the A8 by several units in 2000, BMW’s 7-series sedan sold 22,000 units. Also competing with the A8 in the luxury sedan market are the Jaguar XJ8 ($59,330), Mercedes Benz S500 ($81,000), Cadillac DeVille DTS ($49,150), and BMW 745Li ($72,500).

We found that some aspects of the A8 are more "up-to-date" than others; namely, the cupholders. Not big enough for most coffee cups or mugs. This seems an obvious oversight.

Audi’s Bose Premium sound system is excellent, with all 12-speakers, 12-inch subwoofer, and AM/FM/6-CD Changer, the sound is coming from just about every corner of the vehicle. The xenon headlights are quickly becoming a favorite of ours for nighttime driving, and someday, we’ll get used to the steering wheel-mounted radio controls. If we did it once, we did it six times, when turning the steering wheel we invariably changed the radio station.

Safety features are the most advanced around. With ten airbags, driver and passengers alike should be pretty safe. Knee and rear side airbags are included.

The A8 L is a big automobile to maneuver. The all-wheel-drive Quattro system is one of our favorites and there’s no question it offers superb handling, especially for a car this size. Navigating wet or snowy roads can be done with confidence, with both the AWD system and vehicle size in its favor.

Our test vehicle came equipped with several option packages, including the Cold Weather Package ($1,100), Convenience Package ($2,500), Launch Convenience Package LC1 ($1,200), Launch Convenience Package LC2 $2,000), Sunroof Solar Panel ($650), Front and Rear Parktronic ($700), 18-inch 5-spoke wheels with all-season tires ($1,150), and $150 for California Emissions Requirements.

If the $68,000+ price makes your knees weak, wait a couple of years and opt for a predriven A8. You’ll get a substantial savings, it will be broken in and you’ll enjoy years of driving pleasure with this luxo sedan.

Copyright 2003. Susan Frissell. Women With Wheels. All Rights Reserved.