Audi is taking a swing at the Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, rolling out a more powerful version of its sporty full size sedan the S8 dubbed the S8 Plus. The model, which will become available at the end of November, offers Audi customers a more powerful version of the S8’s 4.0-liter TFSI V8, in addition to enhanced driving dynamics and a higher top speed.
In the S8 Plus, Audi’s 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 produces 605 horsepower, a significant 85 horsepower bump from the standard car. The power boost has come courtesy of some engine management tuning, changes to the turbocharger and modified exhaust valves and effectively makes the S8 the most powerful full-size sedan on offer apart from the V12 S65 AMG.
The engine calibration changes have also helped boost torque in the S8 Plus to 516 lb-ft, a gain of 35 lb-ft. An overboost function can also briefly raise torque levels to 535 lb-ft, helping the S8 Plus accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds and reach a governed top speed of 155 mph. The speed limiter can also be taken off, increasing the top end to 189 mph.
The removal of the speed limiter is intertwined with Audi’s dynamic package, which is a standard feature in Germany. The pack adds carbon ceramic brakes with Audi-branded grey brake calipers and a sport exhaust system, giving the S8 plus an “unmistakably sporty V8 sound characteristic,” Audi says.
Other options apart from the dynamic package include a carbon fiber rear lip spoiler, gloss painted mirror caps, ambient lighting, a ‘convenience key’, a full-leather interior package, Alcantara package, power-assisted door closing and a DVD/CD changer. The ‘Audi assistance’ package is also standard equipment in Germany and adds Audi pre sense plus, four-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning system, a Bose surround sound system and MMI navigation plus with MMI touch.
The Audi S8 Plus will start at 145,200 euros in Germany when it goes on sale in the fourth quarter of this year. However as with other high-end luxury cars, going crazy with the options list will cause that number to quickly swell.
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