Car reviews

The S8 is the most sporting of the A8 range, but shares the role of flagship with the pricier long-wheelbase A8 W12 quattro. Both have the same power output and near identical performance figures (from different engines), but the S8 is the one to pick if you plan on doing the driving - the longer and even better equipped W12 is for those who like to be chauffeured. The S8 delivers the impressive standards of comfort, equipment and build quality expected of a car in this price bracket and it is very fast. It resists the aggressive 'get out of my way' day-time running lights of its junior, the S6, but the 20-inch wheels, V10 badges and sheer size ensure there's no lack of presence.