S8 Powerful V8 Engine

V8 TFSI engine

The new S8 takes its place at the head of the S model family - a large, luxurious saloon with supreme performance. Featuring the new 4.0 TFSI engine, it delivers 520 PS of power and a constant 650Nm of torque. The result is outstanding performance, with the sprint from 0-62mph taking just 4.2 seconds, and top speed capped electronically at 155mph.

Coupled to significant improvements in fuel consumption over its predecessor, the smooth twin-turbo V8 takes efficiency to new levels despite a 70 PS increase in output.

Driving the performance improvements are the combined technologies of the Audi modular efficiency platform, including the recuperation and start-stop systems. The newly developed "cylinder on demand" cylinder management system plays a particularly large role. By deactivating four of the eight cylinders when under part load, it optimizes the engine efficiency based on driving style and environment and is particularly pronounced at moderate motorway speeds.

Cylinder Management System

Audi's new Cylinder Management System lies at the very heart of the S8 performance and efficiency. The innovative system works on the "cylinder on demand" principle and deactivates certain engine cylinders when you're cruising or at low revs, but switches back in an instant when you need more power. This functionality improves the effectiveness of the V8 engine under different driving styles and conditions, and optimises efficiency and economy helping to lower both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

The switching between 4-cylinder and 8-cylinder operation is barely discernible, and is made even smoother by the additional Active Noise Cancellation system which compensates for any intrusive noise from individual engine speed-dependent frequencies. Via four concealed microphones in the interior headlining of the vehicle, cabin noise is recorded and then analysed by computer. If any intrusive sounds are detected, it broadcasts an anti-noise signal via the audio system which effectively cancels out the intrusive noise frequency.

A proud racing pedigree

Over 70 years of successful competitive motor racing, we've learnt a lot about building high-performance, class-leading cars. But the knowledge we've built on the track doesn't just stay there; a surprising amount of thoroughbred racing technology finds its way into our production cars. From the clarity of the instrumentation to the power of the engine, there's racing pedigree in every Audi.

Innovative efficiency measures

The improved fuel consumption of the new S8, despite the increase in power, is all down to the combined technologies of the Audi modular efficiency platform. These include the recuperation and start-stop systems, and the newly developed 'cylinder on demand' technology. The 8-speed tiptronic in the S8 also manages to seamlessly unite sportiness with efficiency.

All of these advanced technologies, combined with the innovative lightweight Audi Space Frame, have contributed to a decrease in fuel consumption and an increase in efficiency for the new head of the S family.