New 2009 Audi A8

Less austere and more contemporary than other cars in its class, the 2009 Audi A8 is the company's largest luxury sedan.  The 2009 model includes most of the premium package options from the 2008.

The car's regular length is 199.3 inches, but an extended L edition increases this by five inches, really expanding the amount of rear leg room.  These models both boast a 4.2-liter, 350-horsepower V-8 engine, with an available Sport Package.  Audi’s distinctive, wide, trapezoidal grille is now featured on all A8 models.  This grille was initially only offered on the more powerful W12's - which feature Audi's top-of-the-line engine, a 6.0-liter, 450-horsepower 12-cylinder, as well as the longer length of the L edition.  All editions include 6-speed semi-automatic or manual transmissions with the Tiptronic system, originally developed by Porsche.

Anti-lock brakes, an electronic stability system and ten airbags are standard on the A8, as are a full security system and panic alarm.  Additional safety features, such as a blind spot sensor and lane departure warning system are optional.

Creature comforts available across the board include leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, 16-way power front seats w/power lumbar adjustment, keyless entry, power sunroof, a Bose speaker system, satellite radio and a navigation system w/voice recognition.  The W12 adds a DVD entertainment system.  Optional amenities include several custom variations (such as the aforementioned Sports Package), as well as a rear refrigerator, a complete leather upgrade and a handsome wood, leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Expect to get between 15 and 16 mpg in the city, regardless of the trim, and 23 mpg on the highway.  This is similar to comparable vehicles from BMW or Mercedes, as is the cost, ranging anywhere from $74,050 to the base model, $77,900 for the extended L edition and $120,100 for the souped-up W12.

The 2009 Audi A8 remains a truly sophisticated piece of machinery, both inside and out, combining strong performance with tasteful elegance.