An E-Tron version of the S8 Plus could replace it.
Several times the performance-oriented version Audi’s flagship sedan have been seen. Auto Bild now suggests that an official unveiling will occur later in the year. Although the report doesn’t give too much information about the , it’s easy to see how it will look and what will be hidden beneath that long, imposing hood.
It will still be Audi S business. The exterior styling won’t change as it will have a typical Audi S body kit and quad exhaust tips. The S8 recipe also requires larger wheels and a more powerful set of brakes. However, those who don’t care about fast Audis won’t notice the difference between the standard and go-faster versions.
Auto Bild may allow for a downsizing of the engine to a biturbo V6 engine of 2.9-liters, but it is likely that the new S8 will have a 4.0-liter V8 along with two turbochargers. This engine should share a lot with the eight-cylinder powerhouse of the Porsche Panamera Turbo, and will produce well above 500 horsepower in the new application.
An E-Tron version of the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid will follow. It will be more focused on performance than efficiency. Rumours suggest that the electrified powertrain will come from the Panamera Turbo S E–Hybrid. This means combined output will easily surpass 600 horsepower considering the Porsche’s 680 horsepower punch.
An RS8 is unlikely, as Audi Sport stated that it will prioritize the development of RS-badged SUVs. There is a silver lining: The four-ring company just launched something very similar to the RS sedan, called the RS5 Sportback. It will first be available in the United States, then it will come to Europe.
Referring to the S8, it is possible that the Paris Motor Show, which starts in October, will be the place where Audi will show off its sporty full-size sedan before it goes on sale in late 2018 or early 2019.
The W12 version of your new Audi will have more cylinders. This is your last chance to purchase it. Ingolstadt’s next generation range topper will drop its biturbo-6.0-liter unit that is shared with Bentley.