2010 Audi A8 Review
Price
from: RM750,000
to: RM900,000
Installment
from: RM7,153/mth
to: RM8,583/mth
2010 Audi A8 at a glance
The 2010 Audi A8 has plenty of brilliant qualities, such as a world-class cabin, refined on-road ability and its aura of luxury. But the styling may be perceived as bland and competitors are lower-priced.
2010 Audi A8 quick specs
| Body Style | Sedan |
| Class | Large Luxury |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
2010 Audi A8 ratings (overall rating : 4/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
Judging the styling of a car is often subjective, and while many may find a car of this price to be overly-bland, some others may find the 2010 Audi A8 the ultimate representation of understatement. For us the exterior is too similar to an Audi A6. Side-by-side, it is hard to tell them apart if not for the extra length. Inside, the story takes a big turn as we think the cabin might just be the best out there, even when compared to more expensive cars'. A truly special cabin, indeed.
Handling
The 2010 Audi A8 handles with confidence that belies its large mass; the weight-saving aluminium body construction helping here. There is plenty of grip and composure through corners. Body control is tidy without excessive body roll. Only the overly-light steering blemishes the overall driving experience. But the speed-sensitive steering does make it easier to maneuver this big sedan around the crowded city area.
Comfort
Audi's air suspension system has four settings that allow the 2010 Audi A8 to cruise over any surfaces with ease. Ride comfort is assured on highways and at low speeds. Road and wind noise is minimal, while the engine only growls softly during hard acceleration. Plenty of adjustments allow drivers to get comfortable. A good driving position coupled with supple seats allow for long-distance cruising. Dashboard is logically arranged, with most settings accessible through a single MMI knob.
Quality + Reliability
In addition to having a modern design with excellent ergonomics, the quality of materials used is the best out there. Bring in the fit-and-finish and the 2010 Audi A8 has a winner in its cabin. Much attention has been paid to the finest details. Petrol engines are brought over from the previous-generation Audi A8, and should prove sturdy. If the Audi A4 and Audi A6 are anything to go by, the 2010 Audi A8's electronics should be reliable.
Performance
Two engine options are available: 3.2-litre V6 and 4.2-litre V8. Both are strong and smooth in real-world driving. While the V6 has abundant mid-range pull, the V8 is simply electric. The former is sufficient for most. But money and fuel economy plus environment aside, the V8 has to be our pick. Both engines are paired to the CVT Multitronic gearbox which carries out transitions smoothly. The Quattro four-wheel-drive system, which comes with the V8, is useful during slippery conditions.
Roominess
The interior space provided by the 2010 Audi A8 is limousine-like. Front and rear passengers get vast amounts of head- and leg-room. Malaysia's Audi A8 variants are long wheelbase, and thus offer even more legroom. To complete the package, storage space in the boot is similarly impressively large.
Running Costs
With Audi's FSI Direct Injection technology, the 3.2-litre V6 returns reasonable fuel economy. The word 'economy' really should not be used alongside the 4.2-litre V8, which drinks and gulps petrol. Servicing and repair costs are likely to be costly. Insurance for either variant is expensive. Even the road tax is pricey at RM 3,025.50 and RM 7,404. Depreciation should be higher than comparable BMW and Mercedes-Benz models'.
Value for Money
With prices at RM 750,000 and RM 900,000, it is hard to justify value. But to be fair, the 2010 Audi A8 comes with a lot of high-tech goodies. The BMW 7-Series 3.0-litre and 4.0-litre variants cost RM 618,800 and RM 748,000 respectively. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class 3.0-litre variant is priced at RM 639,888. Simply put, the 2010 Audi A8 does not have pricing advantage on its side.
Equipment
The equipment list and safety kit are comprehensive. MMI control system, Audi side assist, Audi lane assist, Audi parking system advanced, DAB tuners, adaptive cruise control, adaptive air suspension, leather seats, rain sensor, bi-xenon headlights, and fog lights are available. Safety kit includes ABS, ESP and six airbags. The Quattro variant adds a four-wheel-drive system.
Environment
FSI Direct Injection technology keeps the emission level of the 3.2-litre V6 reasonable for an engine of its size. But the 4.2-litre V8's emission level is abysmal. If any potential buyer even care about environmental greenness, the V6 has to be the pick. To make matters worse, Audi has one of the cleanest engine range in the luxury sector. Imagine the rest.
Live Life Drive Verdict
World-class cabin
Effortless road manners
Unparalleled quality
Too subtle styling
Steering is too light at times
Pricey relative to competitors
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