2005 AUDI A8 NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2005 Audi A8?
Audi puts context in the A8 L (which signifies long wheelbase) with a new regular wheelbase version of the 2005 Audi A8, which is 5.1 inches shorter and 1,111-pounds lighter. That means that for a savings of three grand, rear passengers have 12-percent less space than with the A8 L. Except for the deletion of the L's manual rear side sunshades, the equipment levels are the same. There's also a new 2005 Audi A8 L 6.0 powered by a stout six-liter W12, which is essentially two V6 engines sewn together to create about 420 horsepower and 406 lb.-ft. of torque. That's 90 more horsepower than the base 4.2-liter V8 engine, and the W12's torque curve is relatively flat between 2,300 and 5,300 rpm. The A8 L 6.0 also features Audi's new horse-collar grille design to set it apart from A8s powered by the standard V8. All 2005 Audi A8 models receive a tire pressure monitoring system, a rain sensor that automatically activates the windshield wipers, some extra lighting around the cabin, and a locking glove box as standard equipment. Some optional niceties include a keyless entry system that lets you start the engine with the push of a button on the dash, a wood steering wheel with shift paddles and wood console shift knob, a power door close assist, and new 18-inch cast alloy wheels with all season tires. Mid-year, a Sport package becomes available with 19-inch wheels and tires, and paddle-style shift controls mounted to the steering wheel.

Advantages of the 2005 Audi A8:

• Lightweight and structurally stiff aluminum construction
• Speedy acceleration
• All-weather grip from quattro all-wheel-drive
• Gorgeous interior trimmings
• Free scheduled maintenance

Objections to the 2005 Audi A8:

• Attractive option packages cause price to balloon
• Some may find the MMI difficult to use
• Potentially expensive to repair after an accident because of aluminum skin and structure

Editor's Advice:
Often overlooked, the intriguing Audi A8 deserves serious consideration from buyers searching for understated luxury blended with impressive performance and cutting-edge technology. Will the 2005 Audi A8 inspire buyers who eschewed the original for flashier fare from BMW and Benz? Audi's rings might not muster the same admiration and respect, but the 2004 A8 can be considered an equal to anything in its class, if not an outright leader of the super-luxury sedan brigade.