After the presentation of the A8 Hybrid Concept in 2010, Audi is introducing its frugal four-cylinder limousine, which goes on sale in 2012. Audi had made very few changes to the model such as the smaller (18" instead of 21") but same alloy wheels and conventional looking engine cover.
The car features the same parallel hybrid powertrain that combines a modified 2.0-liter turbocharged TFSI gasoline engine delivering 211HP and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque, with a disc-shaped electric motor that develops 40 kW (54HP) and 210 Nm (154.89 lb-ft). Its short-term system output is rated at 245-horsepower and 480 Nm (345.03 lb-ft) of torque. The A8 Hybrid goes from standstill to 100 km/h (62mph) in 7.7 seconds and has a top speed of 235 km/h (146 mph).
Its fuel consumption is under 6.4 liters per 100 km, and CO2 emissions below 148 grams per km. In addition, it can travel on electric power alone at speeds of up to 100km/h (62mph) for a distance of up to three kilometers or 1.86 miles at a constant 60km/h (37 mph).
There are three different modes to drive in which "EV" stands for electric drive, "D" where the system controls both the engine and the electric motor, and the "S" mode for a sportier driving style.