In common with all Audi A8 models, the sporty top model comes complete with a package of restraint systems that are perfectly matched to its highly rigid aluminium body. The package includes two front airbags that are activated in two stages, four side airbags integrated into the seat backs and sideguard head airbags. All five three-point belts in the Audi S8 are fitted with belt tensioners. Active head restraints for the front seats reduce the risk of whiplash injuries in the event of a rear-end collision.

The innovative lighting technology known as adaptive light, including LED daytime running lights, is standard equipment on every Audi S8. In this case, the xenon plus headlights are equipped with static turning lights and dynamic cornering lights and coupled with separate LED daytime running lights.

Located in a cloverleaf-shaped reflector and each consisting of five white light-emitting diodes, the daytime running lights on the Audi S8 consume a minimum, barely perceptible amount of energy.

Each diode has an output of just one watt - conventional dipped headlights have an output of up to 300 watts. This white colour of this light, which is similar to daylight, not only illuminates the road ahead, it also makes the driver's own car immediately visible to all other road users. At the same time, it emphasises the striking design of the Audi front end.



Equipment
Luxury with new accents

Alongside its sporty, dynamic performance, the new Audi S8 has an additional strength to offer - an excellent price/performance ratio. Starting at a basic price of €97,600 in Germany, it comes with a wealth of standard features which set new standards, even in the sophisticated luxury segment.

As well as adaptive light technology, 20-inch wheels and an 18-inch brake system, the standard specification incorporates other comfort and convenience equipment items. These include sound-insulating double glazing for the windows, automatically dipping and electrically folding exterior mirrors, seat heating with six settings for all seats, a navigation system with high-performance DVD drive and a Bose surround audio system with CD changer. The door armrests and the centre console in Audi S8 are upholstered in leather, together with the seats.

The standard access and authorisation system known as advanced key permits the driver to open Audi S8 without having to take hold of the key. A transmitter in the key releases the central locking when the vehicle is approached. If the key is inside the car, the driver can start the ten-cylinder engine simply by pressing the start button.

One particular highlight available to customers for Audi S8 is the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System.

The fully digital system from the Danish high-end manufacturer redefines the standard yet again for demanding music lovers. This system incorporates 14 speakers, each energised by its own output stage. The output stages are grouped together in two amplifiers, which supply an output of more than 1,000 watts if required. The general rule is: the higher the output, the better the freedom from distortion in poor acoustic conditions - inside the car, there is already a basic background noise level of around 60 dB.

The dynamics of the frequency response is calculated such that the music has the perfect tone. When programming the digital sound processor and selecting and positioning the speakers, consideration was given not only to driving noise, but also to spatial conditions and the properties of materials in Audi S8 interior.

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