Secret performance cars of 2006 - Audi S8

On sale Summer 2006
Price £66,500

Joining the RS4 in 2006 will be a V10-powered version of the A8 executive saloon, developed with Audi’s sister company Lamborghini. The S8 will have a 444bhp 5.2-litre motor, based on the Lamborghini Gallardo supercar’s engine, modified to deliver smoother power delivery and better fuel economy.

Audi is quoting a 0-62mph time of 5.1sec and a top speed limited to 155mph. Quattro four-wheel-drive will be fitted as standard, along with a Tiptronic gearbox and air suspension.

The suspension will also be computer-controlled, reducing body roll through corners and lowering the car at high speeds. Upgraded brakes and 20-inch wheels complete the package.

The S8 will go on sale towards the middle of next year, with prices expected to start around £66,500.

A prototype of a V10-engined A6 has also been seen at test tracks, suggesting that an RS6 is also in development. It’s unsure if the V10 used will have the same power output as the unit in the S8, but Audi engineers are working out how to incorporate such a large engine in the car. The RS6 is also rumoured to use a new kind of electronic suspension to produce better handling.


See the February 2006 issue of What Car? magazine for a free 100 Secret Cars of 2006 and Beyond supplement.