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Audi A8: D4 and D5 generations, engines and trims
The Audi A8 is the largest and most luxurious Audi sedan, alongside the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, completing the trio of German luxury saloons. We look at what sets the most common D4 and D5 generations apart in the used market, which engines are the most popular, how the trims differ, and what you need to check before buying.
In brief: the A8
The A8 has been in production since 1994, and its standout feature from the very first generation is its aluminium body construction (Audi Space Frame), which makes this large car lighter. All generations are four-door saloons with a standard or long (A8 L) wheelbase, and most come with quattro four-wheel drive.
On the used market, the A8 is prized for its quiet cabin, comfortable air suspension, and powerful, smooth-running engines. On the flip side, it suffers from rapid depreciation and expensive repairs for complex electronics, so when choosing, the car's history and technical condition are paramount.
D4 vs D5: what's the difference
The D3 generation (2002–2010) doesn't cost much today, but most cars have very high mileage, and repairs to the electronics and suspension can take a significant chunk out of the car's value.
The D4 generation (2010–2017) is the most popular on the used market. It features an 8-speed automatic gearbox and an MMI system with a touchpad, and after the 2013 mid-life update, it came with Matrix LED headlights and more economical engines.
D5 generation (from late 2017) — much more digital: instead of most buttons — two touch-sensitive screens, most engines have a 48V mild hybrid system, rear-wheel drive optionally available. The refreshed A8 at the end of 2021 gained new grilles, digital Matrix LED headlights and OLED tail lights.
Engines and transmissions
In the D4 generation, you'll often find the 3.0 TDI V6 diesel (around 204–262 hp), as well as the powerful 4.2 TDI V8 (around 350–385 hp). Petrol engines include the 3.0 TFSI with a supercharger (around 290–310 hp), 4.2 FSI V8, and after the refresh — 4.0 TFSI V8; the sporty S8 with 4.0 TFSI has over 500 hp. Less common are the W12 and hybrid versions.
In the D5 generation, the main engine is the 50 TDI (3.0 V6 diesel, around 286 hp). Petrol engines include the 55 TFSI (3.0 V6, around 340 hp) and 60 TFSI (4.0 V8, around 460 hp), with the plug-in hybrid 60 TFSI e also available, and the S8 has a V8 engine with around 571 hp.
D4 and D5 generation cars come with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. It operates smoothly and is considered reliable, but it benefits from periodic oil changes, even if this is not always specified in the official service schedule.
What to check when buying a used A8
The air suspension is standard, so check if the car stands evenly on all wheels after a night, if the compressor doesn't run too long, and if there are no issues when changing height. Worn-out air springs and the compressor are the most common costs associated with this suspension.
The large-displacement V6 and V8 TDI engines feature timing chains located at the rear of the engine, making repairs complex and expensive. Also, check the diesel particulate filter (DPF), EGR system, and on D5-generation diesels, the AdBlue system.
The body is mostly aluminium, so after an accident, not every service centre can repair it properly — carefully inspect the gaps between panels and the paint thickness. Check that all electronic features (MMI, cameras, massage and ventilation functions) work, and compare the mileage with service records.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions and packages most commonly found in Europe.
A8
D4, D5The standard base sedan — the most commonly encountered version.
- Pneumatic suspension, usually with quattro four-wheel drive
- Single-tone interior and electrically adjustable seats
- Often — seat ventilation and massage functions
A8 L
D4, D5Approximately 13 cm longer version, designed for rear passengers.
- More legroom in the rear
- Often — electrically adjustable rear seats
- Often — separate rear climate control zone and entertainment screens
S line
D4, D5Sporty appearance package without a sporty engine.
- Sporty bumpers and larger alloy wheels
- Often — sporty seats and a black headliner
- S line badges and trim
60 TFSI e
D5Plug-in hybrid — 3.0 V6 petrol and electric engines.
- Short distances can be covered on electric power alone
- Smaller boot due to the battery
- Suitable if the car can be regularly charged
S8
D4, D5Sporty version with a powerful V8 engine.
- 4.0 TFSI V8 engine, over 500 hp
- Sportier suspension setup and larger brakes
- Often — ceramic brakes and 21-inch wheels
Comparison of D5 generation versions
| A8 | A8 S line | A8 L | S8 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For those who like to drive themselves | Sporty looks | Passenger-friendly rear | For power enthusiasts |
| Common wheel sizes | 18–19 inch | 20 inch | 19–20 inch | 21 inch |
| Interior | Spacious, comfortable | Sport seats | More room in the back | Sport seats, S8 trim |
| Engine | 3.0 TDI or TFSI | 3.0 TDI or TFSI | 3.0 V6 or 4.0 V8 | 4.0 V8, around 571 hp |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Budget-friendly | Mid-range | Mid-range | High-end |
For most buyers, the ideal A8 or A8 S line is the 50 TDI engine — it's the most economical and commonly found combination. The A8 L is worth considering if you often carry passengers in the rear, while the S8 is only for those prepared for higher running costs.
Pros
- Very quiet and comfortable interior
- Standard air suspension, usually quattro
- Powerful, smoothly operating engines
- A used model costs significantly less than a new one
Cons
- Expensive air suspension and electronics repairs
- Rapidly depreciating value
- Aluminium body repairs are more complex
Frequently asked questions
Which A8 generation is best to buy used?
For many buyers, the best compromise is the refreshed D4 generation (2014–2017): Matrix LED headlights, refined engines, and a more accessible price. The D5 generation is more modern, but its electronics are more complex, and its price in the used market is higher.
Is it worth buying an A8 with a 3.0 TDI engine?
Yes — this is the most popular and economical A8 engine, with which the large sedan uses relatively little fuel in the city. Opt for a car with a clear service history and ask about the timing chains and solid particle filter.
What's the difference between the A8 and A8 L?
The A8 L is about 13 cm longer, with all the extra length going to the rear passengers' legroom. The technology is the same, but the A8 L often comes with more rear cabin comfort features — electrically adjustable seats or a separate climate zone.
Is maintaining an A8 very expensive?
Regular servicing is pricier than for a mid-range car, and if the air suspension, electronics, or engine fail, repairs can be significantly more expensive. Therefore, before buying, it's worth getting a thorough diagnostic and inspection at a service centre.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
