Audi_A8_facelift_Malaysia_002

Euromobil has finally announced the availability of the facelifted Audi A8, after putting up specifications and pricing of the sole long-wheelbase 3.0 TFSI quattro model on its website last week. The new car retails at the same previously reported price of RM689,500 on the road without insurance, RM30,700 more than the outgoing model.

To recap, the Audi A8 L 3.0 TFSI gains some extra standard equipment, in addition to the aesthetic enhancements brought on by the facelift, to offset the sizeable premium. These include the new Matrix LED headlights with sequential indicators, as well as the rear-seat entertainment system that was previously a cost option.

Speaking of options, the options list has been expanded for the new model, and includes variable-assistance dynamic steering, a 19-speaker 1,400 W Bang & Olufsen sound system and a suite of driver assistance systems – an improved night vision assistant, park assist with 360-degree view and a head-up display. The new active lane assist is conspicuously missing.

Audi_A8_facelift_Malaysia_006

The 3.0 litre turbocharged and direct-injected V6 produces 20 hp more than before at 310 hp from 5,200 to 6,500 rpm. Torque has also increased by 20 Nm to 440 Nm produced between 2,900 and 4,750 rpm. As before, it is mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox which sends power to all four wheels.

The 0-100 km/h sprint is done in 5.9 seconds (0.3 seconds quicker than before), while top speed is limited to 250 km/h. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 7.9 litres per 100 km.

As with all Audis sold in Malaysia, the Audi A8 L 3.0 TFSI comes with a four-year warranty. Six colours are available – Argus brown, Foil silver, Ibis White, Havana Black, Oolong Grey and Moonlight Blue.

With such performance, the new car still isn’t exactly overpriced even with the higher price, considering the equivalent BMW 740Li, previous-generation Mercedes-Benz S 350 L and Jaguar XJ L 3.0 SC all cost north of RM800k.

As we reported last week, however, the game has moved on with the W222 S-Class, with the S 400 L Hybrid benefitting from duty exemptions through the 2014 National Automotive Policy (NAP). The A8 can’t even compete with the CBU car’s price of just over RM600k, let alone the locally-assembled car’s RM587,888 price tag. Need we mention that the S-Class is more fuel efficient and better-equipped?

You can head to our new car research site, CarBase.my for the full specifications and equipment of the new A8. You can also compare it to its nearest rivals – although Audi might not want you put it side-by-side with the new S-Class…