2013 AUDI S8 | WAUD2AFD9DN019583

Body Styles

The Audi S8 (D4) was offered exclusively as a four-door full-size luxury sedan with a long-wheelbase executive profile, though unlike the A8 L, it used the standard-length chassis. Its body was sculpted from aluminum, contributing to significant weight savings despite its full-size proportions. The silhouette featured a fastback-style roofline with short rear overhangs, a long hood, and frameless door windows — combining formal sedan elegance with dynamic visual tension.

Subtle S-model enhancements included platinum gray or gloss black grille inserts, quad exhaust tips, silver mirror caps, 19- or 21-inch performance wheels, and discreet badging. The proportions struck a balance between conservative presence and latent athleticism, with the S8 plus receiving a more aggressive front splitter, blacked-out trim, and a slight rear lip spoiler. In contrast to its bold AMG and M rivals, the S8’s styling remained understated, balanced, and tailored for speed in a suit.

Model Name Meaning (Manufacturer)

“S8” designates the performance variant of Audi’s flagship A8 model, with the “S” referring to “Sport” within Audi’s naming structure. Positioned below the RS line, the S8 represents refined performance, offering high-output powertrains and chassis upgrades while retaining daily luxury. The “8” places it within the top tier of Audi’s lineup, directly above the S6 and S7.

Model Name Meaning (Languages)

While alphanumeric, “S8” has clear recognition globally. The combination signals discreet power, executive luxury, and Audi quattro performance. It’s spoken with authority and pairs elegantly with Audi’s identity as a premium brand known for precision and engineering excellence.

Body & Interior Colors and Rims

The Audi S8 (2012–2017) was offered in a range of understated yet powerful exterior finishes, carefully selected to reflect the model’s dual identity as both an executive limousine and a V8-powered performance machine. Standard color options included Glacier White Metallic, Brilliant Black, Moonlight Blue, Daytona Grey Pearl, and Floret Silver Metallic, with more distinctive shades like Monsoon Grey, Oolong Grey, and Mythos Black adding depth to the palette. Audi’s Exclusive program allowed for bespoke hues, including Sepang Blue Pearl, Ipanema Brown, and Nardo Grey, giving buyers access to both subtle sophistication and high-impact personalization.

Inside, the S8 was a showcase of Audi craftsmanship and high-performance detailing, with materials tailored to both comfort and sporting intent. Standard upholstery featured Valcona leather in combinations such as Black, Lunar Silver, Nougat Brown, and Flint Grey, each offered with contrast piping, diamond stitching, or carbon-embossed panels depending on the package. The S8 Plus variants introduced unique treatments like full-black leather with red stitching or Crimson Red seatbelts, emphasizing the car’s more aggressive character.

Trim inlays ranged from brushed aluminum and Carbon Atlas to Piano Black lacquer and layered wood veneers, with customizable interior accents including illuminated “S8” logos, quilted headrests, and custom sill plates. The multifunction sport steering wheel came wrapped in perforated leather, with aluminum shift paddles and a flattened lower rim in select packages. The Virtual Cockpit was not yet available, but the S8’s MMI interface and analog cluster were enhanced by chrome bezels and a head-up display in higher trims.

Wheel options played a key visual role in communicating the S8’s performance. Standard models rode on 20-inch 5-parallel-spoke wheels, while optional packages offered 21-inch double-spoke or trapezoid-style forged alloys, finished in Titanium Matte, Silver, or Gloss Black. The S8 Plus received unique 21-inch milled alloy wheels with a high-sheen finish and optional lightweight forged performance wheels, enhancing both visuals and handling precision.

Behind the wheels sat massive ventilated disc brakes, with 6-piston calipers painted in matte black or red and branded with the “S” logo. Optional carbon-ceramic brake systems provided fade-free performance and visual presence, while the adaptive air suspension and quattro all-wheel-drive system ensured that the car’s low, broad stance was matched by real-world composure and capability.

Top Expensive Options

• Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System (19 speakers): $6,300
• Dynamic Package (Carbon Ceramic Brakes, 305 km/h limiter): $11,000
• Full Leather Package with Alcantara Headliner: $5,200
• Night Vision Assistant with Pedestrian Detection: $2,300
• Driver Assistance Package (Adaptive Cruise, Lane Assist, Side Assist): $2,500
• Sport Differential with Dynamic Steering: $2,000
• Rear Seat Comfort Package with Massage and Ventilation: $3,800
• Matte Exterior Paint (Audi Exclusive): $5,000
• Carbon Fiber Exterior Package (S8 plus): $3,500
• Rear Seat Entertainment System with Dual Screens: $2,600

vs Competitors

The S8 competed with the BMW 750i/M760Li, Mercedes-AMG S63, and Jaguar XJR575. While the AMG was louder and more ostentatious, and the M760Li offered V12 smoothness, the S8 delivered a unique blend of stealth and speed. With its understated design, quattro grip, and lightweight structure, it often felt more agile than its rivals, though less flamboyant.

Its biggest strength was dual personality: one moment a refined executive saloon, the next a 600-hp Autobahn dominator. The S8 plus, in particular, was a supercar in formalwear, built for those who wanted performance and privacy in equal measure.

Fun Fact

The S8 plus was the most powerful S-badged Audi ever at the time of its launch, and was co-developed with Audi Sport, the same team responsible for RS and R models. It featured an unrestricted top speed of 305 km/h (189.5 mph) with the Dynamic Package — matching the top-tier RS models while maintaining full luxury comfort. Additionally, the car’s aluminum body shell kept weight under 2,000 kg, making it one of the lightest in its class despite its size.