New Long Wheelbase Luxury High-Tech A8s Available in UK

Audi's A8 L range is now available in the UK. There are five models to choose from, all with an extra 13cm of body length and wheelbase, including the top of the range model (exclusive to the L range) which features a twelve cylinder 6.3 litre W12 petrol direct injection engine. There are two other petrol engines (a supercharged 3.0 litre TFSI and a 4.2 litre FSI) and two diesels also (a 3.0 litre and 4.2 litre).

Like their standard wheelbase counterparts, these A8s are mainly built from aluminium, which means they weigh in at around 60% of an all-steel equivalent. This helps the W12 model reach 62mph in under 5 seconds and achieve a top speed of 155 mph, whilst improving fuel economy by 9% - up to just under 23mpg on a combined cycle with 290g/km CO2 emissions.

You'll still experience a smooth and refined ride thanks to Audi's 'Quattro' four wheel drive and lightweight suspension that incorporates advanced adaptive air springs. The extra 13cm adds further to the luxury, as wider rear doors make for easier entry and exit to the double-glazed, extensively upholstered fine Nappa leather interior (and in the W12 model the doors are power-assisted). Seat heating is standard, and each seat is its own 'zone' in the temperature control system and has its own rear and side window blinds. The flagship W12 features individual rear seats with adjustable seat and headrest.

A BOSE audio system backed up by a hard-drive which will hold up to 8,000 tracks is standard, as is Audi's 'MMI Touch' fingertip navigation and telephone system, and a range of internet services including Bluetooth and a wireless network for up to six computers. The next-generation A8s will feature LTE broadband (which is faster than both 3G and DSL - in fact up to 7 times faster than 3G).

On the road prices for the L range start at £60,010.