Unveiled in `2017`, the A8 D5 pushes the idea of the technological luxury saloon even further with a `48 V` network, touchscreens everywhere, advanced driver aids and, depending on specification, electromechanical active suspension. Against a BMW 7 Series, it offers less ostentation than silent sophistication. Used, that sophistication can be remarkable to live with, but it leaves very little room for vague history.
The core of the market is mainly split between the `50 TDI 3.0 V6 286`, the `55 TFSI 3.0 V6 340` and, higher up, some `60 TFSI` and `60 TDI` versions, all paired with the `ZF 8HP`, `quattro` and a far denser electronic layer than before. The real question is not the brochure specification but how the `48 V` system, the 12 V battery, updates, suspension and actual engine use were followed. A sound D5 is read first in the paperwork, not in the first impression from its cabin.
