2020 Audi S8 Adds Power and Handling, Retains Reserved Teutonic Looks

The Audi S8 has always been the Q-ship of choice for those who wanted a luxurious sports sedan that flew under the radar of untrained eyes. For the 2020 model year, Audi increases the output to 563 horsepower, but retains the understated nature of the cosmetic upgrades.

Though the pictures shown are of the European short-wheelbase S8, only the long-wheelbase version will be arriving on U.S. shores. Sent to the Quattro all-wheel drive system through a standard eight-speed automatic transmission, the twin-turbo V8 engine is supplemented by a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The combined power of 563 hp and 590 ft-lbs is an increase of 103 hp and 103 ft-lbs over the standard A8’s twin-turbo V8.

While the A8 offers active anti-roll bars, they are tuned to further reduce body roll in the S8 application. Additionally, rear-wheel steering and a torque-vectoring rear differential are standard, while carbon-ceramic brakes are optional.

Exterior enhancements are limited to refined bumpers, side skirts, and dual exhaust outlets at the rear. Interior enhancements add diamond-stitched leather to the sport seats, as well as carbon fiber and matte aluminum to the trim work.

Audi has not confirmed whether the nitrous system from the S8 in the movie Ronin will be available in the 2020 model, but base pricing is expected to start well over $100,000 when the car goes on sale later this year so you’d think they could afford to include it.

While it may lack some power vs the competition from BMW and AMG, the more reserved Audi serves as the choice of a self-content owner who drives a sport sedan for their own pleasure, rather than for the attention from others. But, if past history is to predict the future, an S8 Plus may follow to play in the over 600 hp sandbox.

[Images: Audi]