Audi A8 D4 Long (2010–2017): the luxury limo I’d happily daily
If you’ve ever spent a long weekend in an Audi A8—specifically the long-wheelbase D4 generation—you’ll know it isn’t just transport. It’s a rolling lounge with a quiet confidence. The sort of Audi that makes airport runs feel like spa appointments and turns rough city tarmac into background fluff. I noticed right away how the A8 D4 Long isolates you from the mess of daily life—kids arguing in the back? You’ll hear them. But only just.
For context, this is the aluminum-bodied A8 (D4) sold from 2010 to 2017. In Long form it’s the one to be chauffeured in—or, if you’re like me, to drive yourself and feel slightly smug about it. We’ll hit the real-world stuff: dimensions, best years, engines to pick, the common quirks I’ve seen (and heard about from owners), plus the simple upgrades that keep one feeling factory-fresh—like a good set of floor mats from AutoWin that don’t slide around like a cheap suit.
Audi A8 D4 Long dimensions and design: the hotel suite with a postcode
Let’s answer the pub question: how long is the A8 D4 Long? Around 5,267 mm (207.3 in) nose to tail, with a 3,122 mm (122.9 in) wheelbase. Width is roughly 1,949 mm (76.7 in) without mirrors. Translation: it’s big. But you don’t fight it; you flow with it. The Long’s rear legroom is limo-grade, and the proportions are classic Audi—understated lines, a stance that looks composed rather than shouty.
Chronology check: Audi A8 D4 Long model years (2010–2017)
The D4 arrived for 2010 and bowed out after 2017. A mid-cycle update landed for 2014 with sharper styling, upgraded LEDs (Matrix LED in some markets), quieter cabins, and tweaks to the MMI interface. If you’re shopping used, the facelift cars feel that bit more modern inside.
Audi A8 D4 Long engines and performance: quiet thunder
I’ve driven a mix of engines over the years—diesels in Europe, petrols in the States—and the story is simple: all are silken, some are alarmingly quick.
- 3.0 TFSI V6 (290–333 hp): the sweet spot for effortless daily use. 0–60 mph in the mid-5s, hushed at a cruise, surprisingly frugal if you’re gentle.
- 4.2 FSI V8 (372 hp): creamy and mature, a proper old-school luxury vibe.
- 4.0 TFSI V8 (420–435 hp): the “didn’t expect that” option—4.5-ish seconds to 60 mph and absolutely silent about it.
- W12 6.3 (≈500 hp): silk sheet power. Feels special every time you lean in.
- 3.0 TDI / 4.2 TDI (≈240–350 hp): torque-rich continent crushers, mega range, easy long-haul pace.
Every US-spec A8 D4 I’ve sampled had quattro all-wheel drive and the ZF 8-speed auto—both near flawless. The gearbox is the sort that disappears into the background, only reminding you it exists with clean, early upshifts or quick flicks down the box when you need a gap.
Ride, steering, and the “ahh” factor
Air suspension is standard and worth its weight in stress reduction. Comfort mode turns broken pavements into smudges; Dynamic tightens body control without spoiling the mood. The steering isn’t chatty—this is a luxury sedan, not a 911—but it’s accurate and calm. On a rainy Alpine run, I remember thinking, this is like driving in slippers (the expensive hotel kind).
Quirks, gremlins, and owner notes
- Air suspension: generally robust, but I’ve seen compressor fatigue and leaky struts on higher-mile cars. Listen for the pump cycling too often, and watch for uneven ride height after parking.
- MMI and modules: the D4 introduced handy tech (handwriting touchpad, Google Earth overlay early on). A few owners mentioned occasional infotainment hiccups—usually fixed with software updates or a battery health check.
- 4.0T specifics: carbon buildup (typical DI behavior) and PCV issues can crop up; a pre-purchase inspection goes a long way.
Which year of Audi A8 D4 Long should you buy?
The early cars (2011–2012) are great value and still feel genuinely plush. That said, 2014–2017 models are the sweet spot: fresher tech, improved refinement, and updated lights. If you want the most modern-feeling cabin, look late-run 2015–2017. Personally, a 2015/2016 3.0T or 4.0T in Long form is the quiet achiever.
Is the Audi A8 D4 Long a “big car” in real life?
Yes—and it drives smaller than it looks. In town, cameras and parking sensors keep blood pressure down. On the motorway, it’s church-quiet. I’ve ferried colleagues and camera gear to events—no problem swallowing two big Pelican cases and a tripod. It’s the luxury sedan equivalent of turning down the noise in life. Literally.
Living with the Audi A8 D4 Long: the luxury-limo stuff
- Rear-seat heaven: massage, ventilation, and enough stretch-out room to actually nap (not that I’d admit to it).
- Bang & Olufsen sound: one of the best factory systems of its era. Play anything from Miles Davis to Massive Attack and grin.
- Quiet cabin: double glazing, thick carpets—quiet enough to hear your kids fighting in the back. And to arbitrate, calmly.
Audi A8 D4 Long interior upgrade: the case for proper floor mats
Floor mats aren’t glamorous, but they matter. When I tried all-weather mats one muddy winter, the A8 still felt like a showroom car in April. For the Audi A8 D4, I like mats that fit perfectly, don’t curl, and don’t squeak under your heel. Bonus points if they elevate the cabin vibe rather than just protect it.
What I look for in A8 D4 floor mats
- Material that suits the mission: plush carpet for a premium vibe or high-quality rubber for year-round abuse. Either way, it should feel worthy of the A8’s cabin.
- Tailored fit: precisely cut for the Long wheelbase. Ill-fitted mats migrate and look cheap. Hard pass.
- All-weather resilience: if you do ski weekends or muddy trailheads, a deep well pattern saves your original carpets—and your resale.
AutoWin Eshop: where I’d send A8 D4 Long owners for mats
When I’ve needed mats for long-term test cars, I’ve had good luck with AutoWin. They build for specific models—like the A8 D4 Long—so the fit’s right and the finish doesn’t cheapen the car. Ordering is easy, and delivery hasn’t kept me waiting around the office.
- Big selection for A8 D4: from understated to bold trims on Audi A8 D4 mats.
- Quality assurance: materials feel premium and wear well. I’ve seen lesser mats glaze over and squeak—these don’t.
- Easy ordering: the AutoWin site is straightforward, which—honestly—matters when you’re buying something you’d rather fit and forget.
Audi A8 D4 Long vs rivals: the quiet operator
How does the long A8 stack up against the usual suspects? Here’s the quick version.
| Model | Length | Wheelbase | Power range | 0–60 mph |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi A8 D4 Long (2010–2017) | 5267 mm (207.3 in) | 3122 mm (122.9 in) | ≈240–500 hp | ≈4.5–6.5 s |
| Mercedes-Benz S-Class L (W222) | ≈5246–5280 mm | 3165 mm | ≈329–621 hp | ≈4.1–6.0 s |
| BMW 7 Series L (F02) | 5212 mm (205.2 in) | 3210 mm (126.4 in) | ≈315–535 hp | ≈4.6–6.2 s |
| Lexus LS 460L | 5210 mm (205.1 in) | 3090 mm (121.7 in) | ≈386 hp | ≈5.8–6.0 s |
Where the A8 D4 Long wins is its calm precision. The S-Class is softer and a touch showier, the 7 Series more driver-keen, the Lexus bulletproof. But the A8’s blend of light-on-its-feet dynamics and whispery refinement still feels right today.
Conclusion: why the Audi A8 D4 Long still hits the spot
After years of testing big luxury sedans, the Audi A8 D4 Long remains a go-to recommendation. It’s elegant without shouting, quick without drama, and comfortable enough to melt a bad day. Pick a well-kept 2014–2017 car, keep on top of maintenance, and mind the suspension, and you’ll have one of the most satisfying luxury limos of the last decade. And if you want it to look and feel box-fresh? Start underfoot with well-fitted mats from AutoWin—the small details that match the A8’s big-car polish.
FAQ: Audi A8 D4 Long (2010–2017)
How long is the Audi A8 D4 Long?
Approximately 5,267 mm (207.3 in) long with a 3,122 mm (122.9 in) wheelbase—plenty of rear legroom and then some.
What’s the best year for the Audi A8 D4 Long?
Many enthusiasts (me included) lean toward 2014–2017 for the facelift updates, improved refinement, and modernized tech.
Which engine should I choose?
The 3.0 TFSI is the effortless all-rounder; the 4.0 TFSI is the stealth-quick option. W12 is special if you want ultimate smoothness. Diesels are superb for long-range efficiency where offered.
Is the Audi A8 D4 Long reliable?
Generally solid with proper maintenance. Watch for air-suspension wear on high-mileage cars, keep the battery healthy for the MMI, and have a specialist inspect 4.0T items like PCV and carbon buildup.
Does the A8 D4 Long have Apple CarPlay?
Early cars did not. Some late-2016/2017 examples in certain markets gained compatibility, and quality retrofit kits are available if yours doesn’t have it.
