Audi unveils new S8 plus performance flagship

An uprated version of the Audi S8 has been unveiled, offering an additional 85hp over the ‘regular’ variant and a potential top speed in excess of 300kph if optioned with its electronic speed limiter disabled.

Called the S8 plus, with ‘plus’ written in lower case in the model’s official nomenclature, it is powered by an improved version of the S8’s 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 to deliver outputs of 605hp and 700Nm, with as much as 750Nm available on overboost.

Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Board Member for Technical Development at AUDI AG, says, “The new Audi S8 plus has a substantial gain in power and defines the pinnacle of sporty performance in the segment. That is why ‘plus’ appears in its name.”

Modifications made to the 4.0 TFSI powertrain range from its special engine control with speed and charge pressure boosting to its modified exhaust valves and the inner geometry of the turbocharger that was optimized for efficiency.

The engine is mated as standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive with a sport differential, a set up enabling the S8 plus to demolish the century sprint in 3.8 seconds.

Top speed is electronically limited to 250kph, a restriction that can be lifted by ticking the dynamic package option that includes carbon-fiber reinforced ceramic brakes and a sport exhaust system. Without electronic governance, the S8 plus maxes out at a heady 305kph.

Available only in standard wheelbase configuration, the S8 plus will be available in European markets beginning November this year with prices starting at €145,200 without options.

Pictures: Official Audi release.