cars news 10: Next-Gen Audi A8 to Get More Luxurious Maybach Rival, Coupe Model?

A more luxurious variant of the next-generation Audi A8 with a longer wheelbase and a coupe variant could possibly materialize, according to a new report from Auto Express. Audi technical boss Stefan Knirsch told the British outlet that a longer derivative of the A8 is being discussed and that “the success of the extra-long version of the S-Class has got us wondering about whether there could be a business case for that in the future.”

Currently, the Audi A8 is only available in standard and long-wheelbase models while its key rival, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, is available in even longer variants that include the Maybach S600 and the Pullman. Additionally, Mercedes-Benz has also renamed the CL-Class to the S-Class Coupe and will also offer a convertible variant. The Audi A8, on the other hand, is only available as a sedan but can be had in the higher-performance S8 and S8 Plus.

Earlier this year, Audi revealed the A8 L Extended, a six-door one-off limousine that offers seating for six passengers. Knirsch also confirmed that the next-generation A8 will come with the standardized SAE Level 3 of autonomous driving that will allow the driver to take his/her hands off the steering wheel for longer periods and at higher speeds than what’s currently possible. “We are working on the new A8 to introduce this new level of piloted systems,” said Knirsch. Level 3 automation monitors its surroundings but still requires the driver to be ready to intervene.

Source: Auto Express