Audi Considering Ditching All-Aluminum Platform for Next-Gen A8

Audi has little interest in discussing the next-generation A8 at the moment. After all, the current model is set to receive a face lift early next year, which hopefully will add some style to a body that, according to a prominent designer at the VW Group, looks “like it still has the camo on.” We expect the V-8 TDI to receive a boost to more than 400 hp in order to distance itself from the six-cylinder turbo-diesel offerings from Mercedes-Benz and BMW; The A8's optional W-12 will receive turbocharging to improve its torque numbers—at present, it’s down 87 lb-ft on the 760Li and 149 on the S600.

But things could really change with the next full redesign, expected to hit the market for 2016 or 2017. Audi sources tell us that the all-aluminum body likely will be replaced by an “aluminum hybrid,” which would include high-strength steel and composite materials. Moreover, the A8 could be shifted onto the modular standard architecture, which currently is being developed by Porsche as the basis for the next-generation Panamera and upcoming Bentley sedans.
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skytop - 8/29/2012 7:50:47 PM

+1 Boost

CAFE requirements will force car and truck makers to transform their products into gossamer vehicles if they have any hope of obtaining the MPG thresholds.

To shed weight, they can reduce size and/or reduce mass. Alloy metals are their only hope. Maybe Audi doesn't want to talk about it now, but with the CAFE standards pressing hard, they will snap out of their funk.

chewy - 8/29/2012 11:39:35 PM

+1 Boost

Twin turbo W12 will be a beast.

Doukas - 8/30/2012 2:53:06 AM

+2 Boost

Mercedes allready makes turbo v12's (biturbo)

chewy - 8/30/2012 2:08:03 PM

+1 Boost

They certainly do but considering the naturally aspirated A8L W12 gets to 60 in 4.1 and traps 114 in the 1/4 mile with "only" 500 horsepower and 463 pound feet of torque.

The S600 with 510 horsepower and 612 lb-ft of torque is good for 0-60 in 4.2 and a 115 quarter mile. The turbo V12 have never been able to put the power down properly, the S65 with 604 horsepower and 738 pound feet of torque makes a small improvement wtih 4.2 and 118.

Now put some turbos on the W12 and you have supercar shaming potential!

AlleVier - 8/30/2012 4:41:30 PM

0 Boost

Just as well, if you ask me. Better it costs so much and gets totaled than to be so cheap that you're forced to ride around on a repaired frame.