Audi’s flagship limousine will this year get a new look inspired by its little brothers.
The 2022 Audi A8 has been spied for the first time, revealing a new look in keeping with the new A1, A3, and A6.
Unlike the current car, which has a clean set of headlights with LED daytime running lights to give them shape, the updated A8 will have a more aggressive look thanks to its L-shaped lights.
Previously, range-topping limousines like the A8 set the styling direction for their less expensive brethren. That’s not the case anymore, with the A8 taking inspiration from the smallest Audi sedan on sale, the new A3.
Expect the updated headlights to work in tandem with a revised grille more in keeping with that of Audi’s new sedans and SUVs, and new detailing around the bottom of the front bumper.
The changes are more subtle down back, where the A8 maintains its linked taillights and their LED detailing. Detail changes to the bumpers and trim pieces are likely, but don’t expect Audi to reinvent the wheel.
Interior updates are also likely to be subtle. The A8 already features the dual-screen climate and infotainment setup being rolled out across the Audi range currently, along with the latest iteration of the brand’s excellent Virtual Cockpit digital instrument binnacle.
A range of massaged powertrains with mild-hybrid power is likely to feature when the updated A8 launches later this year. Audi already offers the car with plug-in hybrid power, blending a petrol V6 engine with an electric motor for 46km of battery-powered motoring.
It’s not, however, offered in Australia where Audi sells the car with a 50TDI diesel engine only.
Audi has sold 13 examples of the A8 to the end of November in 2020, down from the 40 it had sold at the same point in 2019.
It’s also down on the 97 examples of the BMW 7 Series and 49 examples of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class sold to the end of November in 2020.
MORE: Audi A8 news and reviews
MORE: Audi news and reviews
