KEY POINTS:
The baby of the Audi A8 range will be one of the cleanest luxury saloons on the market - although it does lack in the power department.
The smallest engine option is a 2.8 FSI petrol engine which emits a class-leading 199g/km CO2. That's less than the efficient diesels available in this class and even Lexus's range of LS hybrids - although these Japanese rivals are much more powerful.
The lower-polluting A8 still has 155kW, gets to 100km/h in eight seconds and presses on to a 235km/h top speed. It also manages a manufacturer claimed 8l/100km combined fuel consumption.
Alongside the extra efficient engine, Audi will offer new 3.2 litre V6 petrol and claims to have enhanced the 2008 A8's styling, equipment levels, ride and handling characteristics.
It will also be the "quietist luxury car in class" according to Audi, apparently offering whisper-quiet road and ambient noise levels thanks to extra sound deadening around the cabin.
- REUTERS
