So, too, does the operation of the five-speed fully automatic transmission with nearly full manual override capabilities. Shifts, both up and down, were exceptionally smooth and perfectly timed. Comfort is very good, of course. And the S8 does not disappoint. The trunk is also substantial and beautifully finished, as is the rest of the vehicle.
Materials appear to be exceptional.
Our review car had the standard gray-washed maple and the option suede headliner. It impressed all who rode in it. Yet it is not nearly as expensive as some logical competitors. It is also not every luxury car buyer s cup of tea, and Audi is importing a relative handful of these all-aluminum bodied S8s for just a few discerning drivers. For those who seek to combine large car luxury with sports car performance, it gets a solid thumbs up from me.