Audi Audi A8 2018-present Drivetrain Specifications
Audi Audi A8 2018-present

Audi Audi A8 2018-present Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2018-Present Audi A8 drivetrain system. Learn about the quattro all-wheel drive, transmission, differentials, and torque distribution.

Updated

2018-Present Audi A8 Drivetrain Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides a detailed overview of the drivetrain specifications for the 2018-Present Audi A8. It includes technical details about the engine, transmission, drivetrain, and performance capabilities. Use this guide to understand the key features and specifications of the Audi A8's drivetrain system. Navigate through the sections to find specific information, and refer to the quick reference section for key highlights.

How to Use

To find specific information, use the search functionality by typing keywords such as 'engine specifications,' 'transmission types,' or 'drivetrain options.'

Navigate through the document by selecting sections from the table of contents. Each section provides detailed information about a specific aspect of the drivetrain system. Use the subsections to drill down into particular topics.

Key Specifications

Engine Options

3.0L V6 / 4.0L V8 (gasoline), 3.0L V6 (diesel)

Transmission

8-speed automatic with Tiptronic®

Drivetrain

Quattro all-wheel drive

Suspension

Adaptive air suspension

Hybrid Technology

48V mild-hybrid system

Available Specifications

Engine Options

The Audi A8 offers a range of powerful and efficient engine options, including gasoline and diesel variants. These engines are designed to deliver exceptional performance and fuel efficiency.

Gasoline Engines
  • 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine producing 335 horsepower
  • 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine producing 453 horsepower
  • 8-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic®
  • Combined fuel economy up to 23 mpg
  • Optional dynamic all-wheel steering
Diesel Engines
  • 3.0L turbocharged V6 diesel engine producing 282 horsepower
  • 8-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic®
  • Combined fuel economy up to 27 mpg
  • Reduced emissions with SCR technology
  • Smooth and quiet operation

Transmission

The Audi A8 features advanced transmission systems that optimize performance, efficiency, and driving comfort. These transmissions are designed to provide smooth shifting and responsive acceleration.

Automatic Transmission
  • 8-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic®
  • Manual shift mode for driver control
  • Adaptive shifting based on driving conditions
  • Optimized gear ratios for performance and efficiency
  • Smooth and seamless gear changes

Drivetrain

The Audi A8 utilizes advanced drivetrain technologies to deliver exceptional traction, stability, and driving dynamics. These systems enhance performance in various driving conditions.

Quattro All-Wheel Drive
  • Permanent all-wheel drive with self-locking center differential
  • Dynamic torque distribution between front and rear axles
  • Enhanced traction and stability on all surfaces
  • Improved cornering and handling
  • Optional rear-wheel steering for better maneuverability

Suspension and Chassis

The Audi A8 features a sophisticated suspension and chassis system that combines comfort and sportiness. These systems ensure a smooth ride and precise handling.

Adaptive Air Suspension
  • Adaptive air suspension with multiple modes
  • Automatic ride height adjustment
  • Enhanced comfort and stability at high speeds
  • Dynamic damping control for varying road conditions
  • Optional predictive suspension with camera preview

Hybrid Technology

The Audi A8 incorporates hybrid technology to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. These systems seamlessly integrate with the combustion engine for optimal performance.

Mild-Hybrid System
  • 48V mild-hybrid system with belt alternator starter
  • Improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions
  • Seamless engine start/stop functionality
  • Enhanced low-speed maneuverability
  • Optional energy recuperation during deceleration

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
all-wheel drive
Configuration
quattro with ultra technology
Platform
MLB (Modular Longitudinal Matrix)
Engine Type
V6 and V8 options
Transmission
8-speed Tiptronic automatic
Location
longitudinal front-engine

Dimensions

Wheelbase
123.6 in (3.14 m)
Overall Length
204.7 in (5.19 m)
Dry Weight
440 lbs (200 kg)
Axle Ratio
3.19
Turning Diameter
41.7 ft (12.7 m)
Ground Clearance
5.1 in (0.13 m)
Fuel Tank Capacity
19.3 gal (73 liters)

Materials

Driveshaft
high-strength steel
Axles
forged steel
Transmission Case
aluminum alloy
Differential Housing
cast iron
Propeller Shaft
carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP)

Features

Drivetrain Features
  • quattro all-wheel drive with ultra technology
  • dynamic torque distribution
  • self-locking center differential
  • wheel-selective torque control
  • traction control system
Transmission Features
  • 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission
  • manual mode with paddle shifters
  • coasting function for fuel efficiency
  • smooth gear transitions
  • adaptive shifting algorithm
Suspension Features
  • adaptive air suspension
  • electronically controlled dampers
  • dynamic ride height adjustment
  • active roll stabilization
  • comfort-oriented suspension tuning
Engine Features
  • direct fuel injection
  • turbocharging
  • variable valve timing
  • cylinder on demand technology
  • 48V mild-hybrid system
Exhaust Features
  • dual exhaust system
  • active exhaust valves
  • sound actuator technology
  • exhaust flap control
  • sport exhaust option

Safety Features

Traction Control
  • electronic differential lock
  • anti-slip regulation
  • traction control system
  • brake differential
Stability Control
  • electronic stability control
  • vehicle dynamics control
  • roll stability control
  • cornering brake control
Protective Systems
  • integral coach protective system
  • rollover protection
  • anti-whiplash head restraints
  • collision preparation system

Comfort Features

Suspension Comfort
  • adaptive air suspension
  • comfort damping
  • ride height adjustment
  • smooth ride quality
Noise insulation
  • acoustic glass
  • sound-dampening materials
  • active noise cancellation
  • quiet cabin environment
Drivetrain Comfort
  • smooth gear shifts
  • low noise operation
  • comfort-oriented torque delivery
  • refined powertrain operation
Accessibility Features
  • power closing doors
  • comfort entry
  • remote start
  • climate control pre-conditioning

Accessories

Drivetrain Accessories
  • limited-slip differential
  • performance exhaust system
  • high-performance brakes
  • sport suspension kit
Transmission Accessories
  • transmission oil cooler
  • performance transmission software
  • manual shift kit
  • aluminum shift paddles
Exhaust Accessories
  • sport exhaust system
  • exhaust tip trim
  • active exhaust control
  • performance mufflers

Maintenance

Service interval
5,000 - 7,500 miles (6 months)
Service Items
  • oil change
  • oil filter replacement
  • tire rotation
  • brake inspection
  • fluid level check
  • air filter inspection
Maintenance Notes
  • synthetic oil required
  • follow manufacturer's service schedule
  • inspect belts and hoses
  • check tire pressure
  • verify all fluids
  • refer to owner's manual for specific intervals

Warranty

Basic Warranty
Miles: 50,000
Years: 4
Coverage: bumper to bumper
Powertrain Warranty
Miles: 50,000
Years: 4
Coverage: engine, transmission, drivetrain components
Corrosion Warranty
Miles: unlimited
Years: 12
Coverage: perforation of body panels
Maintenance Warranty
Miles: 10,000
Years: 1
Coverage: scheduled maintenance

Production Details

Manufacturer
Audi AG
Manufacturing Process
  • robotic welding
  • laser cutting
  • machining
  • forging
  • 3D printing
Quality Control
inspection: computer vision and sensor-based quality control
Testing: NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) testing
Certification: ISO 9001 certified
Sustainability Practices
  • recycling of materials
  • energy-efficient manufacturing
  • use of eco-friendly materials
  • reducing CO2 emissions
Production Metrics
Units Per Year: high-volume production
Facility Location: Neckarsulm, Germany
Global Distribution: worldwide distribution network

Service Information for drivetrain Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

5,000
6
  • oil change
  • oil filter replacement
  • tire rotation
  • brake inspection
  • fluid level check

Inspect belts and hoses for signs of wear

30,000
24
  • air filter replacement
  • spark plug replacement
  • belt inspection
  • hose inspection
  • transmission fluid check

Replace air filter and spark plugs as needed

60,000
48
  • transmission fluid replacement
  • differential fluid replacement
  • brake fluid replacement
  • coolant flush
  • hose replacement

Perform extensive inspection of drivetrain components

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of drivetrain does the 2018-Present Audi A8 use?

The 2018-Present Audi A8 utilizes a quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which is standard across all trims. This system features a self-locking center differential with a 40:60 torque split (front:rear) under normal conditions, but it can dynamically adjust torque distribution based on driving conditions.

Q2

What is the maximum torque capacity of the Audi A8's drivetrain?

The drivetrain in the Audi A8 is designed to handle up to 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque, depending on the engine variant. For example, the 4.0 TFSI V8 engine produces 600 Nm, while the 3.0 TFSI V6 generates 500 Nm (369 lb-ft).

Q3

Does the Audi A8 drivetrain support hybrid or electric powertrains?

Yes, the Audi A8 is available with a mild-hybrid system (MHEV) on select trims. The 48-volt electrical system supports the drivetrain by providing additional torque and improving fuel efficiency. However, it does not support fully electric powertrains.

Q4

What is the recommended service interval for the drivetrain components?

Audi recommends inspecting the drivetrain components, including the differential and driveshaft, every 30,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first. Fluid changes for the differential should be performed every 40,000 miles or as specified in the owner's manual.

Q5

Can the Audi A8's drivetrain be modified for off-road use?

The Audi A8's drivetrain is optimized for on-road performance and is not designed for off-road use. Modifications to the drivetrain for off-road purposes may void the warranty and compromise vehicle safety.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

Audi A8 Drivetrain Technical Overview

Coming Soon

Detailed technical specifications and diagrams of the quattro all-wheel-drive system used in the Audi A8.

Audi A8 Maintenance Schedule

Coming Soon

Official maintenance schedule for the Audi A8, including drivetrain inspection and fluid change intervals.

Audi Genuine Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Access the official catalog for genuine Audi drivetrain components, ensuring compatibility and warranty compliance.

Audi A8 Owner's Manual

Coming Soon

Download the official owner's manual for the Audi A8, containing detailed information on drivetrain operation and care.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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