Let's be honest, there's a certain magic to the idea of wafting along in a car that feels less like a machine and more like a private jet for the road. Most of us trundle about in sensible, everyday cars, but a little part of us daydreams about that next level of comfort, quality, and sheer, unadulterated luxury. Then you see a used Audi A8 glide past, all understated elegance and quiet confidence, and you realise that first-class travel doesn't have to be a fantasy. This incredible machine wraps up everything that's brilliant about German engineering into one supremely sophisticated and surprisingly attainable package.
Maybe it's that sharp, sophisticated design that first catches your eye, or perhaps it's the promise of a cabin so quiet and comfortable it could soothe away the most stressful of days. Whatever it is that pulls you in, choosing a second-hand Audi A8 means you're getting a true flagship luxury saloon without the jaw-dropping new car price tag. It's a way of joining a very exclusive club of savvy drivers who know that true luxury isn't about shouting the loudest; it's about getting every single detail absolutely perfect.
The really smart part about shopping for a used A8 is that you're getting a car that was built to compete with the very best in the world, while letting the first owner handle that significant initial depreciation. This makes a car packed with cutting-edge technology and exquisite materials much more accessible. Whether you need a mobile office that makes long-distance business trips feel like a pleasure or simply want to experience the very pinnacle of automotive comfort, the Audi A8 is ready to prove that the ultimate luxury experience can be a surprisingly sensible choice.
Why Buy a Used Audi A8?
The Audi A8 is a masterclass in the art of understated excellence. When you're browsing listings for used models, you're looking at a car that delivers an unbeatable combination of technological innovation, supreme comfort, and impeccable build quality—a formula that leaves many rivals looking a bit, well, flashy and over-the-top.
Most luxury cars try to impress with big grilles and dramatic styling. The A8 takes a different, more intelligent approach. It’s a car that impresses with its substance, not just its style. It offers a ride so smooth it feels like you're floating, a cabin so quiet it’s like a sanctuary from the outside world, and the kind of effortless performance that makes every journey feel serene and controlled. It’s just as happy making a statement outside a five-star hotel as it is discreetly cruising down the motorway.
From a financial perspective, a used A8 is one of the shrewdest ways to get into the top tier of motoring. You are getting a car that cost a fortune when new, packed with technology that often doesn't filter down to normal cars for years, all for the price of a mid-range family saloon. The range of powerful yet surprisingly efficient engines, especially the diesels, means that running costs are more manageable than you might think for such a large, capable car.
For anyone who values genuine quality over superficial style, or for business users who spend a lot of time on the road, the A8 is a game-changer. It offers the space and comfort of a limousine, the technology of a Silicon Valley start-up, and the security of quattro all-wheel drive, all wrapped in a discreet and elegant package. It’s proof that the most luxurious choice can also be the most intelligent one.
Audi A8 Overview
The Audi A8 is designed to be the showcase for everything Audi can do, representing the pinnacle of the brand's engineering, technology, and luxury. It's a car built without compromise, intended to provide its owner with the most refined, comfortable, and technologically advanced driving experience possible.
The design is a lesson in quiet confidence. The clean lines, sharp creases, and perfect proportions create a look that is both modern and timeless. It's a big car, but the clever design makes it look sleek and athletic rather than bulky. The signature Singleframe grille and advanced Matrix LED headlights give it a distinctive face, but the overall impression is one of sophisticated restraint. It’s a car for people who have nothing to prove.
Step inside, and you enter a different world. The cabin is a stunning blend of minimalist design, exquisite materials, and state-of-the-art technology. Everything you touch, from the soft Nappa leather to the cool metal switchgear and open-pore wood veneers, feels incredibly special. The famous Audi Virtual Cockpit replaces traditional dials with a beautiful, customisable digital display, while central touchscreens control everything else with slick, haptic feedback.
Of course, the real magic of the A8 is the experience for the passengers. In the back of a long-wheelbase model, you’ll find acres of legroom and seats that can recline, heat, cool, and even massage you. It is a cabin designed not just for travelling, but for arriving at your destination more relaxed than when you left. It’s this focus on total comfort that sets the A8 apart.
Under the skin, the A8 is packed with innovation. Its advanced aluminium space frame makes it lighter and more agile than its size suggests, while standard adaptive air suspension provides an unbelievably smooth ride. The legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures total security and traction in all conditions.
Generations and Trim Breakdown
The Audi A8 has long been at the forefront of luxury and technology, with each generation pushing the boundaries of what's possible in a car.
Third Generation (D4, 2010-2017)
This generation truly established the A8 as a technological powerhouse, introducing features like the Virtual Cockpit's predecessor and advanced driver aids.
SE: The ‘standard’ model was anything but. It came lavishly equipped with full leather upholstery, satellite navigation, adaptive air suspension, and a high-end sound system.
SE Executive: Added even more luxury, with features like enhanced climate control, upgraded leather, and comfort-focused seats.
Sport: A slightly more dynamic-looking model with larger wheels and subtle styling tweaks, but it retained the core focus on comfort.
S8: The high-performance version, with a powerful V8 engine that delivered supercar-like acceleration without sacrificing any of the A8’s luxury.
Fourth Generation (D5, 2017-Present)
The current A8 took another huge leap forward, with a focus on digitalisation, autonomous driving features, and even greater levels of comfort and refinement.
Sport: The entry-point to the range, but still incredibly well-specified with the full Virtual Cockpit, twin MMI touch screens, adaptive air suspension, and a host of safety features.
S line: Adds a sportier look with a distinctive body kit, larger alloy wheels, and sports seats. It provides a more assertive aesthetic while maintaining the supreme comfort of the standard car.
Black Edition: A style-focused model that takes the S line trim and adds a black styling pack to the grille, window surrounds, and other exterior details for a more menacing look.
S8: The ultimate A8, combining a hugely powerful engine with every conceivable luxury and technology feature, including predictive active suspension that can read the road ahead.
Body Style and Trim Comparison
The A8 is fundamentally a luxury saloon, but a few key choices can tailor it to your exact needs.
Standard Wheelbase (SWB): The driver-focused choice. It’s slightly shorter and more agile, making it a little easier to park and more engaging to drive yourself, without giving up much in the way of rear passenger space.
Long Wheelbase (LWB): The ultimate choice for passenger comfort. The extra length is all given over to the rear seats, creating a vast amount of legroom. This is the version to have if you plan on being chauffeured.
TDI (Diesel): The workhorses of the range. The powerful V6 and V8 TDI engines provide immense torque for effortless acceleration and deliver surprisingly good fuel economy, making them perfect for high-mileage drivers.
TFSI (Petrol): The smooth and refined choice. The petrol engines, including the mighty W12 on older models, offer serene power delivery and a quieter driving experience.
TFSI e (Plug-in Hybrid): The modern, efficient choice. Combining a powerful petrol engine with an electric motor, the hybrid A8 can run on silent electric power for shorter journeys, offering the best of both worlds.
quattro All-Wheel Drive: Standard on all A8 models, this is a core part of the car's identity, providing exceptional traction, stability, and safety in all weather conditions.
What to Look for When Buying
Flawless Service History: On a car this complex and expensive, a complete Audi main dealer or specialist service history is non-negotiable. Check that all scheduled maintenance, including crucial gearbox oil changes and air suspension services, has been done on time.
Air Suspension: The adaptive air suspension is key to the A8’s magical ride. Check that the car sits level and that it can raise and lower itself correctly using the different driving modes. Any warning lights or strange noises could signal a very expensive repair is on the horizon.
Electronics Check: The A8 is packed with an incredible amount of technology. Spend a lot of time in the cabin testing absolutely everything. Check both touchscreens, the Virtual Cockpit, the massaging seats, the electric blinds, the sound system – everything. Electrical gremlins can be frustrating and costly to fix.
Gearbox Operation: The smooth automatic gearbox should be almost imperceptible in its operation. On your test drive, make sure it changes gear seamlessly with no jerks, hesitation, or clunks, both when accelerating and slowing down.
Bodywork and Wheels: These are large cars that can be tricky to park. Inspect the aluminium body panels carefully for any dents or scratches, and check the large alloy wheels for any signs of kerb damage, as repairs can be expensive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average price of a used Audi A8?
This is where the A8 becomes a brilliant used buy. A third-generation model can be found for between £12,000 and £25,000, which is incredible value. The current fourth-generation cars typically range from £30,000 to £50,000, depending on age, engine, and specification.
Where can I find a used Audi A8 for sale near me?
Cazoo offers a fantastic selection of high-quality used Audi A8 models. Our easy-to-use online platform allows you to browse cars from all over the UK, review their detailed history, and have your chosen luxury saloon delivered right to your home.
What should I check when buying a second-hand A8?
The three most important things are a perfect service history, the correct operation of the air suspension system, and a thorough test of every single electronic gadget and feature inside the car.
Is the Audi A8 a reliable car?
Yes, the A8 has a reputation for being exceptionally well-built. With its aluminium construction and high-quality components, it’s designed to last. However, this reliability is heavily dependent on it being maintained correctly, which is why that service history is so crucial.
How can I finance a used Audi A8?
Cazoo offers a range of flexible and straightforward finance options to make buying your A8 more manageable. We provide both Hire Purchase (HP) and Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) with clear terms to suit your financial situation.
Is the A8 very expensive to run?
While it will naturally cost more to run than a small hatchback, it can be surprisingly reasonable for a flagship luxury car. The TDI diesel engines are capable of over 40 mpg on a long run. Servicing at a good independent Audi specialist can be much more affordable than main dealer prices.
If you plan on carrying rear passengers regularly or will be chauffeured, then absolutely. The extra rear legroom transforms the car into a genuine limousine and makes the experience even more special for those in the back. If you'll mainly be driving yourself, the standard model is more than spacious enough.
How does it compare to its main rivals?
The Audi A8's key strengths are its understated styling, its beautiful and technologically advanced interior, and the security of its standard quattro all-wheel-drive system. While some rivals may offer a slightly more dynamic driving experience, none can match the A8's blend of modern luxury and discreet elegance.
