2004 Audi A8 L Road Test

Audi also didn't show a single model in J. D. Powers' Top Three Vehicles per Segment study. What's more, when comparing corporate VDS rankings its parent company Volkswagen rated 13th place out of 16 automakers, with Toyota (Lexus) number two, Honda (Acura) number three, Nissan (Infiniti) number four and BMW number five. In case you were wondering, sports car manufacturer Porsche placed first.

While the A8 is still my favorite in terms of styling and performance, I expected a lot more considering its luxury price tag. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

In the end, I'm truly disappointed in the A8 L. While it's still my favorite as far as exterior styling and its adrenaline inducing performance is second to none, if I was forking over somewhere between $97,750 for the base car and $115,000 for a fully loaded version I'd expect a lot more. One item after another it just doesn't measure up in the highly competitive premium brand flagship segment. Too bad, as I had my heart set on one when that big insurance settlement in the sky cashes in. Hopefully Audi will refine some of its details and bring what could be a class leader up to par.

Specifications:

• Price Range (MSRP): $97,750 - $115,000
• Body Type: 4-door sedan
• Layout: front engine, AWD
• Engine: 330-hp, 317 lb-ft torque, 4.2-L, 40-valve, DOHC V8
• Transmission: 6-spd auto with manual mode
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS with EDS
• Curb Weight: 1,995 kg (4,398 lbs)
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Volume (trunk): 500 L (17.7 cu ft)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 16.0 / 10.1 L/100km
• Fuel Type: premium unleaded
• Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive
• Competitive Vehicles: BMW 745iL, Infiniti Q45, Jaguar XJR, Lexus LS 430, Mercedes-Benz S500
• Web Site: www.audicanada.ca