2019 Audi A8 teased ahead of July 11 reveal

By, 2017-06-13

Audi is planning to unveil the new, fourth-generation A8 on July 11 at an event in Barcelona, Spain.

The CEO Rupert Stadler said the car will be “generously dimensioned” and feature “a completely new operating concept.”

The new operating concept for the all new Audi A8 is a driver assist feature with Level 3 self-driving capability. Level 3 is where the car can handle certain situations with no need for monitoring by the driver. In other words, a hands-off, eyes-off experience.

Up to date all the self-driving systems are at Level 2, because they require constant monitoring by the driver. Level 5, the ultimate goal, is where a car can handle all situations by itself and no longer requires a driver on board.

Audi says its new A8 will offer Level 3 self-driving capability in traffic jams at speeds of up to 59 km/h. The car will also be able to handle some parking situations by itself, as previewed in the advertorial video.

Evolutionary styling is clearly on the menu for the new A8. The wheelbase has been increased slightly which should lead to a bit more space in the cabin.

Underpinning the car is the latest evolution of the Volkswagen Group's MLB platform, and in the powertrain department there should be V-6, V-8 and W-12 options. A sporty S8 is also in the works.

Regardless of the powertrain, the A8 will feature a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Mild-hybrid systems replace the separate starter motor and generator (commonly referred to as an alternator) by a single, powerful motor-generator. This motor-generator aids the engine during high-load situations and recovers energy under braking.

The new A8 will go on sale in 2018, as a 2019 model.