Audi plans to prolong the lifecycle of the current A8 for several more years due to the delayed introduction of its fully electric successor. The decision is driven by the aim to leverage the sales success of the ICE-powered A8 in China and to refrain from introducing an all-new E-Tron flagship sedan amidst lower-than-anticipated EV demand.
The fourth generation of the Audi A8 (D5) debuted in 2017 and underwent a mid-lifecycle update in late 2021. Originally, an all-new fully electric successor, previewed by the Grandsphere concept, was slated for a 2024 release. However, it now seems this launch will be delayed until at least 2027. With the absence of an A8 E-Tron in the near future, Audi might consider another facelift to maintain the current model’s appeal for several additional years.
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2022 Audi A8
An Audi spokesperson told German magazine AMS that there are currently no plans to cease A8 production, citing the strong sales performance of the existing model in China. While the spokesperson didn’t provide details on Audi’s future plans, the publication reports that discussions about another facelift for the A8 are underway within the company. It’s worth noting that a similar strategy was employed with the Audi Q7, which received its second facelift earlier this year, despite having been originally introduced back in 2015.
Large ICE-powered sedans continue to enjoy popularity among buyers in China, where Audi offers the A8 L alongside the even longer and more luxurious Horch trim, stretching to 5,422 mm (213.5 inches). In response to customer interest, the automaker plans to introduce additional personalization options for its flagship sedan in China. Whether similar options will be available in European and North American markets remains to be seen.
Rivals of the Audi A8 include the BMW 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class which are offered alongside fully electric alternatives in the form of the BMW i7 and the Mercedes EQS. However, those seeking a battery-electric sedan with the Audi badge will have to settle for the upcoming A6 E-Tron or opt for the sleeker, low-slung E-Tron GT.
