2010 Audi A8: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2010 Audi A8 is a simplified U.S. lineup: the W12 and S8 are gone, leaving the regular A8 and long-wheelbase A8 L with the 4.2-liter V8. Otherwise, this final year before the 2011 redesign is a light update.
About the 2010 Audi A8
2nd gen (D3/4E, 2004-2010), final model year before the all-new 2011 redesign.
Audi positions the A8 as its flagship luxury sedan for buyers who want engineering substance as much as status. The big themes are the lightweight aluminum body, standard quattro all-wheel drive, strong V8 power, and a cabin trimmed with real wood, leather, and a navigation-centered control system. Compared with rivals that lean more toward badge prestige or soft isolation, the A8 is sold as a full-size luxury sedan that still feels secure, capable, and driver-focused.
The regular A8 is the more driver-focused version, with 19-inch wheels, an integrated rear spoiler, navigation, a rearview camera, and Bose audio. The roomier A8 L focuses more on rear-seat space and comfort, with ventilated and massaging front seats and four-zone climate control. Both use a 350-horsepower V8, a six-speed automatic, all-wheel drive, and adjustable air suspension.
What changed, by category
2010 Audi A8 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 4.2 Liter | V8, 4.2 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd OD Tiptronic | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Tiptronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 350 hp | 350 hp |
| Torque | 325 lb-ft | 325 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 14.6 cu-ft | 14.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.6 in | 42.3 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| 4-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | ||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Massage Front Seat | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2010 Audi A8?
The biggest change is the smaller U.S. lineup. Audi drops the W12 and S8, leaving the regular A8 and long-wheelbase A8 L with the 4.2-liter V8.
Is the 2010 Audi A8 a redesigned model?
No. The 2010 A8 is the final model year of the second-generation design, with only light equipment and lineup changes before the all-new 2011 model arrives.
What became standard on every 2010 Audi A8?
LED daytime running lights became standard on both the regular A8 and the longer A8 L. The existing navigation and infotainment setup otherwise carried over.
How did the regular 2010 A8 change from 2009?
The regular-wheelbase 2010 A8 gained standard LED daytime running lights, 19-inch wheels, and an integrated rear spoiler. Its 4.2-liter V8, six-speed automatic, and all-wheel drive continued.
How did the 2010 A8 L change from 2009?
The 2010 A8 L added standard LED daytime running lights, ventilated and massaging front seats, contrast-stitched upholstery, and previously optional climate-control equipment.