2011 Audi A8: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2011 Audi A8 is a full redesign and the first U.S. model year of the fourth-generation sedan. Its headline change is an all-new, larger aluminum-intensive body, joined by a stronger V8, a new transmission, and updated cabin technology.
About the 2011 Audi A8
4th generation (D4), first U.S. model year and full redesign year.
Audi positions the A8 as a full-size luxury sedan for buyers who want top-tier comfort and technology without giving up a sense of driver involvement. Its big selling points are standard quattro all-wheel drive, a lighter aluminum structure than many rivals, understated styling, and a cabin built around advanced controls and materials. In short-wheelbase form it leans more toward the driver; in A8 L form it adds more rear-seat space and formal luxury.
The standard-wheelbase A8 4.2 Quattro is the more driver-focused version, while the longer A8 L puts greater emphasis on rear-seat room and comfort. Both use a 372-hp V8, an 8-speed automatic, all-wheel drive, adaptive air suspension, and a navigation system with touchpad handwriting input. The A8 L adds conveniences such as power-closing doors, a power-operated trunk, and rear and rear-side sunshades.
What changed, by category
2011 Audi A8 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 4.2 Liter | V8, 4.2 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 8-Spd Tiptronic | Auto, 8-Spd Tiptronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 27 mpg | 27 mpg |
| Horsepower | 372 hp | 372 hp |
| Torque | 328 lb-ft | 328 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 13.2 cu-ft | 13.2 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38.7 in | 42.9 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Power Close Liftgate/Trunk | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual Power Rear Seats | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Executive Rear Seating | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Massage Rear Seat | ||
| Memory Rear Seats | ||
| Rear Window Shades | ||
| Refrigerator/Cooler | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
| Ventilated Rear Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2011 Audi A8 fully redesigned?
Yes. The 2011 Audi A8 is the first U.S. model year of the fourth generation, with a new aluminum-intensive body, updated powertrain, redesigned cabin technology, and revised chassis systems.
What engine and transmission does the 2011 Audi A8 use?
The 2011 Audi A8 uses a 372-hp 4.2-liter V8 paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard on both the regular A8 and the longer A8 L.
What is the difference between the 2011 Audi A8 and A8 L?
The 2011 A8 L has a longer body and more emphasis on rear-seat space and comfort. It shares the regular A8’s V8, 8-speed automatic, all-wheel drive, and adaptive air suspension, while adding power-closing doors, a power-operated trunk, and rear-side sunshades.
What technology was new in the 2011 Audi A8?
The redesigned 2011 A8 introduced a navigation and infotainment system with touchpad handwriting input and real-time traffic information. It also came with adaptive air suspension, selectable driving modes, and Audi pre sense basic.
How does the 2011 Audi A8 differ from the 2010 model?
The 2011 A8 is a new-generation car rather than a light update. Compared with the 2010 model, it has a larger redesigned aluminum-intensive body, a stronger 372-hp V8, a new 8-speed automatic, updated navigation controls, and standard adaptive air suspension with selectable driving modes.