2016 Audi S8: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2016 Audi S8 is the arrival of the S8 plus, a more aggressive new trim with a 605-hp twin-turbo V8. The regular S8 carries over without a redesign.
About the 2016 Audi S8
D4-generation S8, late-cycle facelift-era year.
Audi positions the S8 as a full-size luxury sedan that delivers serious speed without the flashy look of some rivals. Its identity is the mix of a twin-turbo V8, standard all-wheel drive, rich interior materials, and real long-distance comfort. For most buyers, the appeal is simple: flagship Audi luxury with much stronger acceleration and sharper responses than a typical large luxury sedan.
The regular S8 remains a discreet full-size luxury sedan with serious performance, pairing a 520-hp twin-turbo V8 with all-wheel drive and adaptive air suspension. Its comfort features include heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats plus a head-up display, while the S8 plus adds 605 hp and sharper exterior details.
What changed, by category
2016 Audi S8 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 8-Spd Tiptronic Spt | Auto, 8-Spd Tiptronic Spt |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 27 mpg | 27 mpg |
| Horsepower | 520 hp | 605 hp |
| Torque | 481 lb-ft | 516 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 14.2 cu-ft | 14.2 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38.7 in | 38.7 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Audi S8?
The biggest change is the debut of the S8 plus. It raises output from the regular S8’s 520 hp to 605 hp and adds trim-specific exterior details.
Is the 2016 Audi S8 a redesign?
No, the 2016 Audi S8 is not a redesign. It remains part of the D4 generation, with the new S8 plus joining the existing model range.
How is the 2016 S8 plus different from the regular S8?
The S8 plus is the more powerful and visually aggressive version. Its twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 produces 605 hp instead of 520 hp, and it has distinct details such as a rear lip spoiler and silver mirror caps.
Did the 2016 Audi S8 receive any safety changes?
Yes. Automatic emergency braking became standard across the 2016 S8 lineup after being optional for 2015.
Did the 2016 Audi S8’s technology equipment change?
Yes. The smartphone interface moved from standard equipment in 2015 to optional equipment for 2016, while there was no broader infotainment overhaul.
2016 Audi S8 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Audi S8.