“Germans need to measure the average size of beverage containers in the United States. I can hardly find a cup that will squeeze into cup holders in the front seat. I love the car and the one thing I use every day (cupholder) is too small. Just 1/2 inch larger would make a huge improvement.”
2021 Audi S8: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2021 Audi S8 is that 21-inch wheels become standard. This is otherwise a light equipment update, not a redesign, with the twin-turbo V8, AWD system, and cabin layout carrying over.
About the 2021 Audi S8
4th gen S8 (D5, 2020-2024), second model year and last pre-refresh year before the 2022 styling update.
Audi positions the S8 as a full-size flagship sport sedan that blends high-speed capability with luxury-sedan comfort. It is aimed at drivers who want the space, quietness, and technology of the A8 but with much stronger performance and more athletic handling. Its appeal is the mix of a powerful twin-turbo V8, standard AWD traction, advanced chassis hardware, and a subtle design that does not advertise its pace as loudly as some rivals.
For 2021, Audi positions the S8 as an understated flagship sedan that blends serious performance with long-distance comfort. Its twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 works with AWD, rear-wheel steering, and an eight-speed automatic. Cabin highlights include dual touchscreens, built-in navigation, a digital instrument display, premium Bang & Olufsen audio, and heated, ventilated, massaging front seats.
What changed, by category
Styling
The standard wheel size increases to 21 inches. There is no body restyle.
Tech
Heated front armrests become standard equipment.
Safety
Blind-spot sensors move from standard equipment to optional equipment.
2021 Audi S8 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd & Tiptronic |
| Drivetrain | Quattro AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 13 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 563 hp |
| Torque | 590 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 12.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 44.3 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |
| Automatic High Beams | |
| Blindspot Sensors | |
| Lane Departure Warning | |
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| LED Headlights | |
| Panorama Moon Roof | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Smartphone Interface | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Heated Steering Wheel | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |
| Ventilated Front Seats | |
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Audi S8 redesigned?
No. The 2021 Audi S8 carries over the fourth-generation design introduced for 2020, with only light equipment changes rather than a full redesign.
What changed on the 2021 Audi S8 compared with the 2020 model?
The 2021 S8 makes 21-inch wheels and heated front armrests standard. Blind-spot sensors move from standard to optional equipment, while the engine, transmission, AWD system, and basic cabin design remain unchanged.
Does the 2021 Audi S8 have the same engine as the 2020 model?
Yes. The 2021 S8 retains the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, eight-speed automatic transmission, and quattro AWD system used in the 2020 model.
What safety equipment changed on the 2021 Audi S8?
Blind-spot sensors became optional instead of standard for 2021. No other significant lineup-wide safety-system change is identified for this model year.
Is the 2021 Audi S8 a major upgrade over the 2020 model?
No. The two model years are mechanically very similar, so the 2021 model’s main differences are standard 21-inch wheels, standard heated front armrests, and blind-spot sensors becoming optional.
2021 Audi S8 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 Audi S8.
4.4
2021 Audi S8
(5 reviews)
“The car is overly reliant on touch screens. To access nearly all functions, driver must look away from the road too long to navigate non-intuitive sub-menus. Audi's old MMI with the knob and buttons was better. The auto press has criticized Audi (and VW) for this. My next car will be a Golf R, which has received similar comments.”