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The words “Oh my goodness” come to mind when you take a look at the 2014 Audi 8L TDI Quattro Tiptonic. That’s not just the first glance either, because it impresses time and again before you even drive this beautiful machine. The long wheelbase extends this marvel, as the A8 embodies premium and functional design, progressive technology and advanced engineering and performance.

EXTERIOR

If you are okay with the “wow” factor, then keep an eye on the 2014 Audi 8L TDI Quattro Tiptonic when searching for your luxury sedan. The Audi A8 flagship sedan exudes modern elegance, luxury and dynamism. With its sweeping lines and uniquely bold Audi Singleframe grill with angled corners and horizontal chrome struts, the A8 delivers a striking visual statement. New for 2014, the Audi A8 Premium package option as tested includes powerful yet efficient full LED headlights that give the A8 a distinctive and unmistakable Audi appearance. Also featured on our test model were 20-inch, 10-spoke wheels that literally light up the road. The understated luxury actually makes more of an impression than some rivals that go out of their way to get noticed.

INTERIOR

Inside, the spacious A8 features meticulous craftsmanship and modern yet functional design elements. A new Premium package for the A8 3.0T, 4.0T and TDI includes 22-way front seats with ventilation, making any long drive enjoyable. Ventilated and massage rear seats have been added to the Rear Seat Comfort plus package for the long wheel base 3.0T, 4.0T and TDI models, which can be combined with the diamond stitch interior of the Luxury package. The interior space is endless and the rear leg room is just ridiculous, as some limos could get jealous from what the 2014 Audi 8L TDI Quattro Tiptonic offers. Luxury is at your every turn with heated 18-way power front seats with memory, four-zone automatic climate control, power rear window and rear side window sunshades, Audi parking system and high-tech rearview camera and extended leather package.

The 2014 A8 model line is equipped standard with the award-winning infotainment system, Audi connect. Audi was the first global auto manufacturer to offer factory-fitted in-vehicle Wi-Fi connectivity for passenger use, enabling the Audi connect system to deliver connectivity to up to eight wireless devices. With Audi connect – offered complementary for six months and available for as little as $15 per month thereafter – the onboard Audi MMI Navigation system is enhanced with Google Earth maps for a true aerial view of the route. Audi connect also features real-time localized weather, news and live fuel prices; Google Voice Local Search for detailed information about travel destinations, such as restaurant or hotel hours, pricing and customer reviews; and the myAudi Destination feature, which allows users to log on to Google Earth from virtually any location in the U.S. and download up to 50 destinations to the vehicle. Audi also offers real-time Sirius XM Traffic information via enhancements to the Audi MMI Navigation plus system (active Sirius XM Traffic subscription required).

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PERFORMANCE

After driving the 2014 Audi 8L TDI Quattro Tiptronic, your take on what a clean diesel car can achieve will change forever! The A8 L TDI clean diesel version of Audi’s flagship sedan makes a powerful statement in achieving the best fuel economy in its segment with an EPA estimated 24 city/ 36 highway/ 28 combined miles per gallon that exceeds that of diesel and hybrid competitors alike. At the same time, the 3.0 liter V6 turbocharged clean diesel engine generates an impressive 240 hp and 406 lb-ft. of torque, seamlessly launching from 0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds delivering all of the efficiency benefits without compromising performance. The Audi A8 was the first car in North American with an aluminum body built according to the Audi Space Frame (ASF) principle. ASF is a high-strength aluminum frame structure into which the panels are integrated so that they also perform a load-bearing function. The aluminum body is characterized by exceptional stiffness and substantially lower weight for better performance, efficiency and handling. All 2014 Audi 8s are mated to an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and feature the confidence-inspiring Audi quattro all-wheel drive system.

The driving experience was dynamic and impressive, with top line power and handling that amazes with a vehicle of this length. Unless someone tells you this engine is diesel, one would not pick out the diesel engine when you hear this car run. After driving the 2014 Audi 8L TDI Quattro Tiptronic, I have so much more respect for diesel engines and the fuel efficiency that comes with the advances in other areas as well.

OVERVIEW

There have not been many cars that received the attention that our glacier white metallic A8L garnered this past week. And when folks had the chance to ride in this advanced auto, they were just blown away by the craftsmanship, ride and sheer beauty of the A8. Cars like the 2014 Audi 8L TDI Quattro Tiptronic offer so much, and for a price as tested of $99,445, you will get just about everything one could expect in a car. What a week driving the 2014 Audi 8L TDI Quattro Tiptronic, and one we won’t forget!