2006 Audi A8 L 4.2 Review

I have keenness for certain numerals and combinations thereof, such

Normally high-end luxury cars have triple digit numbers. All Audi needs is 8, as in A8 (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

as 8, 45, 430, 550, 750, and 760. No, these aren't my lucky lottery numbers picked by a Gypsy fortuneteller, they're model designators for several premium automotive models. Aficionados of full-size sedans ought to immediately spot the pattern: Audi A8, (or Jaguar XJ8), Infiniti Q45, Lexus LS 430, Mercedes S550, BMW 750i and 760Li. Whether one embraces the big sedan or laments it, there's little argument that these numbers represent some of the finest automobiles in the full-size sedan segment. This week's road test shines the spotlight on the number "8," as in A8.

The

The A8 L was the first of the second-generation A8s to debut. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

aluminum-bodied A8 has been Audi's flagship sedan since its introduction in the 1997 model year. Adding an "L" to the "A8" designation also adds 130 mm (5.1 in) of length to the car, resulting in limousine-like rear seating. Personally I think the "L" versions are too long for typical ownership. They're more suited to CEOs with drivers rather than parents with 2.5 kids - but hey, it's unlikely my chequing account will soon cover the $116,000 price tag hung on my tester, so why worry. That said, the A8 L's steep price-point buys a tremendous amount of wood, leather and cutting-edge technology, not to mention opulence, prestige and impressive performance, and who can put a price on that! Okay, back to reality. 2006 Audi A8 L 4.2 Review from (http://www.auto123.com/en/car-reviews/new/2006-audi-a8-l-42-road-test?artid=58545)