Spied: 2012 Audi S8

Audi claims it builds the sportiest cars in the premium segment, but another carmaker headquartered just 50 miles south, BMW, begs to differ. The battle is raging—and we couldn’t be happier. Early next year, Audi will launch its sportiest A8, the S8, as its latest volley. From what we know so far, it has the potential to become our favorite luxury car.

Powered by a twin-turbocharged, 4.0-liter V-8, the upcoming S8 will make 450 hp, matching the current model's naturally aspirated V-10. But it will produce significantly more low-end torque, which is one of our few issues with the current S8. The V-10 never felt as strong as its power suggested, although we will miss the sweet sound, which suggests that of a distant Formula 1 racer. What we won't miss is the V-10's appetite for fuel; the turbocharged V-8 will bring considerable improvement in that regard.

The upcoming 4.0-liter V-8 is a new, direct-injection engine which will also be built in a single-turbo configuration with a 400-hp rating. The lower-output unit will be offered in the regular A8, where it will replace the current naturally aspirated, 4.2-liter V-8. And it will power the S7, the sporty top-of-the-line version of the hatchback A7.

The Audi S8 will be differentiated from the regular A8 by exclusive S wheels, a four-outlet exhaust system, and an integrated rear spoiler. The interior will reflect its sporting aspirations with special seats and trim.

"Audi is pursuing the same path which BMW is following with its M models, where the lack of synergies with Formula 1 has led to the abandonment of V-10 engines," says Andrew Fulbrook, analyst at CSM Worldwide in London. He predicts that "Audi's V-10 engines will be limited to the R8 and to Lamborghini."

The S8 will be the sportiest A8, but not the most powerful: This honor will belong to the A8 W12, which will be launched this fall with a naturally aspirated, 6.3-liter W-12 that makes 500 hp. That's less than BMW's turbocharged 760Li, but the Audi, with its all-aluminum body, is the lighter car. Keep the battle going, we say.

Thanks to: Car and Driver