Audi S8 plus

Sedan 2015–2017 605 hp Petrol Turbo

The Audi S8 plus is the ultimate expression of the D4 A8 generation — 605 hp from a tuned 4.0 TFSI V8, a 305 km/h top speed, and the discreet exterior of a luxury executive saloon that conceals hypercar-rivalling performance beneath.

605

Horsepower

3.8s

0–100 km/h

305km/h

Top Speed

750Nm

Peak Torque

Overview

The Audi S8 plus was introduced at the 2014 Paris Motor Show and produced from 2015 to 2017, representing the pinnacle of the D4 A8 generation's performance programme. Starting from the S8's already formidable 520 hp 4.0 TFSI V8, Audi's engineers extracted an additional 85 hp through higher boost pressure, revised turbocharger mapping, and recalibrated fuel injection — raising the output to 605 hp and 750 Nm of torque. This placed the S8 plus in direct competition with the BMW M760i and Mercedes-AMG S 65 while maintaining the restrained exterior appearance of the standard S8. The transformation is invisible to the uninitiated: the only external clues are discreet "S8 plus" badging and larger air intakes in the front bumper.

The S8 plus completed the 0–100 km/h sprint in just 3.8 seconds — quicker than most contemporary sports cars — before reaching a governed top speed of 250 km/h on standard specification, or 305 km/h with the optional dynamic package that removed the electronic limiter. The 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox and quattro AWD system managed the 750 Nm with composure that belied the car's 2,025 kg kerb weight. Audi's sport air suspension, adaptive dampers, and active stabiliser system coordinated to deliver body control that would embarrass cars half the S8 plus's size and weight. The interior remained full A8 specification — Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System, Valcona leather, and the Audi virtual cockpit — with the addition of carbon fibre inlays and S sport seats.

In Azerbaijan, the Audi S8 plus occupies the apex of pre-owned luxury performance: it offers a combination of space, technology, power, and brand prestige that is difficult to match at any price. As the D4 generation has aged, S8 plus values have settled into a range that represents exceptional performance per unit of cost — the car's 605 hp and 3.8-second sprint time remain impressive by modern standards. For buyers seeking a discreet ultra-performance luxury saloon that draws no attention while offering supercar-rivalling straight-line performance, the S8 plus remains one of the most compelling choices in the high-performance executive market. Its combination of quattro all-weather capability, full family-luxury interior, and extraordinary power makes it uniquely versatile.

S8 plus in Pictures

Visual references for exterior styling, cabin design, and key details. Images fall back gracefully on load error.

Audi S8 plus — the pinnacle of the D4 A8 generation, with 605 hp and a 305 km/h top speed

The S8 plus retains the S8's restrained executive appearance while hiding a dramatically upgraded powertrain beneath

Quad exhaust tips, larger rear diffuser, and subtle S8 plus badging signal the elevated specification

The S8 plus interior combines full A8 luxury with sport seats, carbon fibre inlays, and Bang & Olufsen audio

Key Specifications

Body: 4-door luxury executive sedan (D4 A8 platform, aluminium space frame)
Engine: 4.0 TFSI twin-turbo V8 — 605 hp at 6,000 rpm / 750 Nm at 1,750–5,500 rpm
Drive: quattro permanent AWD (Torsen centre differential)
Transmission: 8-speed ZF torque-converter automatic
0–100 km/h: 3.8 seconds | Top speed: 250 km/h (305 km/h with dynamic package)
Kerb weight: 2,025 kg | Fuel consumption: NEDC 9.6 l/100 km
Air suspension: adaptive air with active stabilisers and electromagnetic dampers
Production: 2015–2017 | Predecessor peak output: 520 hp (standard S8)

Variant Comparison

Variant	Engine	Power	Drive	Best For
S8 (D4, 2012–2017)	4.0 TFSI V8 biturbo	520 hp	quattro AWD	Buyers who want full luxury at a lower price point — the standard S8's 520 hp is still extraordinary and offers better value for those who do not need the ultimate 605 hp specification
S8 plus (D4, 2015–2017)	4.0 TFSI V8 biturbo+	605 hp	quattro AWD	The absolute pinnacle of D4 S8 performance — 605 hp, 750 Nm, and 3.8 s to 100 km/h in a discreet luxury saloon; the definitive choice for maximum performance
S8 (D5, 2019–present)	4.0 TFSI V8 mild hybrid	571 hp	quattro AWD	Technology-forward buyers who want modern connectivity and mild-hybrid efficiency alongside S-level performance — the D5 S8 offers a more advanced overall package

Competitor Snapshot

Model	Strength	Compromise
BMW M760i xDrive	V12 engine with smoother power delivery and stronger brand performance credibility; more recognisable M badge appeal in Azerbaijan	Higher purchase and running costs; heavier and more complex V12 powertrain maintenance; less quattro AWD reputation
Mercedes-AMG S 63	More contemporary generation, available with new MBUX interface and mild-hybrid; slightly more flamboyant exterior presence	Higher price than equivalent-era S8 plus; biturbo V8 does not match the S8 plus for sheer drama and outright speed at this specification level
Porsche Panamera Turbo S	More driver-focused with sharper handling and less weight; Porsche prestige brand; better resale value retention	Less rear passenger space — a four-door saloon vs the S8 plus's full-size executive wheelbase; significantly higher purchase price

Cost-of-Ownership Estimator (Azerbaijan)

Annual distance (km)Fuel consumption (L/100km)Fuel price ($/L)Annual service budget ($)Annual insurance ($)Annual tires ($)

Annual fuel use: 2500 litres
Annual fuel cost: $1625
Total yearly estimate: $9525
Monthly average: $794

The 4.0 TFSI V8 in the S8 plus runs cylinder deactivation under light loads — this system relies on clean oil and should be serviced every 5,000 km to prevent solenoid sticking.
Air suspension maintenance is the primary long-term cost concern — compressor and air strut replacement on the full-size A8 platform is expensive; annual inspection is essential.
The S8 plus brakes are large but the vehicle's weight means serious track use or repeated high-speed stops cause rapid fade — plan brake fluid changes every 18 months for sustained performance.

Maintenance & Service in Azerbaijan

Oil and filter change every 5,000 km using Audi-approved 5W-30 or 5W-40 fully synthetic — the high-output 4.0 TFSI generates substantial thermal load and demands the strictest oil maintenance.
Air suspension system inspection annually — check all four air struts for leaks, measure compressor run times, and inspect the ride height sensors; leaking struts cause gradual sag and handling deterioration.
Brake fluid replacement every 18 months — the S8 plus's large 420 mm front brakes on the optional dynamic package require fresh fluid capable of withstanding high thermal stress.
Spark plug replacement every 40,000 km — the twin-turbocharged V8 combustion conditions are demanding; worn plugs cause hesitation under boost and increase exhaust temperature.
quattro and differential service every 60,000 km — inspect the Torsen centre differential, front and rear differentials, and propshaft for correct lubrication and no play.

Used S8 plus Buying Checklist

Inspect all four air suspension struts with the vehicle on a level surface — check for settling overnight, which indicates leaking struts; listen for compressor cycling that reveals system demand.
Test the cylinder deactivation system by driving at light throttle — a functioning system should be virtually imperceptible; rough idle or vibration indicates solenoid or lifter issues.
Check for timing chain rattle on cold start — the 4.0 TFSI V8 uses a timing chain that should be silent; any rattling on startup requires immediate inspection and possible chain tensioner replacement.
Verify all electronic systems including active lane assist, night vision, and parking system are functional — the D4 A8 carries extensive optional technology and fault repairs can be expensive.
Inspect the panoramic glass roof seals for water ingress — the large glass panel is a common water entry point on high-mileage examples; test in wet conditions or with a hose.
Review full service history for oil change regularity — the S8 plus's 605 hp output requires strict adherence to service intervals; any gaps suggest the car has been run harder than maintained.

S8 plus FAQ — Azerbaijan Buyers

Q: What makes the S8 plus different from the regular S8?

The S8 plus receives a substantially revised engine tune compared to the standard S8. Audi increased boost pressure, revised the turbocharger mapping, and recalibrated the fuel injection and ignition systems to extract 605 hp and 750 Nm — up from 520 hp and 650 Nm in the standard S8. The result is a 0.4-second improvement in 0–100 km/h time (3.8 s vs 4.2 s) and a 305 km/h top speed with the dynamic package (250 km/h for the standard S8). Externally, the differences are deliberately subtle: "S8 plus" rear badging, larger front air intakes, and optional 21-inch alloy wheels distinguish the two models.

Q: How does the S8 plus compare to the current S8 (D5)?

The D5 generation S8 (2019–present) uses a 4.0 TFSI V8 with mild-hybrid 48V technology producing 571 hp and 800 Nm — more torque than the S8 plus but 34 hp less. The D5 S8 reaches 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds — identical to the S8 plus — but benefits from improved efficiency through the mild-hybrid system. The D5 generation is a significantly more technologically advanced car with a more sophisticated interior and Level 2 autonomous driving capability. However, the S8 plus represents better value as a pre-owned purchase, with dramatically lower prices for equivalent performance and fewer electronic systems to develop faults.

Q: Is the Audi S8 plus reliable for high-mileage use?

The S8 plus can be very reliable when properly maintained, but the combination of complex technology and high performance means strict servicing is non-negotiable. The 4.0 TFSI twin-turbo V8 is a robust engine, but the cylinder deactivation system requires clean oil and the high-pressure fuel injection system requires quality fuel. Air suspension is the most common major repair item on high-mileage D4 A8/S8 models, with compressor and strut replacement typically needed between 80,000–120,000 km. The ZF 8-speed automatic is highly durable. With complete service history and no deferred maintenance, an S8 plus with 100,000–150,000 km can be an excellent value proposition.

Q: What fuel does the S8 plus require?

The S8 plus requires 98 RON (super premium) petrol for optimal performance. Using 95 RON is possible but the ECU will retard ignition timing to prevent knock, reducing power output and potentially affecting long-term engine calibration. In Azerbaijan, 98 RON premium fuel is available at major fuel stations in Baku. Given the engine's 605 hp output and 4.0-litre displacement, fuel consumption in mixed driving averages 12–15 litres per 100 km; motorway cruising at 120 km/h drops this to approximately 9–10 litres per 100 km. The cylinder deactivation system deactivates four cylinders under light load to improve city fuel economy.

Q: What are the main ownership costs of the S8 plus in Azerbaijan?

The S8 plus's ownership costs are substantial but predictable. Annual servicing including oil changes (every 5,000 km at Audi rates) costs approximately 1,500–2,500 AZN per year. Tyres are a significant expense — the standard 285/30 ZR21 or 265/35 ZR20 fitments are premium items costing 400–600 AZN per tyre. Insurance is high due to the performance classification. The most significant unexpected cost is air suspension — a full strut replacement for all four corners can reach 4,000–6,000 AZN at a specialist. Budget 8,000–14,000 AZN annually for comprehensive S8 plus ownership in Azerbaijan including fuel, servicing, tyres, and insurance.

Should You Buy the Audi S8 plus?

The S8 plus is one of the great sleeper performance cars — 605 hp and supercar pace in a luxury saloon that attracts no attention until the accelerator is pressed.

The Audi S8 plus appeals to a specific type of enthusiast: someone who wants genuine hypercar-level performance without the impracticality, attention, or compromises that come with an actual supercar. The 605 hp V8 in a full-size, four-seat, four-wheel-drive luxury saloon is an extraordinary combination — one that allows airport runs, business meetings, and track days to be handled with equal composure. As a pre-owned purchase, the S8 plus now represents one of the most dramatic value propositions in the high-performance car market — its 3.8-second sprint time, 305 km/h capability, and full A8 luxury are available for a fraction of their original price. For the discerning buyer in Azerbaijan seeking the ultimate discrete performance saloon, the S8 plus deserves serious consideration.