
Audi S-Class belongs to the D-segment cars. Generally, there are A, B, C, and D-segment cars, with standards varying from country to country. China lacks a unified standard, and since German cars were the first to form joint ventures and occupy a certain market share in China, the German classification method is often adopted. According to the German car classification standard: 1. A-segment cars: A00-segment cars should have a wheelbase between 2 meters and 2.2 meters, with an engine displacement of less than 1 liter; A0-segment cars have a wheelbase of 2.2 meters to 2.3 meters, and a displacement of 1 to 1.3 liters; Generally, A-segment cars have a wheelbase ranging from 2.3 meters to 2.45 meters, and a displacement of about 1.3 to 1.6 liters. 2. B-segment cars: B-segment mid-size cars have a wheelbase of about 2.45 meters to 2.6 meters, with a displacement ranging from 1.6 liters to 2.4 liters. 3. C-segment cars: C-segment premium cars have a wheelbase of about 2.6 meters to 2.8 meters, with an engine displacement of 2.3 to 3.0 liters. 4. D-segment cars: D-segment luxury cars are mostly imposing in appearance, with extremely spacious interiors and very powerful engines. Their wheelbase is generally greater than 2.8 meters, and the displacement is basically above 3.0 liters.

To be honest, I've always considered Audi quite premium, but I should clarify that Audi doesn't have a model directly called the "S-Class"—that's Mercedes-Benz's flagship luxury sedan. Audi's equivalent top-tier sedan is the A8 series, positioned in the high-end luxury segment. I've driven the A8 a few times myself, and the feeling is incredibly stable, with outstanding noise insulation and comfort. The price typically exceeds a million RMB, making it a true executive-level vehicle. Among luxury brands, Audi stands alongside Mercedes-Benz and BMW as the three German giants, with the A8 directly competing against the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7 Series—absolutely top-tier in terms of prestige. That said, Audi also has its S-series performance models like the S8, which is more powerful and faster than the A8, but overall, the A8 represents Audi's pinnacle of luxury, ideal for business leaders or those seeking the ultimate driving and riding experience. If your budget allows, choosing it is a no-brainer—the sense of premium quality radiates from inside out, including exquisite interiors and innovative tech like the virtual cockpit and safety assistance systems.

Speaking of the Audi S-Class, Audi doesn't officially use this name—it's likely a simplified term people use to refer to performance models like the S8. However, the true flagship is the A8, which I believe unquestionably belongs to the top-tier category. Driving a friend's A8 felt incredibly exhilarating—its design is both grand and sporty. From the entry-level A3 to the top-tier A8, Audi's brand positioning is consistently high-end and luxurious, with the A8 exuding an opulent, premium aura like a luxury item, starting at over a million yuan. In terms of prestige, it rivals the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, though Audi leans more toward a tech-forward identity, evident in features like its Quattro all-wheel-drive system and intelligent driving assistance. Younger enthusiasts might gravitate toward the S8, with its thunderous V8 engine roar, but without compromising comfort. Cars in this class aren't just about transportation—they're status symbols. Choosing one reflects taste and substantial means, balancing performance and luxury, making it ideal for those pursuing a high-quality lifestyle. While minor issues like slightly higher fuel consumption may arise occasionally, overall reliability and service experiences remain top-notch.

The Audi equivalent to the S-Class is the A8, which is positioned at the very top of the luxury sedan segment. I believe this car sits at the pinnacle of luxury vehicles. Prices typically range from 800,000 to 2 million yuan, offering an exceptionally spacious interior and outstanding noise insulation. While it might be too extravagant for family use, it's first-class for business purposes. The Audi brand itself is high-end, competing with Mercedes-Benz and BMW, and the A8 is the most premium model in its lineup, significantly more upscale than the standard A4 or Q5. It's a highly respectable choice for long-distance driving or chauffeuring VIPs, with its luxury evident in details like leather seats and advanced climate control systems. If your budget allows, choosing the A8 won't disappoint, though daily maintenance costs are on the higher side.

Regarding the question about Audi's hierarchy, simply put, Audi's lineup includes series such as A, S, RS, etc. The A8 is the flagship luxury sedan, representing the highest tier. The so-called S-Class likely refers to the high-performance S8 variant. Starting at over a million in price, the A8 belongs to the top-tier executive car category, competing with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, offering a balance of comfort and handling. The brand as a whole is high-end, with innovations like matrix headlights and lightweight chassis. Its user base primarily consists of corporate executives or high-end clientele. The S8, equipped with sporty kits, is more aggressive, yet both maintain a luxury-grade status. When choosing a car, consider your needs: the A8 is classic and steady, while the S series is more dynamic. Audi's standing remains at the forefront among German brands.


