What is the difference between Audi A8 and A8L?
3 Answers
Audi A8 and Audi A8L have no significant differences, where 'L' stands for Long-wheelbase. Differences: The A8 is the standard wheelbase model for international markets, while the A8L is a special model tailored for the Chinese market, featuring a slightly longer wheelbase and more spacious interior to meet local consumers' demands for car practicality. Sales Regions: The A8 primarily targets European countries, whereas the A8L is marketed in regions like the United States and China. Audi is a luxury car brand under Volkswagen Group's subsidiary Audi AG, headquartered in Ingolstadt, Germany, with branches in many countries including China. Its main models include A1, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, Q1, Q2, Q3, Q5, Q7, Q8, TT, R8, as well as the S and RS performance series.
I used to drive an Audi A8, and later switched to the A8L. The most noticeable difference is the body length. The A8L has its rear doors extended by about 13 centimeters, making the rear seating area as spacious as a first-class cabin on a plane. Even my friend, who is 1.9 meters tall, can sit without his knees touching the front seatbacks. However, the longer body makes parking a bit more challenging, requiring multiple adjustments in tight parking spaces like those in shopping malls. The fuel consumption is also slightly higher—my A8 averaged around 11 liters per 100 km in the city, while the A8L consumes about 13 liters. It costs over 100,000 RMB more, but the executives sitting in the back say it's worth it, especially with optional features like rear folding tables and refrigerators.
When it comes to these two Audi models, the A8 is the standard version while the A8L is the extended version, with the most significant changes in the rear seats. From my personal experience, the regular A8 feels a bit cramped for three people in the back, with shoulders touching, whereas the A8L is like a small living room—you can even cross your legs comfortably. However, the increased weight affects handling; last time on the highway during a sharp turn, the A8L felt like it was swaying more noticeably, almost like a boat. The rear seat configurations are also upgraded, with features like massage seats and footrests only available in the high-end A8L models, making long drives especially relaxing.
