2004 Audi A8

More aluminum and more engine power combine in the redesigned 2004 Audi A8 to deliver a full-size luxury sedan that handles more like a sports car, with enough energy and kick to thrill the sports car enthusiast hiding inside the businessperson. Add to that the powerful quattro all-wheel drive, and you're ready to tackle any condition the elements throw at you, and to do it all in elegant style.

The 2004 A8 comes in only one trim in the U.S., the A8L, which is two inches longer than last year.  On the outside, you'll hardly notice a difference beyond a more gently sloping roofline.  Underneath, however, more aluminum has been added to increase the car's rigidity, meaning improved handling and a crisper driving experience.  A new 4.2 V8 engine gets a surge to 330-hp and 317 lb-ft of torque.  This is paired with a new 6-speed Tiptronic transmission.  Particularly unique in the 2004 A8 is an air suspension system with four driver-controlled settings that vary according to the road conditions.  They range from Comfort (for standard highway driving) to the sporty Dynamic, which lowers the ride height, and Lift, which raises the height for rougher roads.  The Automatic setting takes the best of all three for optimal performance.  In 2004, the Audi A8 sports 10 airbags.

Inside, the longer wheelbase adds even more rear legroom.  Audi prides itself on offering the utmost in luxury, and the 2004 A8 only adds to the already abundant features with 16-way adjustable leather seats, sunshades, heated seats and steering wheel, seat massager option, and power lumbar support for both front and rear passengers. All that's missing is HDTV and a neverending cooler of refreshing beverages.  A new Multi Media Interface System centralizes controls in one circular display.  Though some find it helpful, others say it causes more distraction than convenience.

The 2004 A8 still handles like a dream, much more like a smaller sedan than its Escalade-sized body would suggest.  Owners say it is quiet and smooth for maximum comfort, yet the engine is throaty and alive, and with the sports suspension, feels much more propulsive.  A spacious backseat and trunk and comfortable seats, plus good ergonomics, ensure a plush ride.  The quattro feature turns the A8 into a stylish SUV.  As always, poor customer service is a major complaint from Audi owners.  Problems with the electronic system and general unreliability disappoint as well.  Rear visibility is blocked due to the rear headrests.  While some find navigation system easy to use, others feel it is confusing.