Serving as the flagship sedan in Audi’s lineup, the 2020 A8 model range expands this year, adding a new twin-turbocharged, V8-powered variant as well as a plug-in hybrid.

Lane-departure warning is now standard, and new options include a Merino Gray Audi Design Collection interior upgrade, a Black Optic package, a Sport Style package, and a Sport Plus package equipping the car with a new dynamic all-wheel steering system. Audi also debuts HD Matrix-design LED headlights with Audi Laser Light technology for the 2020 model year.

Every 2020 Audi A8 has an extended-length body style, and unlike other Audis, the A8 comes in a single level of standard specification. The 55 TFSI is the most affordable version of the car, equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine making 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It’s also the most efficient A8, EPA-rated to get 17 mpg in the city, 26 on the highway, and 21 in combined driving.

New for 2020, the A8 60 TFSI features a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine whipping up 453 hp and 487 lb-ft. Audi says it accelerates the big luxury sedan to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, while the EPA predicts fuel economy amounting to 15 mpg in the city, 23 highway, and 18 combined.

Both the V6 and V8 employ Audi’s Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technology, which is designed to improve overall efficiency. They also employ an 8-speed automatic transmission, and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) system is standard.

Another new version, the 2020 Audi A8 60 TFSI e, is a plug-in hybrid with Hybrid, Electric, and Hold driving modes. Hold allows a driver to preserve the electric driving range for specific use at a time of his or her choosing. This powertrain uses a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, an electric motor integrated with the 8-speed automatic transmission, and a 14.1kWh lithium-ion battery to generate a total of 443 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Electric range and EPA mileage estimates will be finalized closer to the car’s arrival.

Driving enthusiasts will want to check out the new 2020 Audi S8, which is covered as a separate model.

All Audi A8s reflect the clean, technical design language for which the brand is known, complete with the oversize grille favored in some of the automaker’s global markets. High-definition Matrix-design LED headlights, animated rear OLED lighting, and dynamic turn signals help the A8 to stand out, as well as wheel designs ranging up to 21 inches in diameter. This year, new Black Optic and Sport Style packages lend the A8 extra visual attitude.

Open any door and a minimalistic high-tech cabin awaits, featuring supple leather and quality materials. Comfort is virtually guaranteed thanks to the available heated, ventilated, and massaging 22-way power front seats. If you’re planning to be driven, the optional Executive Package includes a right rear relaxation seat with foot massage.

Audi’s Multi-media Interface (MMI) Touch Response technology dominates the dashboard. Replacing conventional controls, this dual-screen setup works similar to a modern smartphone or tablet computer and features both natural voice recognition and handwriting recognition technologies. A thundering 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3D premium surround sound system fills the car with lush music, and backseat occupants can enjoy available rear infotainment controls as well as individual 10.1-inch tablet-style entertainment screens.

An industry-first application, a LIDAR laser scanner determines how the A8’s adaptive driving assistance systems (ADAS) will operate and respond to changing traffic conditions. Safety technology highlights include Pre-sense 360, which prepares the A8 and its occupants for imminent frontal-, rear-, and side-impact collisions.

Notably, Audi Adaptive Cruise Assist includes a variety of ADAS, but in the U.S. market, the car does not include Traffic Jam Pilot, which would give the A8 true Level 3 semi-autonomous driving capability. Audi doesn’t offer the system here due to legal and infrastructure issues. Plus, viral videos of Tesla Autopilot users sleeping on the job likely demonstrates to Audi that Americans aren't ready for the responsibility.

The newest and freshest flagship luxury sedan on the market, the 2020 Audi A8 competes head-to-head with the BMW 7 Series, Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and Porsche Panamera. In this crowd, it’s a sensible and high-tech choice for people who prefer substance over style. More affordable alternatives include the Cadillac CT6 and Genesis G90.