2015 Audi A8 Refreshed, Key Feature Skips US

Audi unveiled its refreshed A8 flagship sedan today with a host of updated technologies ahead of its in-person Frankfurt Motor Show debut.

Unfortunately, one of the most interesting changes to the car will be kept out of U.S. models because of safety regulations related to high-beam and low-beam headlights. Called “MatrixBeam” headlights, the new lamps use 25 LEDs that can be individually lit or dimmed depending on what the driver needs. Paired with the car’s navigation system, the lights can also adapt to corners and hills automatically.

Other than having the sexiest eyes of any car, Audi is offering buyers a few other upgrades. Trunk access is supposed to be easier, and the A8 L model grows by 5.12 inches in both length and wheelbase. Normal models remain the same size.

Mild revisions have also been made to the front fascia with a slightly more defined hood. The grille and front bumper also look more sculpted.

Engine options remain unchanged with a supercharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder base motor, twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 and a 6.3-liter W12 engine in the range-topping A8 L. Of course, there’s also the 3.0-liter turbo diesel motor to consider too. Output, on the other hand, is slightly different. The supercharged six cylinder makes 310 hp, down from its previous 328, while the V8 rises from 414 to 435 hp. The 3.0-liter diesel also gets a power bump from 247 hp to 258.

Finally, Audi is introducing new interior options to the A8 L including new safety technology and trim. New active lane assistance and parking systems are part of that, and the night vision system can now recognize larger animals and humans. The head-up display has also been revised.

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