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Audi Gets a Powerful New Flagship

Audi AG took the wraps off its A8L 6.0 quattro, the auto maker's new flagship. The sedan features a 6L 12-cyl. engine and a new front fascia that becomes a central styling cue for future Audis. The A8L 6.0 features corporate parent Volkswagen AG's W12 engine, which produces 450 hp and 428 lb.-ft. of torque. More than 95% of the engine's peak torque is available between 2,300-5,300 rpm. It's new front

Audi AG took the wraps off its A8L 6.0 quattro, the auto maker's new flagship.

The sedan features a 6L 12-cyl. engine and a new front fascia that becomes a central styling cue for future Audis.

The A8L 6.0 features corporate parent Volkswagen AG's W12 engine, which produces 450 hp and 428 lb.-ft. of torque. More than 95% of the engine's peak torque is available between 2,300-5,300 rpm.

It's new front fascia is distinguished by the new single-frame grille design. The rest of the vehicle follows the A8 line, with its luxurious interior, clear headlamp covers and sleek aerodynamic design.

Audi plans to launch the A8L 6.0 in the German market in February. U.S. customers will have to wait until the end of the year to take delivery.

An abundance of European orders is delaying the U.S. launch.

As to whether the new A8L might steal some sales from VW's new Phaeton luxury sedan, VW Chairman Bernd Pischetsrieder tells Ward's he isn't worried.

“The segment the Audi A8 is sold in is more the type of customers who are actively driving themselves, while the Phaeton is more for customers… who would rather be driven,” he says.

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