This luxury sedan,the Audi A8,is the flagship of Audi?s lineup and has been available since 1994. For the 2010 model year,the A8 is offered in two trim levels,both with a V8 engine and adaptive air suspension. The cabin features a slightly revised dashboard that the automaker says is more driver-friendly.

The available trim levels are standard and L (for long wheelbase). The standard trim level includes 18-inch alloy wheels,xenon headlights,sunroof,Audi?s proprietary Multi Media Interface (MMI) system,navigation,leather upholstery,heated front and rear seats,dual-zone climate control,keyless ignition and entry,a 12-speaker Bose audio system,Bluetooth connectivity,and 16-way power front seats.

The L trim,with its longer wheelbase,provides 42 inches of rear-seat legroom. In addition,it features 19-inch wheels (with 20-inch wheels optional),enhanced climate control,contrasting stitching and piping on the upholstery,ventilated and massaging front seats,and lumbar adjustment for all passengers. A solar-powered venting sunroof is optional. Also available is upgraded leather trim,an upgraded Bang & Olufsen audiophile system,and a package of technology options that includes adaptive cruise control,lane departure warning,and blind spot warning.

Audi has eliminated the optional 12-cylinder engine on the A8 for 2010. Both the standard and the L trims come with a 350-hp,4.2-liter V8 engine,as well as a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission that works with the Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Both the standard and the L trim deliver 16 mpg in the city,23 mpg highway,and 18 mpg combined,according to EPA estimates.

Standard safety features include antilock brakes,airbags in front and rear seating positions and full length curtains on the side windows,active front headrests,and full stability and traction control

On introduction,base prices for the 2010 Audi A8 started around $75,000.