2012 Audi A8 Hybrid: details, photos and specs

The production version of Audi’s A8 Hybrid has finally been unveiled. It actually didn’t change much from the concept shown last year at the Geneva Motor Show. The design was kept and the only aesthetic change is the new set of smaller 18-inch wheels that replaced the concept’s big 21-inch wheels. The luxury four-door will start selling next year. Powering the new A8 Hybrid is a 2.0-liter turbocharged TFSI engine that delivers 211HP and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque.

It’s believed that Audi’s choice to use a petrol engine rather than a diesel is intended to suit the U.S. market. This is the same thing that happened to BMW’s i8, which had the same change in order to get a more global appeal. This engine is mated to an electric motor that produces 40 kW and 210 Nm (154.89 lb-ft) of torque.

Audi’s engineers found out that a combined output can offer 245hp. The A8 Hybrid can accelerate to 100 km/h (62mph) in just 7.7 seconds and it can reach a top speed of 235 km/h (146 mph). With regards to the European cycle, its consumption rating is at 6.4 liters per 100 km (36.8mpg US) while its CO2 emissions level is at 148 grams per kilometer.[via : 4wheelsnews]

Photo : 2012 Audi A8 Hybrid Coming soon