The 2013 Audi A8, part of the D4 generation (2010-2017), is a full-size luxury sedan renowned for its sophisticated design and cutting-edge technology. Available in standard and long-wheelbase (A8 L) configurations, key trims included the 3.0T and 4.2 FSI, with the high-performance S8 arriving later. Its popularity stems from a blend of understated elegance, advanced Quattro all-wheel-drive, and a serene, feature-rich interior, making it a compelling alternative to more ostentatious luxury marques.
The Good
The 2013 Audi A8 excels with its refined performance from potent V8 engines, a remarkably comfortable and quiet ride, and a timeless, elegant design. Its advanced Quattro AWD offers confident handling, appealing to practicality. Emotionally, its luxurious cabin and technological sophistication provide a premium ownership experience.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses for the 2013 Audi A8 include its complex MMI infotainment system which can be a learning curve. Some owners report higher-than-average maintenance costs, particularly for certain electronic components and air suspension systems. Electrical gremlins can also occasionally surface.
2013 Audi A8: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.0-liter Supercharged V6
- 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8
- 4.0-liter Twin-Turbo V8 (S8 model) - Horsepower:
- 3.0T: 310 hp
- 4.2 FSI: 372 hp
- S8: 520 hp - Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 3.0T (AWD): 18 MPG city / 28 MPG highway
- 4.2 FSI (AWD): 16 MPG city / 26 MPG highway
- S8 (AWD): 15 MPG city / 26 MPG highway - 0-60 Times (Approximate):
- 3.0T: 5.7 seconds
- 4.2 FSI: 4.9 seconds
- S8: 3.7 seconds - Towing Capacity: Not Applicable (Luxury Sedan)
- Trim-Level Features:
A8 3.0T: Standard Quattro all-wheel drive, LED daytime running lights, power sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, 8-way power front seats with lumbar support, dual-zone automatic climate control, MMI navigation plus with 8-inch display, Bose surround sound system, Bluetooth connectivity, keyless ignition, front and rear parking sensors, rearview camera.
A8 4.2 FSI: Includes all 3.0T features plus a more powerful V8 engine, standard long wheelbase (A8 L), upgraded leather interior, ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, a more robust suspension system, and often additional standard luxury appointments.
A8 L (Long Wheelbase): Offers significantly increased rear legroom, often with available rear-seat comfort packages including power-adjustable rear seats, rear climate control, and entertainment systems.
S8: Built upon the A8 platform, the S8 adds a significantly more powerful twin-turbo V8 engine, sport-tuned adaptive air suspension, unique S8 styling cues, performance brakes, sport exhaust, and a more driver-focused interior with sport seats and performance trim.
2013 Audi A8 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2013 |
| Make | Audi |
| Model | A8 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Sedan All-Wheel Drive 4.0-T |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Large Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | NECKARSULM |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2164.99 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 2721.55 kg |
| Overall Height | 147.07 cm |
| Overall Length | 526.8 cm |
| Overall Width | 194.82 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 312.17 cm |
| Standard Seating | 4 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 6.3-L V12 DOHC 48V |
| Engine Size | 6.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $134,500 USD |
| Invoice Price | $125,087 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $895 USD |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2013 Audi A8 Have?
The 2013 Audi A8, while generally a robust vehicle, has some reported issues that owners should be aware of. One common concern revolves around the electronic parking brake, which has been known to malfunction, leading to the inability to release or engage the brake. Another area of attention is the MMI (Multi Media Interface) infotainment system; while advanced for its time, glitches, freezing, or failure to boot can occur, often requiring software updates or component replacement. Air suspension issues are also a point of concern for some owners, especially on higher mileage vehicles. Leaks, compressor failures, or faulty sensors can lead to a sagging ride height and costly repairs. The transfer case, particularly on earlier models of this generation, has been cited for potential problems leading to driveability issues or warning lights. While not a widespread recall for the 2013 model year specifically, Audi has addressed fuel pump issues in other models, so it's wise to ensure preventative maintenance is up-to-date. Some owners have also reported oil leaks, often from the valve covers or oil cooler seals, which are typical wear items on many German luxury cars but can be expensive to fix on an A8 due to labor costs. Electrical gremlins, such as interior light malfunctions or issues with power seats and windows, are also occasionally reported, often stemming from complex wiring harnesses and control modules. It's important to note that while these issues can arise, regular and diligent maintenance, ideally performed by a specialist familiar with Audi vehicles, can significantly mitigate many potential problems and contribute to long-term reliability.
How long will the 2013 Audi A8 last?
Based on owner data and typical luxury car usage patterns, the 2013 Audi A8 can reasonably be expected to provide reliable service for 150,000 to 200,000 miles, or approximately 10-12 years of ownership, assuming consistent and high-quality maintenance. Its long-term durability is significantly influenced by adherence to Audi's recommended service intervals, particularly concerning fluid changes (engine oil, transmission, differential) and timing belt or chain checks where applicable. While the core powertrain is generally robust, the primary weaknesses that emerge over time tend to be in the complex electronic systems and the air suspension. Owners who prioritize meticulous maintenance and address minor issues promptly will likely experience a more durable and enjoyable ownership experience, whereas neglect can accelerate wear and lead to more significant and costly repairs.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2013 Audi A8 was a technological showcase for its era, boasting an impressive array of built-in tech, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features. Standard technology included the MMI Navigation Plus system with an 8-inch retractable color display, a high-resolution interface controlled via a central rotary knob and accompanying buttons. This system integrated navigation, audio, climate control, and vehicle settings. Standard audio was a premium Bose surround sound system. Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming was also standard. Key driver-assistance features included front and rear parking sensors and a rearview camera. Optional features significantly enhanced the experience: Audi Parking System Plus offered a top-view camera system for enhanced spatial awareness. Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go functionality could automatically maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead and even brake to a complete stop and resume. Lane Assist helped keep the vehicle centered in its lane, and Night Vision Assistant provided an infrared view of the road ahead on the MMI display. For entertainment, an optional Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System offered unparalleled audio fidelity. Rear-seat entertainment packages with individual screens were also available on A8 L models. In terms of safety, the 2013 A8 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of airbags (front, side, curtain), ABS, stability control, and traction control. While specific crash-test ratings for the 2013 model year are not as readily available as for newer vehicles, the A8 typically performed well in its class, with Audi's strong safety engineering and robust body structure contributing to excellent occupant protection.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2013 Audi A8 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2013 Audi A8 had a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) typically in the mid-$70,000s for the 3.0T model, climbing into the high $80,000s and beyond for the 4.2 FSI and long-wheelbase A8 L variants, with the high-performance S8 exceeding $100,000. As of late 2023/early 2024, used 2013 Audi A8 models can be found ranging from approximately $12,000 to $25,000, depending heavily on mileage, condition, trim level, and options. Depreciation is significant, as is typical for luxury vehicles, with the largest drop occurring in the first few years. Factors affecting resale value include maintenance history (crucial for luxury cars), the presence of desirable optional packages (like advanced tech or comfort features), overall condition, and mileage. A well-maintained A8 with lower mileage will command a premium over a neglected example.
2013 Audi A8 Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2013 Audi A8 is generally considered costly. Insurance premiums will be higher than for mainstream vehicles due to its luxury status, repair costs, and replacement parts. Fuel costs will depend on the engine choice and driving habits, but V6 and V8 engines in this class are not inherently economical, especially in city driving. Maintenance, including regular oil changes, filter replacements, and specialized fluid services, will be more expensive than average. Repair costs for the A8 can be substantial, particularly for complex systems like the MMI, air suspension, or Quattro drivetrain. Therefore, the 2013 Audi A8 is not an economical vehicle to own and operate long-term; it demands a significant budget for ongoing expenses.
2013 Audi A8 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline (Required)
Fuel Capacity
90.09 liters
City Mileage
5.53 km/l
Highway Mileage
8.93 km/l
2013 Audi A8 Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2013 Audi A8 Recalls & Defects
Visibility:sun/Moon Roof Assembly
Recall date
2013-09-23
Recall no.
13v448000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2013-2014 Audi A8 and S8 Vehicles Equipped With A Standard Sunroof, Manufactured March 12, 2013, Through July 15, 2013. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With A Standard Sunroof Glass Panel That MAY Shatter.
Consequence
Should THE Sunroof's Glass Break While THE Vehicle IS IN Use, THE Falling Glass Could Injure THE Driver or Passengers. IT Could Also Distract THE Driver, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Sunroof Glass Panel, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 21, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Audi OF America AT 1-800-822-2834. Volkwagen's Number FOR This Campaign IS 60b6/1l.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine
Recall date
2016-08-24
Recall no.
16v619000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2013 Audi A8 Vehicles Manufactured MAY 15, 2010, TO MAY 14, 2012. THE Affected Vehicles Have A Coolant Valve That MAY Leak, Allowing Coolant TO Enter THE Engine Control Module Causing A Loss OF Power or THE Engine TO Stall.
Consequence
A Vehicle Stall Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Audi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Coolant Valve and Inspect FOR Coolant That HAS Leaked Through THE Electrical Connector, Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin October 19, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date
2018-06-25
Recall no.
18v430000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2015 Audi S8 and A8 Vehicles. THE Fuel Supply Line FOR THE High Pressure Fuel Pump MAY Become Porous Over Time, Resulting IN A Fuel Leak.
Consequence
A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Audi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Line, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 20, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 20av.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date
2019-01-28
Recall no.
19v057000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2016 Audi A8 and S8 Vehicles. THE Fuel Supply Line FOR THE High Pressure Fuel Pump MAY Become Porous and Leak Fuel.
Consequence
Leaking Fuel, IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, Increases THE Risk OF Fire.
Remedy
Audi HAS Notified Owners, and Dealers Will Install A Fuel Pressure Damper, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 21, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 20bm.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure:body:hood
Recall date
2020-07-07
Recall no.
20v397000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2018 Audi S8 and A8 Vehicles. THE Seal Around THE Engine Compartment MAY Come Loose and Contact HOT Engine Components.
Consequence
IF THE Seal Contacts HOT Engine Components, There Could BE AN Increased Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Audi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install A Retaining Plate TO Prevent THE Engine Compartment Seal From Loosening. THE Recall Began September 4, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 51g6.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine:gasoline:turbo/Supercharger
Recall date
2022-03-23
Recall no.
22v178000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Audi) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2017 A8, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, and 2014-2017 RS7 Vehicles. THE Turbocharger OIL Supply Strainer CAN Become Blocked, Causing Wear TO THE Bearings DUE TO Lack OF Lubrication.
Consequence
Worn Bearings CAN Cause THE Turbine Wheel TO Contact THE Turbocharger Housing or Cause THE Shaft TO Break, Causing AN Engine Stall and Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE OIL Strainer and Perform AN OIL Change, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed August 4, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Audi's Number FOR This Recall IS 21h7.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
2013 Audi A8 Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
144 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2013 Audi A8 Insurance
Insurance for a 2013 Audi A8 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2013 Audi A8 Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2013 Audi A8 competed in a segment dominated by esteemed rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and Lexus LS. In terms of performance, the A8's 3.0T V6 offered a competent entry point, while the 4.2 V8 and the S8 variant provided more exhilarating power. The Mercedes S-Class often led in outright luxury and ride refinement, with a broad range of powerful engines. The BMW 7 Series typically offered a more engaging driving experience and a potent lineup of inline-six, V8, and V12 engines. The Lexus LS was renowned for its exceptional reliability, smooth ride, and high-quality interior, though it sometimes lagged in cutting-edge technology compared to its German counterparts. Features-wise, the 2013 A8 was well-equipped with Audi's signature MMI system, Quattro AWD, and advanced optional driver aids, matching or exceeding many rivals. Reliability is where the A8 historically faced more scrutiny than the Lexus LS, which is often considered the benchmark for dependability in this segment. The S-Class and 7 Series also had their own sets of potential electronic and mechanical issues, though generally reliable when well-maintained. Price-wise, the A8 offered a strong value proposition, often undercutting comparable S-Class and 7 Series models when new, and this trend continues in the used market.
Recommendations:
- Similar Alternatives: The 2013 BMW 7 Series (especially the 740i or 750i) offers a comparable blend of performance, technology, and luxury, though potentially with a slightly sportier feel. The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (S550) is the ultimate in luxury and comfort, though likely at a higher price point both new and used, and potentially with more complex systems.
- Better Alternatives (for reliability): If long-term reliability is paramount, the 2013 Lexus LS 460 is the standout choice. It delivers a supremely comfortable ride, a bulletproof powertrain, and a luxurious interior, though it might feel less technologically advanced than the Audi.
- For performance enthusiasts: The 2013 Audi S8 itself is a formidable performance sedan, but if absolute blistering pace is the goal, the BMW M5 or Mercedes-AMG S63 might be considered, though they are significantly more focused on sport than pure luxury.
Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Audi A8 a Good Sedan?
The 2013 Audi A8 is ideal for discerning buyers seeking a sophisticated, understated luxury sedan that offers a comfortable ride, advanced technology, and excellent all-weather capability thanks to its standard Quattro all-wheel drive. It's a strong contender for those who appreciate refined German engineering and a less ostentatious presence than some competitors. It is worth buying, primarily on the used market, as its significant depreciation makes it an attainable luxury. Specific trims to consider would be the 3.0T for a balance of performance and efficiency, or the 4.2 FSI for increased power and a more opulent feel. The A8 L is best for those prioritizing rear-seat passenger comfort. Buying a well-maintained example with a thorough service history is crucial to mitigate potential high repair costs. It is less ideal for budget-conscious buyers or those seeking absolute rock-bottom reliability without the willingness to invest in proper maintenance.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.