Controls and Connectivity

The MMI touch response operating concept of the new Audi S8** is fully digital. The driver controls almost all functions via two large screens. A second operating logic is the natural-language voice control, which makes the S8** an intelligent dialog partner. The driver can use the view button on the multifunction steering wheel to switch between two views in the Audi virtual cockpit: While the tachometer and speedometer are displayed as large dial-type gages in driving mode, the map is the center of attention in infotainment mode. Both views have S-specific red graphical details. An S-performance layout for the Audi virtual cockpit where the central focus is the rev counter, displayed as a graph, and the output and torque are shown as percentages can also be selected in the MMI. When the large navigation map is shown, the torque and speed are displayed as small bar graphs. In addition, there is an optional head-up display that projects important information onto the windshield.

State of the art: Infotainment, Audi connect and new Car-2-X services

The high-end media center in the new S8** is no less than the top system MMI Navigation plus, with a wide range of functions from Audi connect – including Car-2-X services that use the swarm intelligence of the Audi fleet. New to the offering are on-street parking and traffic light information, which Audi is offering for selected European cities for the first time: The car receives information from the traffic light central computer via a server so that the driver can choose their speed to match the next green light. The Audi virtual cockpit displays a personal speed recommendation as well as the remaining time to the next green light whenever the driver is waiting at a red traffic light. As a result, the system promotes an anticipatory driving style and aids the flow of traffic.

The myAudi app connects the car with the customer’s smartphone – and thus with their everyday life. The customer can conveniently send navigation destinations to the car’s MMI Navigation plus system from their couch. Real-time information concerning the vehicle, such as the fuel level, range and service dates, can also be called up at any time. The auxiliary heating and climate control can be remotely controlled, too, as well as the opening and closing of the vehicle’s doors.

In addition, the S8** can be equipped with Amazon’s Alexa voice service upon request. The digital assistant is fully integrated into the car’s MMI operating system – no smartphone is necessary. With Alexa on board, the customer can use a host of functions and services that their Alexa-enabled end devices allow them to at home – to obtain information services (news, weather, sport), order groceries, stream music or control their smart home, for example. 

The Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System delivers an acoustic experience: Now the rear seats also benefit from its fascinating 3D sound. Thanks to the Audi phone box and voice-over-LTE function, even telephony in the S8** reaches a new level – both in terms of operation and the quality of the sound and connection. The infotainment program is rounded off by features such as a TV tuner with “CI+” module, Digital Audio Broadcasting or the Audi smartphone interface – this brings Android Auto and wirelessly Apple Car Play on board.

* Fuel/power consumption and CO₂ emission figures given in ranges depend on the tires/wheels used as well as the selected equipment
** The collective fuel consumption values of all models named and available on the German market can be found in the list provided at the end of this press information.

All terms marked in the text are explained in detail in the technology lexicon at www.audi-mediacenter.com/en/technology-lexicon.

The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.