By Leow Ju-Len

JULY 15th saw the launch of the Audi A8 3.0, which makes the Audi’s flagship newly available with a 220 horsepower V6 engine, and front wheel drive. The A8 3.0 joins the A8 L 4.2 quattro model in importer Premium Automobiles’ line-up, and is available in both a standard size and a long-wheelbase version, stretched by 13cm for a roomier interior.

This adds an entry-level variant to Audi’s flagship A8 range, which should help the model find more buyers. Locally, the bulk of sales for the flagship models of luxury brands comes from versions with engines 3.0-litres in size and smaller.

For example, figures from the Motors Traders Association (MTA) show that over three out of five Mercedes S-Class models sold here are the 2.8-litre S 280 and S 280L variants. The entry-level BMW 730i accounts for around two-thirds of 7 Series sales, while the 3.0-litre XJ6 model makes up three-quarters of Jaguar’s flagship sales.

Interestingly, the A8 3.0 had been quietly on sale before the official launch, and MTA figures show that of the eight A8s sold up to June, five were the 3.0 model.

Premium Automobiles declined to reveal sales figures for the A8 3.0 on the launch night, but a source did say that “some” cars were sold on the evening itself. The A8 3.0-litre was priced at $289,000 with COE at its unveiling ($86,000 less than the A8 L 4.2 quattro), with the long-wheelbase version available for $10,000 more.

At a Glance
The Audi A8 range has been expanded with the entry of a 3.0-litre V6 model
Two variants are on offer: a standard length car, and the A8 L 3.0, which is 13cm longer
The A8 3.0 is priced at $289,000 with COE, with the A8 L 3.0 going for $299,000