Audi has revealed the hybrid Audi A8 that will make production in early 2012, with first UK deliveries slated for later in that year.
Power comes courtesy of a 208bhp 2.0-litre TFSI engine and a 45bhp electric motor powered by a lithium ion battery pack.
See pics of the new Audi A8 hybrid
Combined, both units produce 242bhp, with 354lb ft of torque available between 1,500 and 4,200rpm, giving the luxury hybrid a 0-62mph of 7.7sec, with top speed achieved at 146mph.
The aluminium-bodied hybrid will return “in excess” of 44mpg according to Audi, with CO2 emissions of less than 148g/km. A maximum of 1.86 miles is achievable on electric power alone when driven at a constant 37mph.
Read more about the car from the Geneva motor show
Three driving modes are available – EV, which gives priority to electric drive, D, which “efficiently” controls both power sources and S for optimal acceleration.
The A8 hybrid also offers five operating states: with the TFSI engine alone, electric drive only or in hybrid mode; recuperation and boosting are also possible. Two displays show the driver all operating modes in detail.
Externally, the frugal new A8 features 18-inch or optional 19-inch ten-spoke alloys, Arctic Silver paint, hybrid badges and LED headlights. Inside, standard equipment includes three-zone automatic air conditioning and a Bose sound system.
Audi has given no indication on pricing as yet, but a 10 per cent premium over the entry-level car – the £56,295 3.0-litre TFSI quattro SE – should be expected at approximately £62,000.
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