Audi confirmed the launch of its newly redesigned A8 luxury sedan in America at this year’s Detroit Motor Show. The new 2015 Audi A8 and S8 will arrive in the U.S. in the summer of 2014, boasting revised front and rear-end design, and a whole host of advanced technology features.  

The 2015 model looks substantially different that the one that went before it, what with the new LED headlights, hood, Audi Singleframe grille, wider bumpers and revised splitter design. It also gets new tail lamp and trapezoidal tailpipe design. New 20-inch wheels and exterior colors are also available.

Audi A8 cannot compete in terms of technology and luxury with the new Mercedes S-Class. Nothing can, come to think of it. But the A8 is pretty well-equipped, featuring Audi MMI navigation plus system that includes Google Earth mapping, Google Voice local search functionality and a Wi-Fi hotspot for up to eight devices. In terms of safety, you get Active lane assist, Secondary collision assist, Night vision assistant, Head-up display, and Audi park assist – a comprehensive list by any standards.

2015 Audi A8 also benefits from upgrades in the powertrain department. The 4.0 liter turbo V8 now comes with 435 horsepower instead of 420, and the W12 6.3 liter engine now comes with Cylinder On Demand technology, making it a tiny bit more economical.

As for the 2015 S8, the high-performance version of the A8, it is distinguishable from the normal models by the virtue of larger air intakes in the lower bumper and reduced use of chrome accents, plus wider oval quad tailpipes, rear diffusor and side sills. The car also makes use of carbon fiber trims teamed with Vermont brown leather inside the cabin.