Full-size flagship sedans from Audi revolve around a unibody structure derived from aluminum in a complex system designed to increase rigidity and pare weight. Add sheets of aluminum for roof, side panels, hood and trunk, and the resultant car in sedan shape weighs about 40 percent less than a steel-based equivalent, but it's also 40 percent more stiff and rigid, which sparks its athletic character. The series for 2003 includes regular-length A8 and extended-wheelbase A8L motivated by a powerful V8 engine and connected to the quattro system. A sporty treatment called S8 carries the 4.2-liter V8 for 360 hp. In the deluxe cabin, twin bucket flank a functional console, and a three-person rear bench has twin sculptured spaces plus impressive legroom. Leather covers seats and glossy burled walnut dresses the dash, console and doors. For A8, a new Premium Package installs heated seats and a heated steering wheel, with Audi's navigation system in the dash, a tire pressure monitor aboard, plus Parktronic parking aid, xenon high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps and 17-inch forged alloy wheels. A new Limited Edition Package paints the body in the new color of Avus Silver with cabin shaded to Caramel, Platinum or Burgundy.