Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2016 Audi A8
With an overall Carivo score of 6.9/10, the 2016 Audi A8 earns a Good rating among the sedans we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Performance at 8.9/10, while Safety at 6.5/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional sedan — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability comes in at 7.4/10 in our assessment — above the middle of the pack for this class, though not flawless. Safety is a notable gap at 6.5/10 in our scoring — below what the best in segment deliver. Check the official NHTSA ratings for the trim you're considering before deciding.
The 8.9/10 performance score reflects a chassis and powertrain that punch above the segment norm — this is a sedan you choose partly for the drive itself. Technology scores 6.7/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $67,564–$80,423, 16 MPG, seating 5, the Audi A8 sits in the luxury tier of the sedan market. The 8.2/10 value score is the headline: relative to what it costs, this sedan delivers more than most of the class. At 10 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: There's a case for the 2016 Audi A8, but it needs the right buyer. Its technology and safety scores trail the class, and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2016 Audi A8 ranks #1118 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 15% of the segment. Its 6.9/10 overall score is 0.6 points below the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $67,564 starting price is about 144% above the segment's median of $27,664.
Across the A8 model years we've scored, the 2016 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Engaging driving dynamics with class-leading power and handling
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 16 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Premium price bracket — make sure the score justifies the outlay vs. segment alternatives
NHTSA Recalls — 2016 Audi A8 (4 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Q7, A6 and A7 vehicles, and 2015-2018 Audi A8 vehicles. The left and right fuel rails may leak fuel.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Audi A8 and S8 vehicles. The fuel supply line for the high pressure fuel pump may become porous and leak fuel.
Structure / Body / Hood 07/07/2020 · 20V397000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Audi S8 and A8 vehicles. The seal around the engine compartment may come loose and contact hot engine components.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2013-2017 A8, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, and 2014-2017 RS7 vehicles. The turbocharger oil supply strainer can become blocked, causing wear to the bearings due to lack of lubrication.
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Common Questions — 2016 Audi A8
Is the 2016 Audi A8 reliable?
We rate the 2016 Audi A8's reliability 7.4/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class. It has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2016 Audi A8 have?
4 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2016 Audi A8 worth buying?
It scores 6.9/10 overall, ranking #1118 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 15% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2016 Audi A8 cost?
The 2016 Audi A8 starts at $67,564 and ranges up to $80,423 across trims (MSRP when new). At 16 MPG, expect roughly $3,281/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Audi A8
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More Audi Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Audi models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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