What's all this about?

If you know German car makers, you know that flagship saloons are a road map for future models. So when the covers were pulled off the new Audi A8, we got a glimpse into how the next generation of Ingolstadt cars will look.

What's new about the styling?

Let's be honest, you could mistake the new A8 for a thoroughly facelifted model. All of the usual Audi styling cues are there; the trapezoidal single-frame grille is larger and more angular, while the headlights are now a more integrated feature of the front end, acting as an extension to the grille.

The car is 13mm taller than its predecessor, but in a clever piece of design that lowers the shoulderline of the car, it appears to sit lower on the road than the measuring tape would suggest. The C-pillars have been stretched back and thinned out to give the car a more coupe-like roofline, and as with so many of Audi's current model, the bodywork is strewn with razor thin creases to give the A8 a sharp look.

How about the interior?

It's inside the cabin that the greater step change in design takes place. Audi has almost entirely eliminated buttons from the dashboard. It now features two large high-definition colour touchscreens. The larger top screen measures 10.1 inches and carries all of the infotainment system, navigation and driving-related information.

Below this, in the lower section of the centre console, is a smaller 8.6-inch screen. This is used for secondary systems like the ventilation controls. Both screens are touch sensitive and feature haptic feedback. Audi claims this reduces the risk of selecting the wrong item on the screen when the car is moving, helping you to 'feel' the button. There are some buttons on the centre console, namely the AI button, which enables the autonomous driving functions.

The driver's position includes a 12.3-inch colour instrument display that is capable of being configured in numerous ways, and there is also a head-up display. Even the multifunction steering wheel is all-new, and feels much thinner in hand, with four spokes featuring larger cut-out areas.

Hang on, did you say autonomous driving?

Yes, the A8 will be capable of what is referred to as 'Level 3' autonomy, which means there is no need for the driver to use their hands, feet or sight when on the move. However, although this technology has been developed, currently it is not permitted for use under the legislation. Audi hopes that these rules will soon change to allow the use of the system.

When it is switched on, its features will allow for the car to drive and steer itself in motorway traffic at speeds of up to 40mph. It does this through a series of highly accurate sensors, cameras and a front-mounted laser scanner. When the car requires the driver to retake control, an audible warning will sound to prompt them to get ready to resume driving.

What about the engine choices?

All of the A8 range will be equipped with hybrid powertrains, irrespective of the engine. Most will use a system that Audi refers to as a Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV), which places a small lithium-ion battery in the rear of the car that recharges as the car drives like a regular hybrid. When the car is cruising, it can switch off the combustion engine and coast along for periods of up to 40 seconds under the power of the onboard battery. This 48-volt system supplies power for the ancillary systems but doesn't propel the car. Think of it as an extended start-stop system on the move. Redesigned transmissions allow for a seamless reintegration of the combustion engine at speed.

The engines will include a 286hp 3.0-litre diesel or 340hp 3.0-litre petrol, both in turbocharged V6 configurations, initially. Soon after launch, Audi will introduce larger capacity 4.0-litre petrol and diesel V8s with 460- and 435hp respectively. Capping off the range will be the 585hp W12 petrol engine. All will feature all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Any other cool gadgets?

Garage Pilot will enable owners to remotely park their A8 into a space via a smartphone app. This system appears to be more advanced than that offered by BMW in the 5 and 7 Series models, and should prove useful for those with tight garage spaces, or in case a less considerate driver parks too close for you to open your door.

The A8 will offer active suspension that sees electric motors on each wheel control the damping. Forward-facing cameras read the road surface at a refresh rate of 18 times a second and link into the system to highlight any approaching bumps. This suspension enables the car to react in time so as to minimise the discomfort to passengers. It can also work when cornering to reduce body roll.

When does it come out?

Audi says that the new A8 will begin to appear in showrooms in November, with first customer deliveries expected to begin soon after.