Audi builds the one-off six-door A8 L Extended

Various online reports suggest that the unique A8 L Extended has been created for the Norwegian Royal Family. Audi, discretely, is merely saying “a European customer” commissioned it.

Whoever the buyer is, they're getting a stretched version of the A8 L which gains an extra pair of doors and a third row of seats. The result measures 6.36 metres (20’ 10”) from bumper to bumper and weighs 2,418 kg (5,331 lbs).

Audi A8 L Extended (2016) Front Side

The transformation to a six-door model didn't just involve chopping a car in half then welding in another bodywork section. Rather, the side sills and transmission tunnel are bespoke one-piece aluminium extrusions. Together with additional roof bracing and a double rear bulkhead, they almost compensate for any torsional rigidity lost during the conversion.

Included in the specification are a large glass roof panel, elegant fifteen-spoke 19” wheels, upgraded brakes borrowed from the S8, Valcona leather upholstery and a cool box.

Power is provided by a 306 bhp (228 kW / 310 PS) 3.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine that's combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a permanent all-wheel drive system. Despite the A8 L Extended's increased bulk, performance remains brisk: the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint takes 7.1 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h).

Audi A8 L Extended (2016) Rear SeatsAudi A8 L Extended (2016) Side

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Audi reveals the all-new 2016 Q7

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