Audi A8 Hybrid To Debut In 2012 With Four Cylinder Engine

Audi is getting ready to launch an A8 Hybrid with a four-cylinder engine that will compete with the upcoming Mercedes-Benz S250 CDI, which uses a 4-cylinder diesel motor, and the S400 Hybrid.

With a front-drive only V6 version of the A8 already on sale, the 4-cylinder hybrid model is a naturally progression for that brand, while still maintaining the premium positioning that luxury hybrids enjoy.

Interestingly, BMW denied that they were interested in introducing an engine smaller than 6 cylinders in their 7-Series flagship. “I like selling 7-series cars with six- and eight- cylinders,”BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer said  at the Paris Motor Show. “What we need to offer with these cars in the future is electrification.”

[Source: Automotive News]