Kyle's Corner (FYI) Big Audi A8 to Get 44 Mpg

Audi (part of the Volkswagen Group) will release the 2012 A8 hybrid. The large A8 will reportedly get 44 mpg. The hybrid is will have the performance of a six-cylinder but obtain the fuel economy of a four-cylinder.

The A8 will have a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine providing 211 hp and 258 ft. lb. of torque and a disc-shaped electric motor adding 54 hp and 155 ft. lb. of torque. The combined gas/electric total is 245 hp and 345 ft. lb. of twist (And although these numbers do not add up, they are what Audi claims!).

The electric motor is located between the engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission. Energy for the electric motor is stored in a lithium-ion battery located in the trunk. The A8 reportedly can be driven up to 62 miles on all-electric power. The car's 0-60 mph time is in 7.7 seconds.

The A8 hybrid can be driven in three modes. 'EV' provides all-electric propulsion. 'D' is a blend of both the engine and electric motor. 'S' is meant for sporty acceleration.

The A8 hybrid will only be offered in front-wheel drive rather than the automaker's customary all-wheel drive. To set it apart from the regular Audi A8, the hybrid will have turbine style 18 or 19-inch wheels, Arctic Silver paint, LED headlights, and numerous hybrid badges.

The Audi A8 hybrid might not even be sold in the U.S. However, Audi will provide a diesel A8 for the U.S.

Audi will announce the price of the A8 hybrid at a later date. We can assume that it will be an expensive car!

I think it would be interesting if Audi offered an A8 turbo diesel hybrid for the U.S. market. The large Audi would likely get 54 mpg.

Kyle Busch is the author of "Drive the Best for the Price: How to Buy a Used Automobile, Sport-Utility Vehicle, or Minivan and Save Money." He welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site: www.cartown1.com. Follow Kyle on Facebook and Twitter.