Audi S8 Plus gets retailored suit, 605 horsepower (pictures)

The S8's 4-liter turbocharged V-8 now has up to 605 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque in Plus spec, a big increase over the current model's 520 hp and 480 lb-ft.

Only the larger, heavier and much costlier V-12-powered Mercedes-Benz S65 offers more power.

That big power increase and the S8's lightweight aluminum chassis and skin combine for a 0-62 mph time of just 3.8 seconds.

Top speed for this executive express rises to just shy of 190 mph when derestricted.

The S8's high-tech, quilted-leather cabin remains as inviting as it's ever been.

Global pricing and availability hasn't been announced for the S8 Plus yet, but CNET anticipates a starting price of around $140,000 if it makes it to the US.

That's significantly costlier than the standard S8's $114,900 MSRP in the US, £80,735 in the UK and $300,000 in Australia on the road.

While the A8 upon which the S8 is based is available in an extended-wheelbase L model, the S8 comes in standard-length exclusively.

The S8's rear is its most subtle aspect, with smoked taillights and a gloss-black diffuser being the most noticeable changes.

Matte-effect floret silver paint is an Audi S8 Plus exclusive hue.

An eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox is standard on the S8. Note Audi's MMI infotainment finger-swipe touchpad ahead of the shifter.

The rear appears no less comfortable than the front, with both quilted-leather outboard seats getting their own climate control and power articulation.

Special door sill garnishes call out that this isn't a garden-variety A8.

European S8s feature dynamic turn signals with a sweep gesture. Differing lighting legislation may keep these units from US dealerships.

The European model shown here includes Matrix headlamps featuring 25 LEDs with individual control.

Four subtle, round exhaust tips peek out beneath the S8's rear bumper.

This cutaway drawing reveals the S8's all-wheel-drive internals. Also note the carbon-ceramic brakes.