Audi introduced the facelifted S8 model for the European market in 1999.
Aimed to compete against the Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG on the large luxury executive car sector, the new Audi S8 was assembled on the Volkswagen Group D2 platform and featured an Audi Space Frame monocoque in terms of bodywork construction (aluminium materials) and a redesigned grille. It was equipped with a 4.2L V8 petrol engine delivering an improved 340 PS and fitted with 5-speed tiptronic automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive. Two years later, aiming to introduce the S8 to the North American market, Audi gave it a boost in engine power of 24 PS. The model was discontinued in 2003.