Some cultures believe the number eight has magic powers. The Chinese believe eight is lucky because it sounds like their word meaning to generate wealth. And of course here in America, we have the famous Magic Eight Ball, which may possess its own set of mystical powers. But, I digress.

One thing is for certain, there is something magical about driving the Audi A8.

It could be its aggressively luxurious appearance, with the large Audi grille prominently displayed with its unmistakeable LED headlights. Or maybe it’s the 372 horses generated from the 4.2-liter V8 engine.

Whatever the case may be, this luxury sedan is one of the best displays of Audi’s craftmanship, engineering, technology and luxury. It might not be magical, but it is special.

Audi employs ASF technology to create a seamless body. The ASF technology uses extruded aluminum and laser-welded body panels to decrease weight and construct a flawless fit and finish.

My tester was the 4.2-liter quattro V8. New to this model year is the W12 quattro with a 6.3-liter engine generating a whopping 500 HP. My tester seemed mild when compared to the W12. Make no mistake, there’s very little that’s tame about the A8, but yet it maintains a moderate amount of refinement.

The eight-speed (there’s that number again) Tiptronic transmission works in perfect correlation with the drivetrain to deliver well-timed shifts.

Double-door seals and dual-pane glass keep road noise to a minimum, while Audi’s adaptive air suspension makes the ride smooth and comfortable.

Inside, all passengers are surrounded by luxury and comforts. Leather-clad seats and wood-grain trim accent the interior. Front-row passengers can even enjoy a massage. Five different massage settings are available for driver and passenger. Audi’s MMI system and Google Earth-based navigation provide real-time traffic, news and fuel price updates. The A8 is wifi-enabled for up to eight passengers (there’s that number again). A Bang-Olufsen sound system offers surround-sound quality audio.

The A8 has three models — the base, the L and the W12. Eight different color options are available (and there’s that number again).

Starting price for the base is $78,750, while my tester, the L, had a MSRP of $84,700. A few extra packages and options took it to $89,175. One such option, not available on my tester unfortunately, is the executive rear seating package which offers reclining seats with power footrests and a refrigerator in the rear center pass through compartment.

Due to its lighter weight and design upgrades, the Audi A8 has a combined fuel economy of 21 MPG. In a week’s worth of brisk driving I averaged 22 MPG, mostly on the highway.

If you are lucky enough to be able to drive or own the Audi A8, you will experience a magical driving experience.

Jimmy Dinsmore is the Wheels editor at the Dayton Daily News and may be reached at (937) 225-2115. Follow him on Twitter @wheelseditor