If you really want an S8 then chances are you can afford to run one, but if you’re considering the model then be aware that fuel, tax and insurance will all be sky high. Audi servicing is notoriously expensive – even more so for high performance cars like the S8, but it’s essential, especially if you want to get the best price come sale time. The large tyres are also pricey and not easy to get hold of.

With its large 5.2-litre V10 petrol engine and average fuel consumption figure of just 21mpg, it’s no surprise that the S8 gets a rock-bottom eco score. It emits 319g/km CO2, which although is about average for an executive saloon, is exceptionally poor compared to the average family car. A Mondeo will typically emit about 180g/km CO2 for instance. The only saving grace is that buyers of these sorts of cars tend to do fewer miles per year than those that own average family cars.

The S8 a very sophisticated car, with plenty to potentially go wrong, but Audi has a strong reputation for supreme engineering and excellent reliability. We expect the S8 to be no exception.