A8 D3 vs LS IV (XF40): which is better?
Audi A8 D3 (2002–2010) vs Lexus LS IV (XF40) (2006–2017): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Audi A8 D3
Lexus LS IV (XF40)Specifications
| Audi A8 D3 | Lexus LS IV (XF40) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2002–2010 | 2006–2017 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 4.2 V8 | 4.6 V8 (LS460) |
| Power, up to | 335 hp | 380 hp |
| Torque, up to | 430 Nm | 493 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | rear-wheel drive |
| Length | 5 051 mm | 5 060 mm |
| Width | 1 894 mm | 1 875 mm |
| Height | 1 444 mm | 1 465 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 944 mm | 2 970 mm |
| Fuel tank | 90 L | 84 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 507 425 ₸ | ≈ 510 225 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Audi A8 D3
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 335 hp
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large fuel tank: 90 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Gearbox ZF 5HP/6HP: bushing and mechatronics wear
Gearbox (ZF 5HP/6HP): bushing and mechatronic wear; shift shocks.
Lexus LS IV (XF40)
Pros
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: generally reliable
- Powerful versions: up to 380 hp
- Large fuel tank: 84 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Toyota/Lexus UR engine (V8): water pump leak
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: valve body wear at high mileage
Engine (Toyota/Lexus UR (V8)): water pump leak; oil leaks through gaskets and seals at high mileage.
Gearbox (Aisin automatic): generally reliable; at high mileage — valve body wear.
Which one to choose
- A8 D3 — if you care more about: fuel tank, kz tax 2026.
- LS IV (XF40) — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: A8 D3 or LS IV (XF40)?
A8 D3: up to 335 hp, LS IV (XF40): up to 380 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: A8 D3 — about 507 425 ₸, LS IV (XF40) — about 510 225 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.