A8 D4 vs GS IV (L10): which is better?
Audi A8 D4 (2010–2017) vs Lexus GS IV (L10) (2011–2020): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Audi A8 D4
Lexus GS IV (L10)Specifications
| Audi A8 D4 | Lexus GS IV (L10) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2010–2017 | 2011–2020 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 3.0 TFSI | 3.5 V6 (GS350) |
| Power, up to | 290 hp | 317 hp |
| Torque, up to | 420 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | rear-wheel drive |
| Length | 5 137 mm | 4 850 mm |
| Width | 1 949 mm | 1 840 mm |
| Height | 1 460 mm | 1 455 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 992 mm | 2 850 mm |
| Fuel tank | 82 L | 66 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 42 425 ₸ | ≈ 68 375 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Audi A8 D4
Pros
- Gearbox ZF 8HP: a reliable gearbox
- Powerful versions: up to 290 hp
- Large fuel tank: 82 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Gearbox ZF 8HP: rarely, mechatronics and bushings at high mileage
Gearbox (ZF 8HP): reliable gearbox; rarely — mechatronic and bushings at high mileage.
Lexus GS IV (L10)
Pros
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: generally reliable
- Powerful versions: up to 317 hp
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine Toyota 2GR-FE/FKS (3.5 V6): rubber VVT-i oil line can burst on early engines (before ~2010)
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: valve body wear at high mileage
Engine (Toyota 2GR-FE/FKS (3.5 V6)): rupture of the rubber VVT-i oil line on early engines (before ~2010); water pump leak; valve cover gasket leaks.
Gearbox (Aisin automatic): generally reliable; at high mileage — valve body wear.
Which one to choose
- A8 D4 — if you care more about: torque, wheelbase, fuel tank, kz tax 2026.
- GS IV (L10) — if you care more about: power.
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 D4 or GS IV (L10)?
A8 D4: up to 290 hp, GS IV (L10): up to 317 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: A8 D4 — about 42 425 ₸, GS IV (L10) — about 68 375 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.