AUDI was, I think, embarrassed that a car (Model S) so many compare in size to their A6/A7 was classified as a LARGE car, while the A8 was only a MIDSIZE car in the same class, that they just gave up and discontinued the A8 as of the 2016 model year. They only offer the A8 L in the US now, their 'extended wheelbase' version of the car. I believe AUDI felt exposed, because their other competitors, Porsche Panamera, BMW 7-Series, and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, are all classified as LARGE even without selecting their extended wheelbase versions. Check the EPA's website again, for the 2015 A8, and you'll see what I mean.