DESPITE the economic downturn, many small operators in the chauffeur hire market reckon the market should improve come September. So this may well be the ideal time to launch a stretched limo version of a current car.

Audi has added a long wheelbase version of its flagship A8 luxury model, 13cms longer than the standard car and all for the benefit of the passenger in the rear.

Passengers can have the option of reclining relaxation seats, complete with footrest and back massage to give real club-class comfort.

There are all the luxury gizmos as seen on the standard model including internet connectivity and a sat nav that is plugged into Google Earth to give the driver an actual picture of the terrain outside, overlaid with the route instructions