Adapted from Auto Motor und Sport
Auto Motor und Sport, the popular German car magazine, tested 15 light systems offered on nine car models: Audi A8, BMW 4, BMW i3, Dacia Duster, Hyunday i10, Mercedes A-Class, Opel Astra, Peugeot 308, and VW Golf. Which technology gives the best performance? Does LED technology always mean a better light?
The ratings are a mix of objective measurement (how long is the seeing range, how homogeneous is the distribution) and subjective preference (with a strong fixation on blue-white light from LEDs). Here are the detailed results:
Test scale: very good: ++
Good +
Satisfactory =
just sufficient –
not satisfactory —
Audi A8: The Matrix-LED light is the winner of these tests, option price: €2400
| Xenon Plus Standard with the 6 cylinder model Although light projected is not as blue as with the LED systems, it’s very homogenous and has an excellent range. Light flux on the road: ++ Light colour: + Driving comfort: + |
|
 |
Matrix-LED This light is the illustration of progress through technology, it’s simply the best light you can buy today. Its light is homogenous and has an excellent range. But it’s during overtakings that the adaptive functions are perfect. Light flux on the road: ++ Light colour: ++ Driving comfort: ++ |
BMW 4series: Adaptive LED not as perfect as A8, option price: €1900
 |
Xenon with curve light Xenon is standard on 4 series, but a €580 option adds curve light, ADB, and automatic high/low beam functions. Curve light was found disturbing more than helpful. Light flux on the road: ++ Light colour: + Driving comfort: + |
 |
Adaptive LED Although a pioneer in LED technology, BMW does not reach the perfection of the A8 light. Homogeneity is not flawless and the adaptive functions are not as smooth and faultless as on the Matrix-LED A8. Light flux on the road: ++ Light colour: ++ Driving comfort: + |