Audi has taken
the wraps off the new A7 Sportback. Drawing inspiration from the prologue
concept, the A7 adopts a stylish and upscale design with a wide Singleframe
grille that is flanked by distinctive headlights and sporty air intakes. The
unique styling continues further back as the car has been equipped with a
sculpted hood, bold character lines, and a flowing roof.
The rear of the car is "tapered like that of a
yacht" and features an integrated spoiler that automatically extends at
120 km/h. Designers also installed a full-length light strip which
consists of 13 vertical segments that can play various light animations.
Inside, drivers will find an elegant
and high-tech interior equipped with two touchscreen displays. A variety of
different options will be available including an Audi virtual cockpit, a
head-up display, and a Bang & Olufsen audio system. Other highlights
include Valcona leather upholstery, voice control technology, and an ambient
lighting package.
The A7 Sportback can be
equipped with an assortment of driver assistance systems including Audi AI.
Thanks to an assortment of cameras and sensors, the A7 will be able to
autonomously maneuver into and out of parking spaces and garages. Drivers will
also find more familiar assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control.
The A7 will be offered with a
turbocharged 3.0-liter TFSI V6 engine that develops 340 PS and 500 Nm of torque. It is connected to a seven-speed S tronic transmission
and a quattro all-wheel drive system which enables the car to accelerate 0-100
km/h in 5.3 seconds before hitting a top speed of 250 km/h. Shortly after production begins, the model will be offered with an
assortment of four- and six-cylinder engines in both diesel and petrol guise.
On the handling front, the car can be equipped with
four different suspensions including a conventional steel spring suspension and
an updated air suspension that promises to be even "more agile, nimble,
and comfortable." Customers can also order a sport suspension which
reduces the ride height by 10 millimeters.
Drivers will also notice a progressive steering
system with a "sporty ratio" that becomes even more direct the
further the steering wheel is turned. Another notable feature is the
dynamic-all-wheel steering system which is an option that allows the rear
wheels to turn by as much as 5 degrees.
The A7 Sportback will be launched in Germany this
February and pricing starts at € 67,800.
