The body of the new Audi A7 Sportback consists primarily of aluminium and high-tech steel grades
Audi promises space, luxury and a sporty drive with the New A7, we went to Copenhagen to find out if this new model can deliver writes Geraldine Herbert
What is it? Due here in October the refreshed model combines performance with impressive economy. Along with new engine configurations the A7 benefits from new transmissions, new headlights and tail lights and an enhanced infotainment system.
First impressions of the new Audi A7? Visually changes to the front grille, bumpers and the lighting are the most striking differences but over all it looks a much more sleeker package with sharper almost angular lines.
What about the interior? Slip behind the wheel and instantly subtle changes to the interior enhance the luxury feel and echo the sleek elegance of the exterior. Typically in this sector, the options list is long and includes aluminium/Beaufort walnut inlays, contrasting stitching, black door trims and a new high-grade Valcona leather finish.
Audi A7 on the road: It’s a super smooth to drive and will waft sumptuously along motorways. While it is no sports car, its sheer bulk is hard to disguise, it handles back roads and corners well. Replacing the old eight speed automatic is a much slicker seven-speed S tronic gear box.
The sleek sophistication of the exterior is echoed in the car’s interior.
How Much? The “ultra” version with 218bhp, front-wheel drive and a 3.0-litre V6 engine is capable of returning a very frugal 4.7 litres per 100km and an impressive 122 grams per kilometre for CO2 emissions. The entry price in Ireland for the A7 will be €67,550 with the S7 starting at €113,450.
How Safe? The Audi A7 comes with an array of passive and active safety features. It has not however been crash tested by the EuroNcap
What are my options? From launch, the new generation A7 Sportback will be available with a choice of four engines. Power outputs range from 218bhp to 320bhp. There is also a fifth engine option in the range topping S7 with a seriously fast 450bhp of power. A new trim level is also being introduced so in addition to the SE and S Line versions there will be a new SE Business line for the first time. Upgrades feature individual contour seats with electric 22 way adjustment finished in luxurious Valcona Leather, fine grain ash wood inlays, 4 zone climate control, MMI Navigation plus and 19” 5 V spoke alloy wheels.
3 words to describe: Sophisticated; Super frugal; Smooth
For more information check out the Audi Ireland website or the Facebook page
Geraldine Herbert
8th August, 2014
