Although the new Audi A7 Sportback might look very similar to its predecessor, the newcomer features a host of technical innovations, plus it debuts Audi's new - albeit confusing - naming strategy.
It’s underpinned by the same architecture as the A8, but whereas the range-topper’s focus is pampering its passengers packaged in a very elegant design, the A7 Sportback is lower, lither and altogether more aggressive.
Aspects of the styling of the A7 that are impossible to ignore are the expressive light signatures front and rear, employing both LED and laser-based technology. Like the Audi A8 its interior is dominated by three screens: a Virtual Cockpit replacing the traditional instrument binnacle, and a pair of stacked touchscreens for the Multi Media Interface (MMI) used to control and display the music and audio, sat-nav, climate control and system settings.
Only one engine will be available in the A7 initially. It's a 3.0-litre V6 badged 55 TFSI and it produces 250kw and 500nm of torque.
Audi South Africa is planning on introducing the new A7 around Q3 2018, and model specs and pricing will be released closer to the time.
Also worth a look: the Audi Rs3 and the Out with the Old, In with the New: Audi A5 Replaces A4 in So.
FAQ
Q: What does the Audi A7 cost in South Africa?
Audi South Africa hasn't released official pricing yet, but expect the A7 55 TFSI to start around R1,200,000 when it launches in Q3 2018, putting it squarely in premium executive coupe territory.
Q: Is the Audi A7 worth buying over the A6?
If you want the A6's practicality wrapped in a sexier four-door coupe body with more aggressive styling and the same tech as the flagship A8, then absolutely, the A7 justifies its premium over the regular A6.
Q: How powerful is the new Audi A7 engine?
The A7 55 TFSI packs a 3.0-litre V6 turbo producing 250kW and 500Nm of torque, which should be plenty to move this sleek Sportback with proper German authority.
Q: What tech features does the Audi A7 have?
The A7 gets the full A8 treatment with three screens including Virtual Cockpit, dual MMI touchscreens for everything from climate to nav, plus LED and laser lighting signatures that'll make you the envy of every parking lot.
Should You Buy It?
The best executive coupe under R1,500,000 in SA is shaping up to be this new A7 Sportback. With A8-level tech, aggressive styling that actually looks different from every other Audi, and a properly potent 250kW V6, this is the thinking person's alternative to the usual German coupe suspects. Yes, you should definitely consider it if you want something more exciting than an A6 but don't need the full S-model madness, especially when it lands in Q3 2018 at an expected R1,200,000 starting price.
