A new style sedan arrived on the automotive scene a few years back in the form of a coupe/sedan and the A7 is Audi’s entry into that category. From the B-pillar forward the vehicle appears to be a traditional sedan but from that point aft there is a long slope to the trunklid giving this styling its signature look.
Nearly every luxury automaker has a “four-door coupe” vehicle in its lineup and some of the Asian and domestic brands are incorporating this as well. Basically we are left with a vehicle that features very similar statistics and dimensions but appears to be slicing through the wind even while sitting still, and therein may lie the true appeal of this diversion.
The A7 arrived on US soil several years ago and for 2016 gets a few midlife upgrades. Audi has brought LED lighting to all A7 models front and rear and for this the automaker has updated the front and rear fascias. Audi has also given A7 a little more power under the hood while bringing a host of new technology to the interior.
Our tester arrived with the 3.0T engine, a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 that produces 333hp and 325 lb. ft. of torque. It is mated to the Tiptronic 8-speed automatic transmission with power sent to the wheels via the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. This all adds up to a sporty driving experience with smooth power on demand all the way through the power band. Audi threw in the S-Line sport package that added sport suspension and unique 20-inch five-spoke wheels with all season tires.
Inside the A7 we find typical German luxury at every turn from the seats to the dash to the doors. Audi does not skimp on amenities as the 2016 A7 is loaded to the gills with all the latest driver infotainment technology, automotive safety equipment, and driver assistance systems. Our A7 Prestige tester arrived with head-up display along with BOSE premium surround audio system, ventilated from seating, and LED interior lighting. All 2016 A7 models receive the latest MMI multi-media interface technology along with 4G LTE connectivity and in-car Wi-Fi, INRIX online traffic info, Apple Siri Eyes Free integration, and web radio streaming.
Pricing for the 2016 Audi A7 begins at $68,300 with our loaded tester arriving with a final sticker of $75,425. EPA fuel economy ratings are 20 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.
The A7 works more like a hatchback than a sedan in the rear but there is still plenty of room for cargo. Inside there are only four seating positions but each one is roomy and comfortable. For those requiring more seating or cargo space Audi still offers its Q-line of luxury crossovers.
If you are shopping for a luxury sedan do not make the mistake of overlooking Audi. The brand may not be foremost in people’s minds when they think of German luxury vehicles but the Audi delivers where it counts, in its performance each and every day. The A7 was a blast to drive, offered very good handling characteristics, was smooth and quiet, and offered up all the amenities for a glimpse into the lifestyles of the rich and famous.