Having received such awards as Automobile Magazine's 2011 "Automobile of the Year" and the 2011 "Esquire Car of the Year," it's clear that the 2012 Audi A7 is an amazing automobile. While we'll expand on its many finer points later on, we do want to emphasize the obvious; the new A7 is simply gorgeous. Although, it takes more than just a pretty face and curvacious figure to win our affection. There has to be just as much substance as style. Could Audi's new Sportback be the perfect package? Read on to find out.
Starting first by popping the hood, we find a 3.0-liter V6 that, despite a confusing TFSI nameplate, delivers 310 supercharged horsepower and 325 lb/ft of torque. Essentially a less potent version of the S4's mill, the A7's 3.0T managed to expel from me nearly the same number of laughs, grins, "awesomes" and occasional affirmative expletive as the S4; all despite being a larger car. For you left-brainers out there, this equates to a 5.4 second run to 60 mph, on to a limited top speed of 130 mph. Not bad for weighing over 4,000 pounds.
But straight line performance is cheap. In an effort to explore the A7's handling capabilities, we made use of the many winding, Pennsylvania country roads we happen to have nearby. The first step in back-road pleasure in the A7 is to locate the car's ride settings within the MMI system and turn the dial to "dynamic." From there, move the gear lever all the way back, selecting "S" rather than "D." This combination both stiffens the A7's suspension and directs the standard 8-speed automatic transmission to hold gears longer; maximizing as much power and torque as possible, whilst remaining firmly planted at each apex. Coupled with the light feel of the A7's electromechanical power steering and you may forget there is still another row of seats and long hatch behind you.
Which speaking of rear seats and hatch, brings us to the more domestic side of the A7. Coincidentally, Waterfest (the nation's largest VW/Audi car show) happened to fall within the same time as our seven-day road test. This not only provided an excellent opportunity to showcase the new A7 to thousands of VAG-enthusiasts, but also gave us a chance to cram as much stuff into the "trunk" as possible. Unfortunately we forgot to snap a picture of the result but this is what we brought: 2 large coolers (the kind with wheels and a handle), a case of bags of potato chips, 2 folding chairs, 2 backpacks with camera gear and a front-grille from a B7 A4 (for a swap meet). Everything fit with a surprising amount of room to spare, which for us was a perfect testament to the A7's Avant-like utility, without the unjust American stigma of a "station wagon."
Further inside, the A7's cockpit is very reminiscent of the A8. A familiar dash layout and design that is now a standard sight even in the new 2012 A6. We will however give higher marks to A8's center console, boasting a more ergonomic arrangement—thanks to the layout of MMI controls in relation to a brilliantly designed gear selector. Also, for those over 6 feet tall, the A7's rear seating may be slightly uncomfortable, especially getting in and out of the backseats. While headroom was ample for us once seated, we did have to make sure to duck a bit upon entering and exiting the car. An unavoidable consequence of the A7's swooping roof line.
While we were clearly smitten with "our" A7 at this point, the general public doesn't always share the same appreciation as us quattroholics. For instance, when we reviewed the 2011 A8 last March, I explained that "aside from an audacious face, the 2011 Audi A8 is surprisingly understated." Noting how we expected to "turn heads" in our $100k+ (as tested) Audi flagship sedan; when in fact, we received little more than an occasional glance. This was far from the case in the A7. Every moment behind the wheel was like a walk down the runway. From admiring stares by a wide array of passing motorists, to the many "hey, nice car" comments at the car wash and gas station, the A7 easily received more attention than any car we've tested at this point.
After living with the car for seven days, I truly had a hard time finding any significant faults with the new A7. With show-stopping good looks, plentiful power and performance and abundant utility, the A7 had lived up our highest expectations. Finding a special blend of both style and substance, it's clear to us that the 2012 Audi A7 is indeed, the perfect automotive package.
Key Stats:
- 3.0-liter TFSI supercharged V6 engine
- 310 horsepower and 325 lb/ft torque
- 8-speed automatic Tiptronic transmission w/ DSP
- quattro all-wheel drive w/ ESP (Electronic Stabilization Program)
- 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds
- 130 mph limited top speed
- 18 MPG city/28 MPG highway
As Tested:
2012 Audi A7 3.0 TFSI quattro Auto Tiptronic Sedan - $59,250.00
Dakota Gray Metallic paint - $475.00
Velvet beige interior with dark carpet - Included
Eight-speed Tiptronic transmission - Included
Prestige Package - $6,330.00
20" wheels with summer performance tires - $1,200.00
Audi side assist - $500.00
Audi Connect/Google Earth - Included
Destination Charge - $875.00
Total price as tested: $68,630.00 (fuel, license, title fees, taxes and dealer installed accessories are not included)
Words: Adam Bush
Photos: Matt Richards
Road Tests
Featured Posts
Featured Categories
Connect
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Road Test: 2012 Audi A7 3.0 TFSI
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Audi UK adds "most potent Audi V6 TDI ever" to A6 and A7 ranges
Carrying the bragging rights of "most potent Audi V6 TDI ever," Audi UK has introduced Audi's new bi-turbo, 3.0 TDI to their A6 and A7 model ranges. Boasting a very impressive 313 horsepower and 479 lb/ft of torque, the new diesel is capable of launching the A6 3.0 BiTDI quattro from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.1 seconds, on to a limited top speed of 155 mph; all the while averaging a frugal combined 44.1 MPG. Full report after the jump.
United Kingdom, February 1, 2012 - Knockout punch in a velvet glove comes courtesy of a formidable new 313PS Audi Biturbo TDI engine, which is now available for A6 Saloon and Avant and A7 Sportback models. The new twin-turbo V6 is notable not only for being the most powerful six-cylinder diesel engine ever offered by the Vorsprung durch Technik brand, but also the sweetest-sounding. Available now in A6 models priced from £43,810 OTR, and from £51,645 OTR in the A7 Sportback, it combines trademark Audi TDI refinement with an exhaust-mounted sound actuator that enables it to deliver its mighty 650Nm output to the tune of a distinctly sporting soundtrack.
Slotting in above the single-turbo 204PS and 245PS versions of the 3.0 TDI that already feature in the A6 and A7 Sportback ranges, the latest V6 has a two-stage turbocharger group that delivers a maximum boost pressure of up to 3.2 bar, helping the A6 3.0 BiTDI quattro Saloon to lunge at the horizon and pass the 62mph marker in as little as 5.1 seconds, and the A6 Avant and A7 Sportback to do the same in just 5.3 seconds. An electronically limited top speed of 155mph is common to all versions.
Like the existing TDI engines, the new star performer is backed up by technologies from the Audi modular efficiency platform, including start-stop and recuperation systems and the innovative thermal management system that quickly brings the coolant and oil up to their operating temperatures. With their help, combined economy in A6 and A7 Sportback models is on an equal footing at 44.1mpg – an impressive figure given the high outputs and low acceleration times involved.
Sound actuator
Thanks to an innovative actuator in the auxiliary channel of the exhaust system, the BiTDI A6 and A7 Sportback models don’t sound like they should be capable of such level-headed economy figures. The actuator system essentially consists of a speaker which imposes a defined oscillation pattern on the exhaust flow and transforms the typical TDI exhaust note into a more sonorous roar that is closer to the output of a high-performance petrol engine.
Without exception, power is transmitted from the BiTDI engine via an eight-speed tiptronic transmission to the latest generation quattro all-wheel-drive system, which features a self-locking centre differential and torque vectoring for optimum traction and stability. A sport differential which distributes power in continuously variable proportions between the rear wheels is available from the options list to sharpen and quicken response even further.
The mighty new BiTDI engine is available in conjunction with SE and S line specification in the A6 Saloon, A6 Avant and A7 Sportback. The forthcoming A6 allroad quattro, due to open for order in February, will also offer this exceptional unit.
Stand-out features common to all these models include satellite navigation linked to a 6.5-inch retractable colour monitor, Milano leather upholstery, the Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system controlling throttle response, transmission shift points and steering feel, the Audi parking system plus, light and rain sensors, cruise control and keyless go push-button engine ignition.
AUDI A6, A6 AVANT AND A7 SPORTBACK – UK OTR PRICING:
Source: Audi UK
Friday, February 3, 2012
Miranda Kerr spotted with her new Audi A7
As if the Audi A7 needed any help in the looks department, Miranda Kerr getting behind the wheel certainly doesn't hurt. The last we saw the stunning Victoria's Secret model with an Audi was with her husband, Orlando Bloom in his then-new 2011 A8. The addition of this A7 to the Bloom/Kerr fleet only further emphasizes the couple's impeccable taste in automobiles.
Check out the full gallery (with related celebrity gossip story) at Zimbio
Photo: Bauer Griffin via Zimbio
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Justin Bieber spotted driving an Audi A7 in L.A.
Posted today by celebrity blog, Socialite Life, are photos of Justin Bieber and his dad cruising around L.A. in a new Audi A7. While we'll refrain from voicing our opinion of his music, it's nice to see the Biebs has good taste in automobiles.
Full story and more pics at Socialite Life
Source: Socialite Life
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
MTM introduces new Audi A7 3.0 TDI tuning program
German tuning house, MTM has introduced a new performance program for the Audi A7. Designed specifically for the TDI-powered variant of Audi's all-new Sportback, MTM has managed to squeeze up to 300 horsepower and 442 lb/ft of torque from the A7's 3.0 TDI. The result, after receiving the MTM treatment, is a 163 MPH, bahn-burning diesel. More after the jump.
Utilizing the company's patented "M-Cantronic" ECU programming, MTM offers two power upgrades ranging from 285-hp and 427 lb/ft of torque to 300-hp and 442 lb/ft of torque. As MTM explains, "this operation proceeds minimal invasive in both cases and is settled after 90 minutes." In addition to the added power and torque, MTM can also remove the A7's speed limiter to offer a very impressive 163 MPH top speed. Rounding out the package is a performance-tuned exhaust, 20" Bimoto wheels and performance suspension system (available soon). Full press release, including pricing, after the photo gallery below.
Press Release:
MTM A7 3,0 TDI Quattro - a little bit more power?
Diesel engines prefer to show their strong sides in the part-load operational range: here they have a good traction and consume a little. This is also true for the A7 TDI Quattro which offers 245 hp and a tight torque of 500 Nm. For the typical MTM customer it can even be more in this 3 litre compression-ignition engine. Roland Mayer, head of MTM and the driving force behind this engineering laboratory outside the gates of Ingolstadt, learned about the original virtues of Audi six-cylinder cars, cultivated them partially and prepared two more variations, which leave nothing to be desired:
285 hp and 580Nm or 300 hp and 600Nm. This operation proceeds minimal inversive in both cases and is settled after 90 minutes. For the moderate version MTM focuses on the approved M-Cantronic. In business class MTM modifies the control unit. This heads the shapely A7 to a highspeed of 263 km/h. Both systems are available for 1.392 Euro incl. fitting.
Around 2.600 Euro – inclusive fitting – the perfectly adjusted exhaust system with four 89mm tail pipes costs. This is a visible sign that a MTM diesel is expected rather on the fast lane than on the slow lane.
This is not enough. More performance often requests the wish of a better handling. A suspension system for the A7 TDI Quattro is already tested and will soon be available for active operation. The MTM 20 inch rims in the Bimoto design in combination with 20mm or 30mm wheel spacers are also a part of the MTM product range. ‘The package is not yet calculated but I think that the suspension system will be available at a price of 699,- Euro’ says Roland Mayer. The earliest delivery date will be end of August 2011.
Source: MTM
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Video: Audi A7, Joel McHale & Melissa McCarthy in Primetime Emmy "Training Day" promo
In a new promo for the Primetime Emmy Awards, this year's host, Melissa McCarthy turns to her predecessor, Joel McHale to help her train for the show this Thursday. Why do we care? The new 2012 Audi A7 also makes an appearance. Remember, wax on... wax off.
Source: YouTube
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Audi coverage of the 2011 Carlisle Import & Kit Nationals
Kicking off our 2011 Audi show coverage season was the Carlisle Import & Kit Nationals held May 20-22 in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Seeing as we live only about two hours from the fairgrounds, we always make a point to visit this event and look forward to it all winter. But closer still are the Hershey offices of Fourtitude, whose staff is a fixture of the show and always line up some four-ringed rarities for the fans. In particular this year, with a taste of Audi's hot new, twin-charged A1.
As mentioned above, Carlisle is (unofficially) known as Fourtitude's "home show." Keeping that in mind, George and staff have been known to procure some of the most outlandish Audis seen this side of the Atlantic. For example, last year's show featured a (pre-US approval) TT RS and original Sport quattro. Albeit bearing a lot less horsepower and provenance, this year was no exception. On hand at Fourtitude's booth was a new A7 Sportback and a not-available-in-the-USA, 185-hp, twin-charged A1 1.4 TFSI that was driven to the event by Audi USA's A3, TT and R8 product planner, Mark Fruechtnicht. (Despite having this A1 displayed on US soil, we were told that we'll most likely have to wait until the next model refresh until we see the A1 on North American roads.)
Aside from the PR-related vehicles, Carlisle boasts (in our opinion) one of the most interesting and quite frankly, coolest showing of Audis on the East Coast. As you'll see in our photo gallery, the cars in attendance ranged from early 3-cylinder DKWs; to ur-quattros, ur-S4/S6s, 4000s, 5000s; all the way to brand-new S4s and even an R8 Spyder. For the Audi enthusiast (like us) who is looking for a more mature crowd and diverse selection of cars, Carlisle is a can't-miss event to kick off the summer show season.
In addition to the many Audis in the show field, our friends from Fourtitude were gracious enough to allow us to piggyback on their A1 photo shoot. Be sure to check out our photo gallery for shots of the entire Audi representation along with our own A1 mini-gallery.
Click here for our full photo gallery of the event.
Photos: Matt Richards
Words: Adam Bush
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Video: Fifth Gear tests the Audi A7 at 155 mph
The Audi A7 made an appearance on last weekend's episode of Fifth Gear. To test the car's high speed performance, all four hosts piled in and launched the new Sportback to its limited top speed of 155 mph. While the team was somewhat torn on the styling, all seemed quite impressed with the A7's ability to accelerate to, and cruise at top speed with such ease. All told, enough to earn this season's highest score yet. Video after the jump.
*Jump to the 7:33 mark in the video above for the A7 test.
Source: YouTube
Monday, May 16, 2011
Spied: Audi S7/RS7 mule spotted testing in Spain
Our spy photographers are still nestled deep within the Spanish countryside, hard at work spying on Audi and quattro GmbH's warm weather test drives. Today's shots are of an A7-bodied test mule that's nearly identical to the S7 mule we caught at the Nurburgring last September. We do however, have a sneaking suspicion that an RS7 powerplant could be under the hood of this one. More details and photos after the jump.
As its official debut nears, it becomes more apparent that the S7 will look very similar to an A7 S-line with some new bright-work, different wheels and quad exhaust. With that in mind then, this test mule could easily be branded an S7 (specifically pointing to this car's larger brakes and four exhaust pipes). But there is one small, yet very important detail which separates this from previously spied mules - the license plates.
Like last week's S/RS Q5 spy shots, you'll notice that this car is wearing "HN" license plates. These plates are almost always indicative of Neckarsulm/Heilbronn-based, quattro GmbH's RS-badged test mules (A and S cars typically carry Ingolstadt's "IN" license plates). This seemingly mundane detail could mean that an RS-heart is beating beneath the hood.
Whether this is an S7 or RS7, both models are expected to boast some pretty potent power figures. Citing leaked ETKA documents (Elektronischer Teilekatalog, the official Volkswagen Group parts catalog), speculation currently points to Audi's new biturbo, 4.0-liter V8 to power both. With 408hp for the S7 and most likely, just over 500hp for the RS7.
*Trailer hitch not included ;)
As always, until official confirmation, this is purely speculation. We'll be sure to keep our eyes and ears open for further developments.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Video: New Audi A7 "Ready the Road" Commercial
Audi of America has released the first U.S. TV-spot for the all-new, 2012 Audi A7 Sportback. Using the catch-phrase "Ready the Road," the new ad is not quite as "Bold" as some of the other A7 marketing efforts. However, in typical Audi style, the video is very well executed and certainly worth a watch. Video after the jump.
Source: Audi of America (YouTube)
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Perfect combo: Audi A7 with Black Optics and 21-inch Rotor-design wheels
Few would argue that, in any guise, the Audi A7 is a beautiful car. However, the right color and wheel choice can take even these sexy new lines to another level. Case in point is this A7 listed for sale in the Netherlands, sporting Dakota Grey metallic paint, Black Optics package and 21-inch Rotor-design wheels.
More photos and details can be found in the original listing at Auto Flevo.
via AudiBlog.nl
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Video: Audi A7 "Bold Design" Times Square Billboard
While in Manhattan for the 2011 New York Auto Show, I had the chance to see Audi's new A7 "Bold Design" interactive billboard. Measuring 15,000 square feet and complete with live Twitter feed and Foursquare check-ins, Audi really took Times Square advertising to another level. The following one-minute spot runs twenty times every hour to a crowd of over a million pedestrians every day. A bold statement to say the least.
I shot the video using my cell phone, so I apologize for the low quality. Hopefully this still gives an idea of how awesome a sight it was. The billboard will be running from April 18th through May 1st, so if you're in the NYC area, be sure to check it out.
UPDATE: Audi of America has just uploaded a great video highlighting the billboard experience (far better than my cell phone capture). Check it out below.
Press Release via Audi USA:
Audi Brings to Life the All-New A7 with Interactive Billboard in New York’s Times Square
• Campaign for the all-new A7 5-door coupe is centered around the tagline: "A boldly designed car deserves a boldly designed world"
• Interactive ad features seven “boldly designed” New York City locations; viewers can visit mobile site to download guide maps to all seven destinations
• Tweets to #BoldDesign and foursquare check-ins will appear on the billboard
HERNDON, Va., Apr 14, 2011 - Audi will launch the all-new A7 5-door coupe with an interactive billboard in New York City’s Times Square. Located at 46th Street and Broadway, the 15,000-square foot LED billboard will bring to life the Audi A7 tagline "A boldly designed car deserves a boldly designed world" by featuring places, objects and destinations within New York City that embody bold design. From April 18 through May 1, the ad will run 20 one-minute spots every hour.
"The all-new Audi A7 takes cues from high art, with dramatic stylings and bold features. A symbol of Audi’s craftsmanship, the sedan will join the ranks of icons in design and technology. To celebrate the A7’s bold statement, the interactive Times Square billboard will feature New York City locations that represent superior design and artistry," said Scott Keogh, Audi of America Chief Marketing Officer.
Seven locations will be featured throughout the lifespan of the campaign. Using a bold social media platform that includes the Times Square board, a QR code, text messages and a URL, the campaign will drive viewers to Audi’s online and mobile properties for more details about the locations and an interactive New York City guidebook. Locations featured on the billboard will be featured on the mobile site a7bolddesign.com, YouTube.com/audiusa and Facebook.com/audi.
New York City pedestrians are invited to Tweet their thoughts and favorite bold places to the billboard using the hashtag #BoldDesign. Audi fans and followers worldwide will be asked to answer the question "Where do you find bold design?" Their suggestions also will appear on the billboard via a continuously updated Twitter feed. In addition, passers-by can check in to the billboard on foursquare or Facebook Places. The A7bolddesign.com site also invites users to nominate their own bold destinations in New York City – or any other U.S. city -- through their mobile devices or the social sites. The bold destinations are searchable on a map, by nearest destination, or by alphabetical listing.
Surrounded by Broadway’s landmark theaters and Times Square’s largest hotels and popular retail destinations, an estimated 1,264,000 pedestrians per day will pass by Audi’s interactive billboard. The timing of the billboard coincides with the New York International Auto Show, one of the boldly designed locations in New York City featured in the campaign. The interactive billboard concept for the Audi A7 was conceived and implemented by New York-based MediaCom USA. Its design, execution and digital extensions were done by ZAAZ and M80, Audi’s social media agencies.
The perfect fusion of style, luxury and technology, every detail of the A7 delivers a striking visual statement. From the groundbreaking MMI® touchpad and its gracefully integrated display screen, to the state-of-the-art Head Up Display, the A7 is the perfect marriage of progressive design and sophisticated engineering. More than a design icon, the A7 also sets a high standard for performance, handling and efficiency with an all-aluminum Audi 3.0 liter TFSI® V6 engine, 310hp and 325 lb-ft. of torque. Visit http://models.audiusa.com/a7 to learn more about the all new 2012 A7.
Photos via Audi USA's Facebook Page
Video: QuattroholicVideos on YouTube
