The sexiest Sportback is, uh, back.
German carmaker Audi’s local office has announced the impending arrival of the second-generation of its sexy, commanding A7 Sportback, news that will have definitely set the hearts of many well-heeled buyers aflutter. Due to land in November, a year after its global debut, the new A7 promises to offer better kit and overall value than the car it replaces. It should, frankly: It’s asking price starts at $131,900, a significant increase over the outgoing model which started below the $120k mark.
The A7 Sportback will arrive in Australia in two guises, namely the A7 55TFSI and the A7 50TDI. Both models will use 3.0-litre V6 turbo engines, with the 55TFSI using petrol and producing 250kW and 500Nm, while the 50TDI takes diesel and puts out 210kW and 600Nm. Unique to each engine will be the transmission on offer: The TFSI will use a 7-speed double-clutch S-Tronic automatic, whereas the torquier TDI will make use of an eight-speed torque-converter automatic (arguably better for touring).
In 2019 the A7 Sportback range will receive a new 45TFSI variant, using a turbocharged 4-pot petrol engine with some 180kW/370Nm on tap, using the same 7-speed S-Tronic ‘box as the 55TFSI, though pricing and spec for the entry-level A7 45TFSI have yet to be offered.
That said, all cars will send their power to all-four wheels via Audi’s vaunted Quattro all-wheel drive system, though progressive-ratio steering and adjustable suspension will be offered as options.
All models will also benefit from Audi’s new 48V mild-hybrid system, using a belt-driven start unit and a compact 10Ah lithium-ion battery pack. This system claims to improve fuel economy by up to 0.7L/100km, and is capable of keeping the electrics running even when the engine is switched off while coasting (at speeds of up to 22km/h).
More than just efficiency gains, the new A7 Sportback will also pack a variety of advanced driver assistance systems to mark it out as a properly-modern offering. Expect to see standard fitment of a heads-up display, smart cruise control with traffic jam functionality, collision warning front & rear, cross traffic alert, and 360º cameras across the range.
In addition, you’ll find 20-inch alloys, tri-zone climate control, Matrix HD LED headlights, smartphone mirroring, wireless charging, leather upholstery, heated front seats with electric adjustment (and memory for the driver), a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system, and advanced LED ambient light systems thrown in, too. The A7 Sportback range will also benefit from the S-Line styling package for both the interior and exterior, as well as the new dual-touchscreen MMI system that first debuted in the Audi A8 limousine.
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