Audi A7/S7: Refined Style and Enhanced Design
CAR / NEWS
May 1, 2015

Audi A7/S7: Refined Style and Enhanced Design


Audi A7 Sportback
Audi S7 Sportback


Audi A7/S7: A Refined, Stylish Design



Audi is launching a refreshed version of its sporty four-door hatchback coupe, the A7 Sportback and S7 Sportback, in Europe this summer. Key updates include design enhancements, the integration of the latest technology, and increased engine power.

Text by SAKURAI Kenichi




Refined Exterior and Interior


Audi has updated theA7 Sportbackand its sporty variant, theS7 Sportbackfor a late summer 2014 launch in Germany. The new A7 Sportback and S7 Sportback feature more powerful engines, a new transmission, updated headlight and taillight designs, and the latest infotainment system.

The A7 Sportback, based on theA6which debuted in 2010, is an E-segment model characterized by its wide, low-slung exterior with a hatchback style. It garnered global attention as a sporty model with a hatchback in a premium segment traditionally dominated by notchbacks. With a luggage capacity of 535 liters, expandable to 1,390 liters by folding the rear seats, the A7 Sportback offers a compelling blend of practicality and coupe styling.




Audi S7 Sportback





Audi S7 Sportback





The most striking change is the revised front fascia, featuring a new singleframe grille with a hexagonal motif. Complementing this are the new Matrix LED headlights, utilizing the latest LED technology derived from theA8. These Matrix LED lights employ 25 LEDs for the high beams in addition to those for the low beams. A forward-facing camera detects oncoming vehicles and pedestrians, intelligently controlling the light distribution to avoid dazzling others while providing optimal illumination.

Inside, new materials such as aluminum/Beaufort walnut panels and Valcona leather have been introduced to enhance the sense of quality. The front seats can be optionally equipped with ventilation and massage functions, with four seat versions available. The MMI (Multi Media Interface), featuring LTE-enabled Wi-Fi, is integrated with a head-up display that projects key information onto the windshield, improving usability and visibility.





Audi A7 Sportback
Audi S7 Sportback


Audi A7/S7: A Refined, Stylish Design (2)




Powerful Engine Upgrades


Perhaps the most significant update is the powertrain renewal.

The 2,994cc V6 DOHC supercharged 3.0 TFSI engine for the A7 Sportback, which will be available in Japan, has seen its maximum output increased from 228 kW (310 PS) to 245 kW (333 PS).

Meanwhile, the S7 Sportback's 4-liter V8 DOHC twin-turbo engine with intercooler, previously producing 309 kW (420 PS), now delivers 331 kW (450 PS). Furthermore, it incorporates the latest COD (Cylinder on Demand) technology, which deactivates half the cylinders under low to medium loads in higher gears to improve fuel efficiency. The 3.0 TDI twin-turbo diesel engine, with a maximum output of 235 kW (320 PS), has been newly equipped with an 8-speed Tiptronic transmission.




Audi A7 Sportback





Audi A7 Sportback





The A7 Sportback comes standard with the "Audi drive select dynamic handling system" combined with sports suspension. The S7 Sportback features adaptive air suspension, allowing for sportier settings.

Additionally, cutting-edge safety features such as Audi's renowned "adaptive cruise control," "active lane assist," and "night vision system" have been updated.

The updated models are expected to be introduced in Japan by the end of 2014 or early 2015.