Audi A7

 

What‘s it?

 Once the Audi A7 was introduced in 2010 its fastback coupé styling and five-door package proved to become a compelling combination. Now Audi hopes to enhance the A7’s popularity still further having a facelift and revised 3. 0-litre TDI engines, including a higher efficiency 3. 0-litre TDI Ultra variant. The conventional 268bhp 3. 0-litre TDI engine is substantially upgraded to enhance efficiency and reduce fuel consumption, and has been introduced towards the A7 range for the very first time. Audi's Ultra version is calibrated to further optimise fuel consumption and CO2. There’s less power at 215bhp but torque remains a plentiful 295lb ft. The trade-off is valued at it when it comes to economy though, using the Ultra returning 60. 1mpg when compared with 54. 3mpg for the greater powerful engine. CO2 emissions are correspondingly lower too, at 122g / km instead of 136g / km. SCR (selective catalyst reduction ) means the Ultra meets Euro 6 emissions standards and earns ‘clean diesel’ status too. What‘s it like? Despite further optimisation from the engine, there’s no detect that the Audi A7 Ultra is really a green machine when driving.

The engine is strong, flexible and lively when roused, responding having a subdued growl during hard acceleration. Upon the flip side, the TDI is extremely refined too with no discernible vibration and with a 70mph cruise the engine turns over with a relaxed 2, 100rpm. An all-new, dry-sump S tronic dual-clutch gearbox makes its debut inside the A7 Ultra and it is swift-shifting and smooth. Quality roads upon the test route threw up few challenges when it comes to surface quality and in those conditions the A7’s ride proved supple, with only moderate noise from its 255 / 50 R19 Pirelli P Zeros. There’s an almost uncanny absence of wind noise too. The steering isn‘t any thriller and initial response is relaxed to mention the smallest amount. Feel errs in the direction of the steady and stable with a B-road pace, not simply at motorway speeds, but upon the plus side the A7 grips tenaciously in bends with only moderate body roll. Inside the Drive Select menu the Efficiency setting dials-in a sluggish throttle reaction to filter inefficient driver input, while Dynamic sharpens everything such that keener drivers may leave it there. The facelift includes the addition of Audi’s single frame grille, changes towards the bumpers and trapezoidal tailpipe apertures.

The A7 now has LED headlamps as standard but there’s also the choice from the very latest technology Matrix LED lamps which dim individual diodes inside the cluster to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic. Top quality materials are lavished on the beautifully trimmed interior as is usual with Audi, although many of the available choices, like wood trim upon the test car, seem at odds using the sporty exterior. Infotainment systems comprise the newest Audi MMI (multi media interface ) and there’s an optional Bang & Olufsen version too. Should I buy one? The Audi's Benefit-in-Kind tax band is 20% and VED is free of charge for the very first year, then £110 from year two. Regarding that basis and offered the high levels of fuel economy, comfort and sharp design, the A7 Ultra is really a package that business users in particular should find attractive. Audi A7 3. 0 TDI Ultra S tronicPrice £45, 875 ; 0-62mph 7. 3sec ; Top Speed 148mph ; Economy 60. 1mpg ; CO2 122g / km ; Kerb weight 1755kg ; Engine 2967cc, V6, turbocharged diesel ; Power 215bhp at 4000-4750rpm ; Torque 295lb ft at 1250-3750rpm ; Gearbox 7-speed dual-clutch automatic Audi A7 Ultra first drive review