Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018) Review
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Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018) At A Glance
Spacious and luxurious interior. Rarity ensures a degree of exclusivity. 3.0 BiTDI engine with 313PS is immensely quick.
Multitronic CVT in lower powered 3.0 TDI is not very responsive. Looks not to all tastes.
In 2011, the Audi A7 Sportback was launched as a response to the Mercedes CLS and another upmarket German offering, the BMW 5 Series GT. As with its rivals, it delivered a lot of luxury wrapped in a four-door fastback body. But it also straddled classes to give the Jaguar XF and Jaguar XJ saloons something to worry about, too. Read on for our full Audi A7 Sportback review.
The Audi A7 Sportback isn’t an easy car to pigeonhole. A master of continually creating new niche markets, Audi described it as “executive travel with a new slant”.
The idea was it blended the comfort of a saloon with the practicality of a hatchback, all wrapped up in the sleek shape of a coupe.
Designed to bridge the narrow gap between the Audi A6 and the Audi A8, it sits alongside other ‘alternative’ models like the Mercedes CLS and BMW 5 Series GT, offering similar levels of refinement and luxury, while the five-door hatchback bodystyle explains why it carries the Sportback badge.
This is very evident inside, where the interior is similar to the contemporary Audi A8 in its controls and amazing attention to detail. The quality and finish are superb and it has that solid, well-built feel that’s become a trademark of Audi cars.
It comes with a decent navigation and multimedia system, along with DAB digital radio, Bluetooth and an electrically opening tailgate as standard. To help it stand out, there’s also a subtle rear spoiler on the hatch which automatically raises at 80mph.
Travelling in the Audi A7 Sportback is a delight thanks to supreme refinement, amazing sound insulation and a smooth ride.
It also handles very well with great grip – especially so in the quattro four-wheel-drive models – and impressive poise in corners. It may look like an Audi A8 from the front, but it’s based on the chassis as the Audi A6 of the same period.
The Audi A7 Sportback features the company’s best engines of the time, all of which offer strong performance with good economy, helped by an automatic stop/start system.
The 3.0 TDI is impressively efficient given its size, yet still has plenty of pace when needed.
Some people may ask why the Audi A7 Sportback was needed when there was already the luxurious Audi A8, the Audi A6 and the Audi A5 Sportback in the line-up.
However it does offer something genuinely different, and for those who like to have a car that’s not quite run of the mill but still offers upmarket appeal and quality, it makes a great choice.
Fancy a new Audi A7 Sportback? Read our review of the latest model here.
Reviews for Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018)'s top 3 rivals
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Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018) handling and engines
- Engines range from 2.8 FSI quattro to 3.0 TFSI quattro
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 22–52 mpg
Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018): Handling and ride quality
As you’d expect, the Audi A7 Sportback is ideal for long-distance cruising thanks to great sound insulation, while the smooth shape means there’s no wind noise either.
The ride is forgiving and well controlled, although the S line models – which have lowered sports suspension and 19-inch alloy wheels – are noticeably stiffer.
They aren’t the best choice if you want outright comfort, although they are still able to cope adequately with uneven roads.
Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018): Engines
All Audi A7 Sportback models come with quattro four-wheel drive, with the exception of the lower-powered 3.0 TDI.
Despite the absence of 4WD, this model is still a great performer and more than capable of delivering strong pace thanks to 400Nm of torque.
It’s more relaxed than the high-powered version, but that’s down to the fact it comes with an eight-speed multitronic gearbox, rather than the more sporty seven-speed S tronic that features on the quattro models.
The multitronic is very smooth, as you’d expect of a CVT gearbox, but does sometimes need an extra second before it decides to kick down a gear. It isn’t as urgent as the S tronic, but is perfect for relaxed cruising.
The 204PS 3.0 TDI quattro model was introduced in July 2011. Despite having four-wheel drive, it’s actually slightly quicker from 0-62mph, taking 7.2 seconds.
The more powerful 245PS 3.0 TDI quattro model (later upped to 272PS) has lots of torque and really is the perfect engine for the Audi A7 Sportback, with plenty of mid-range punch, genuine performance and incredible response when accelerating.
The excellent S tronic twin-clutch box works superbly well too, and there are also paddles on the steering wheel if you fancy shifting gear yourself.
Most petrol versions of the Audi A7 Sportback use a 333PS 3.0 V6 motor that is quiet and potent, but quite thirsty. A 2.8-litre version of this engine was offered from 2014.
Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018): Safety
Although a safe car for its age thanks to six airbags, ABS anti-lock brakes, ESP traction control and Isofix rear child seat mounts, the Audi A7 Sportback doesn’t have the latest driver assistance tech of newer cars.
For instance, there is no lane keep assistance or automatic emergency braking. Nor does it have cross traffic alerts or driver fatigue warnings.
Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018): Towing
The Audi A7 Sportback is not an obvious choice for towing, but it can pull an unbraked trailer of up to 750kg. Swap that for a braked trailer and you can pull as much as 2100kg, depending on the model you pick.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.8 FSI quattro | 35 mpg | 8.3 s | 187 g/km |
| 3.0 BiTDI quattro | 45–54 mpg | 5.2–5.3 s | 136–167 g/km |
| 3.0 TDI | 55 mpg | 7.4 s | 135 g/km |
| 3.0 TDI 204 quattro | 48–49 mpg | 6.3–7.2 s | 152–156 g/km |
| 3.0 TDI 218 quattro | 52–54 mpg | 6.8 s | 136–142 g/km |
| 3.0 TDI 218 Ultra | 58–60 mpg | 7.3 s | 122–128 g/km |
| 3.0 TDI 245 quattro | 48 mpg | 6.3 s | 156 g/km |
| 3.0 TDI 272 quattro | 52–54 mpg | 5.7 s | 136–142 g/km |
| 3.0 TDI quattro | 49 mpg | 7.2 s | 152 g/km |
| 3.0 TFSI quattro | 34–54 mpg | 5.1–5.6 s | 176–190 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
73%
Real MPG
22–52 mpg
MPGs submitted
227
Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018) interior
- Boot space is 535–1390 litres
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4969–4974 mm |
| Width | 1911–2139 mm |
| Height | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2914–2915 mm |
Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018): Practicality
The Audi A7 Sportback offers something more versatile than an executive saloon, but with similar levels of quality and refinement.
At almost five metres long, it’s no surprise that there is an impressive amount of interior space, especially for those in the back who enjoy acres of legroom and generous headroom.
Getting three across the rear is difficult, though, due to the high transmission tunnel, which means there’s precious little room for your feet if you’re perched in the middle.
It’s very practical, though, and as the name suggests, the Audi A7 Sportback has five doors – one being the hatchback tailgate which immediately helps differentiate it from the saloons in the firm’s line-up.
It also makes this Audi the perfect grand tourer, with a boot that’s bigger than that of the Audi A8 of the same age. The 535-litre capacity can cope with several large suitcases and still have room to spare.
The rear seats can also be folded down, so you can carry the odd bit of furniture or a bicycle.
Plus electric opening and closing for the tailgate comes as standard, which is useful when you have armfuls of shopping.
Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018): Quality and finish
From behind the wheel, the controls and layout are similar to the contemporary Audi A8 saloon.
The quality of the finish is really incredible, with wonderful attention to detail.
Every switch and button is rock-solid and perfectly fitted, making the interior feel every inch befitting of a high-end vehicle.
There’s a range of finishes available, including a lovely veneer of layered oak which wouldn’t look out of place on a luxury yacht.
It really is one of the best interiors designs around for a car of this age.
Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018): Infotainment
The interior of the Audi A7 Sportback isn’t cluttered by buttons which helps to provide a modern appearance.
Instead, the stereo, Bluetooth and satellite navigation are controlled via what Audi calls its MMI (Multi Media Interface) system.
This features a dial in front of the gear lever for scrolling through the various functions and a large colour screen that neatly slides out of the dash top.
It’s very intuitive to use and although the sheer number of functions can seem daunting at first, it only takes a short time to familiarise yourself with it.
Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018) value for money
Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018): Prices
Most Audi A7 Sportbacks came with the 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine, and these models dominate the used market.
An early Audi A7 Sportback 3.0 V6 TDI in excellent order with around 70,000 miles from new can be yours for £11,000, which is a lot of car for the cash.
If you do find a petrol version for sale, it’s likely to be around £3000 more on top of this.
Go for a later Audi A7 Sportback of this generation and you’ll pay around £21,000 for a seven-year-old version with 50,000 miles, again with the diesel engine.
Audi A7 Sportback (2011 – 2018): Running Costs
If you want an Audi A7 Sportback but don’t fancy luxury car bills, the 3.0 TDI V6 in its simplest form offers up to 55mpg and carbon dioxide emissions of just 135g/km.
Go for the Ultra model and CO2 emissions drop to an even more appealing 122g/km, while economy improves to 60.1mpg. That means a road tax bill of £150 per year.
Contrast that with the £365 you could pay for the 3.0 V6 petrol engine in its least efficient guise, which also comes with claimed combined fuel economy of 34mpg (although it’s more likely to be in the high 20s).
Insuring an Audi A7 Sportback needn't be too costly, as some models sit in a group as low as 33. At the other end of the scale, the most potent bi-turbodiesel versions reach up to group 45, and so require a high premium.
Servicing the car at an independent Audi specialist will rein in the spend and keep it ticking along in fine form.
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The Audi A7 Sportback SE has 18-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights with daytime running lights, an electrically operated tailgate, the Audi Drive Select system, Bluetooth, DVD navigation, DAB digital radio, Milano leather upholstery, Audi Parking System Plus and music interface.
It also comes with electrically adjustable heated front seats, cruise control, electric windows, two-zone climate control, four-spoke multifunction steering wheel and a front centre armrest.
The Audi A7 Sportback S line adds 19-inch alloys, S line body styling, sports seats in valcona leather, S line interior styling, inlays in brushed aluminium, black cloth headlining, a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel and lowered sports suspension.
The Audi A7 Sportback Black Edition comes with 21-inch alloy wheels with a dark titanium finish and lowered S line sports suspension.
There is also a black finish for the grille, number plate surrounds and the window frame strips, plus rear privacy glass. Inside, there are piano black inlays, Valcona leather, a black headlining, and upgraded Bose stereo.
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4969–4974 mm |
| Width | 1911–2139 mm |
| Height | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2914–2915 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1695–1895 kg |
| Boot Space | 535–1390 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / 60000 miles |
| Servicing | 9000–18000 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Space-saving spare wheel / Run-flat tyres | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £41,175–£61,305 |
| Insurance Groups | 33–45 |
| Road Tax Bands | D–J |
| Official MPG | 34.4–60.1 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | - |
On sale until July 2018
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 3.0 BiTDI 320 Quattro Black Edition Tiptronic 5dr | £61,305 | 44.8 mpg | 5.2 s |
| 3.0 BiTDI 320 Quattro S Line Tiptronic 5dr | £58,905 | 44.8 mpg | 5.2 s |
| 3.0 TDI 218 Quattro Black Edition S tronic 5dr | £54,905 | 52.3 mpg | 6.8 s |
| 3.0 TDI 218 Quattro S Line S tronic 5dr | £52,505 | 52.3 mpg | 6.8 s |
| 3.0 TDI 218 Quattro SE Executive S tronic 5dr | £49,715 | 53.3 mpg | 6.8 s |
| 3.0 TDI 218 S Line Ultra S tronic 5dr | £50,835 | 58.9 mpg | 7.3 s |
| 3.0 TDI 218 SE Executive Ultra S tronic 5dr | £48,045 | 60.1 mpg | 7.3 s |
| 3.0 TDI 272 Quattro Black Edition S tronic 5dr | £57,485 | 52.3 mpg | 5.7 s |
| 3.0 TDI 272 Quattro S Line S tronic 5dr | £55,085 | 52.3 mpg | 5.7 s |
| 3.0 TDI 272 Quattro SE Executive S tronic 5dr | £52,295 | 54.3 mpg | 5.7 s |
| SE Executive BiTDi V6 320 Quattro Tip S Tronic Start/Stop AdBlue 5dr | £55,800 | 54.3 mpg | 5.2 s |
On sale until June 2017
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 3.0 TFSI Quattro SE Executive S tronic 5Seat 5dr | £52,230 | 54.3 mpg | 5.5 s |
On sale until April 2017
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 3.0 TFSI Quattro Black Edition S tronic 5Seat 5dr | £56,400 | 36.2 mpg | 5.1 s |
| 3.0TFSI 333 Quattro S Line S tronic 5Seat 5dr | £54,000 | 36.2 mpg | 5.1 s |
On sale until October 2015
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 3.0 BiTDI quatto S Line 320 tiptronic Auto 5dr | £56,730 | 44.8 mpg | 5.2 s |
| 3.0 BiTDI quattro Black Edition 320 tiptronic Auto 5dr | £59,080 | 44.8 mpg | 5.2 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro Black Edition 218 S Tronic Auto 5dr | £52,830 | 52.3 mpg | 6.8 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro Black Edition 272 S Tronic Auto 5dr | £55,410 | 52.3 mpg | 5.7 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro S Line 218 S Tronic Auto 5dr | £50,480 | 52.3 mpg | 6.8 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro S Line 272 S Tronic Auto 5dr | £53,060 | 52.3 mpg | 5.7 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro SE Executive 218 S Tronic Auto 5dr | £47,670 | 54.3 mpg | 6.8 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro SE Executive 272 S Tronic Auto 5dr | £50,255 | 54.3 mpg | 5.7 s |
| 3.0 TDI ultra S Line 218 S Tronic Auto 5dr | £48,705 | 57.6 mpg | 7.3 s |
| 3.0 TDI ultra SE Executive 218 S Tronic Auto 5dr | £45,915 | 58.9 mpg | 7.3 s |
| 3.0 TFSI quattro Black Edition 333 S Tronic Auto 5dr | £55,395 | 36.2 mpg | 5.3 s |
| 3.0 TFSI quattro S Line 333 S Tronic Auto 5dr | £53,045 | 36.2 mpg | 5.3 s |
On sale until August 2014
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 3.0 BiTDI quattro Black Edition 313 5dr Auto | £56,800 | 44.8 mpg | 5.3 s |
| 3.0 BiTDI quattro S line 313 5dr Auto | £54,450 | 44.8 mpg | 5.3 s |
| 3.0 BiTDI quattro SE 313 5dr Auto | £52,660 | 44.8 mpg | 5.3 s |
| 3.0 TDI 204 5dr Auto | £41,175 | 55.4 mpg | 7.4 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro Black Edition 204 5dr Auto | £50,585 | 48.7 mpg | 7.2 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro Black Edition 245 5dr Auto | £53,155 | 47.9 mpg | 6.3 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro S line 204 5dr Auto | £48,235 | 48.7 mpg | 7.2 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro S line 245 5dr Auto | £50,805 | 47.9 mpg | 6.3 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro SE 204 5dr Auto | £46,445 | 48.7 mpg | 7.2 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro SE 245 5dr Auto | £49,015 | 47.9 mpg | 6.3 s |
| 3.0 TDI S line 204 5dr Auto | £46,555 | 55.4 mpg | 7.4 s |
| 3.0 TDI SE 204 5dr Auto | £44,765 | 55.4 mpg | 7.4 s |
| 3.0 TFSI quattro Black Edition 310 5dr Auto | £53,260 | 34.4 mpg | 5.6 s |
| 3.0 TFSI quattro S line 310 5dr Auto | £50,910 | 34.4 mpg | 5.6 s |
| 3.0 TFSI quattro SE 310 5dr Auto | £49,120 | 34.4 mpg | 5.6 s |
On sale until November 2012
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.8 FSI quattro S line 5dr Auto | £47,720 | 35.3 mpg | 8.3 s |
| 2.8 FSI quattro SE 5dr Auto | £45,930 | 35.3 mpg | 8.3 s |
| 3.0 TDI quattro 5dr Auto | £42,355 | 48.7 mpg | 7.2 s |
Model History
- July 2010: Audi unveiled the A7 Sportback
- July 2011: More A7 quattro models launched
- January 2012: New 313PS Biturbo TDI engine now available
- November 2012: Black Edition A7 Sportback launched
- May 2014: Revised A7 Sportback revealed
- August 2014: Audi A7 TDI Ultra launched
July 2010
Audi unveiled the A7 Sportback
A model described as a four-door coupe designed to be a more practical alternative to the Audi A8 and a rival to the likes of the Mercedes-Benz CLS. 4,970mm long x 1,910mm wide. Up to 1,390 litres luggage capacity.
The new A7 Sportback will initially offer a choice of four FSI petrol and TDI engines delivering strong pulling power with limousine-like polish. The naturally aspirated 204bhp 2.8-litre FSI and supercharged 300bhp 3.0-litre TFSI petrol units will be complemented by two versions of the acclaimed 3.0-litre TDI in 204bhp and 245bhp .
For the first time in Audi models at this level, these will be combined with the rapid-shifting seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch sports transmission (on quattro models). The all-wheel-drive system appears in latest generation form with a 40/60 rear bias and featuring the crown gear differential first seen in the RS 5, which can vary torque distribution between the front and rear axles even more widely for even greater agility.
With the added benefit of new engine load-reducing electromechanical power steering, and the fuel-sparing, torque converter-free Audi multitronic continuously variable automatic transmission fitted as standard to front-wheel-drive versions, fuel economy of up to 53.3mpg, and CO2of as little as 139g/km is possible if the 3.0 TDI (204bhp) is specified.
Economy can also be further optimized when the standard satellite navigation system is upgraded to MMI navigation plus, the detailed route data from which can be used to factor corners into the automatic transmission’s shift strategy and avoid unnecessary, fuel-sapping gear changes. The optional adaptive cruise control and adaptive light swivelling cornering light systems are also influenced by feedback from the navigation unit.
In terms of size the new A7 Sportback stands almost toe to toe with the current A6 Saloon with a length of 4.97m and width of 1,91m, although its elegantly tapered coupe roofline ensures that it sits even more purposefully on the road. The executive class dimensions are reflected in executive class interior space for up to four adults, and when luggage takes precedence up to 1390 litres of capacity can be made available and is easily accessible via the long tailgate with its standard motorized operation, which also enables the precise opening angle to be set via buttons on the hatch.
The ‘hub’ of the interior is the advanced Multi Media Interface (MMI) system with retractable 6.5-inch monitor, which with its large central control knob and reduced number of buttons is now even more intuitive to use when operating the standard high end audio and navigation systems and the Bluetooth phone interface.
MMI will be upgradeable at extra cost to MMI Touch with its 8-inch monitor and fingertip sensitive touch pad as seen first in the new A8. As well as ultra-intelligent 3D navigation mapping, the new MMI Touch system can store audio tracks and telephone data on its sizeable hard disk. To enter a destination or phone number, the driver need only draw the required letters or numbers with their index finger on the touch pad.
For the first time in a production Audi, a ‘head-up’ display will be available at extra cost in the A7 Sportback. The sophisticated system will project key information, including economy and speed data and navigation routing onto the windscreen so that it appears to float at a distance of around 2.5 metres ahead of the driver.
July 2011
More A7 quattro models launched
New 3.0-litre TDI quattro 204PS models will be available to order early next month to coincide with a new Standard trim level that will be available exclusively with this engine. In new Standard form the A7 Sportback 3.0 TDI will lower the range entry price to £39,995 OTR, with the new A7 Sportback 3.0 TDI quattro just above at £41,675 OTR.
The ‘entry level’ V6 TDI engine has until now been offered only in conjunction with front-wheel-drive and the eight-speed multitronic continuously variable transmission. In this form it powers the A7 Sportback 3.0 TDI 204PS to 62mph from rest in 7.4 seconds and on to a 146mph top speed, while at the same time offering the potential for 55.4mpg fuel economy with low 135g/km CO2 emissions.
This configuration, which is now available from £39,995 OTR, will continue alongside the new quattro all-wheel-drive version. Equipped with the seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission, the A7 Sportback 3.0 TDI quattro 204PS covers the 0-62mph sprint a fraction more quickly at 7.2 seconds, matches the 146mph top speed and offers up to 48.7mpg with CO2 emissions of 152g/km.
January 2012
New 313PS Biturbo TDI engine now available
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.
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.
|
MODEL |
TRIM |
PS |
TRANSMISSION |
CO 2 (g/km) |
ECONOMY mpg (Combined) |
OTR |
|
A7 3.0 BiTDI quattro |
SE |
313 |
8 sp Tiptronic |
169 |
44.1 |
£51,645 |
|
A7 3.0 BiTDI quattro |
S line |
313 |
8 sp Tiptronic |
169 |
44.1 |
£53,435 |
November 2012
Black Edition A7 Sportback launched
Priced from £50,575 OTR to £56,785 OTR, the Black Edition distinguishing features start from the ground up with 21-inch rotor-design alloy wheels with a dark titanium finish and lowered S line sports suspension. There is also a black finish for the grille and number plate surrounds and the window frame strips, plus privacy glass extending from the B-pillar rearwards.
Inside, the scene is set by distinctive Piano Black inlays which complement the sports seats upholstered in black Valcona leather and the black headlining. The A7 Sportback Black Edition gains the BOSE upgrade, and already features DAB radio and AMI as standard from SE specification and above.
The new Black Edition specification is an ideal accompaniment to the formidable 3.0-litre BiTDI unit with its 313PS and 650Nm of torque. It's also available in all versions bar the front-wheel-drive 3.0-litre TDI 204PS and the S7 Sportback.
May 2014
Revised A7 Sportback revealed
Exterior changes to the A7 Sportback and S7 Sportback are limited, with just a new hexagonal grille and restyled bumpers to tell it apart. However, Audi has added LED headlamps as standard and Matrix LED headlights will be available as an option to reduce glare to oncoming vehicles by dimming individual diodes to oncoming traffic.
Inside the A7 Sportback is almost identical to the outgoing model, but Audi has added its latest infotainment system, with revised interface and MMI touch, which enables the driver to scroll and zoom in lists and maps via a touchpad. Audi has also introduced new interior materials to the A7 Sportback, with five new colour options, including Valcona leather, Lunar silver and aluminium/Beaufort walnut inlays. However, the overall layout remains unchanged and boot space is the same 535 litres, which increases to 1390 litres with the rear seats down.
Under the bonnet buyers can choose from five engines - two petrol and three diesel units – with outputs ranging from 218PS to 333PS. The only new powerplant in the range is the 218PS 3.0 TDI, which returns a claimed 60.1mpg and produces 122g/km of CO2.
The V6 diesel is linked to a front-wheel drive layout, with a redeveloped seven-speed automatic ‘box. The 3.0 TDI biturbo tops the diesel range, delivering 320PS with an eight-speed tiptronic transmission.
The S7 Sportback gets the familiar 4.0-litre TFSI, which delivers 450PS and uses Audi's cylinder on demand technology to deactivate four-cylinders at cruising speed or low revs. Audi tell us s ome engine configurations will equipped with new lightweight brake and power steering system, with electromechanical drive for improved fuel economy. Goes on sale in November 2014.
August 2014
Audi A7 TDI Ultra launched
Priced from £45,875 OTR, the latest, simplified A7 Sportback line-up combines enhanced EU6-compliant engines with styling revisions, new LED headlights and tail lights including ‘sweeping’ indicators, further improved interior decor and upgraded infotainment. The first examples are set to arrive with UK customers in the last quarter of 2014.
A particular highlight in the new line-up will undoubtedly be the A7 Sportback ultra, the first in this new range of overtly efficiency focused models to combine frugality worthy of the ultra badge with six cylinder power.
The heavily modified single-turbo 3.0-litre V6 is capable of returning an outstanding 60.1mpg, corresponding to 122g/km of CO2 and a seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission newly developed specifically for front-wheel-drive applications helps to maximise its 400Nm peak torque output and delivers keener response than the multitronic CVT transmission used by its closest predecessor. In the TDI ultra the 0-62mph sprint takes just 7.3 seconds on the way to a top speed of 149mph.
The 218PS V6 TDI engine is also available in the new range in conjunction with quattro permanent all-wheel-drive and seven-speed S tronic transmission, a configuration that is shared by the 272PS single-turbo V6 which slots in above it in the range. In the top TDI tier, the mighty 320PS twin turbo BiTDI channels its 650Nm via the eight-speed tiptronic automatic. As an alternative to diesel power, a supercharged six-cylinder petrol unit delivering 333PS and linked to the seven-speed S tronic transmission and quattro all-wheel-drive is also available.
First in line in the new order for the latest A7 Sportback is SE Executive specification, which replaces the Standard and SE options in the outgoing range. Highlights which elevate this comprehensive new trim level above its predecessors include all-weather LED headlights, sweeping rear indicators, 19-inch alloy wheels and deluxe four-zone automatic air conditioning. It also includes comforts such as heated and Milano leather-upholstered seats with electric adjustment, MMI navigation, Audi Music Interface, front and rear acoustic parking sensors and a powered tailgate, to name but a small proportion of the features.
S line specification is next in line, and is enhanced in the latest range by larger 20-inch alloy wheels (up from 19 inches), sweeping function indicators at the front and rear and Matrix LED headlights. Each of these advanced units features 25 separate LED bulbs which are individually dimmed when sensors detect oncoming or following traffic to automatically divert light around obstacles without the need to deactivate the high beam setting.
In a new departure for the A7 Sportback range, the sports suspension that is included as part of the S line specification can be ‘deselected’ in favour of standard suspension at no extra cost if required, and for an even greater focus on comfort the wheel size in this version can be dropped down to 19-inch, also at no cost. Inside, in another break with tradition, the normally black S line colour scheme can also now be replaced by a new Lunar silver colour option.
At the upper end of the range, Black Edition, S7 Sportback and RS 7 Sportback models also of course benefit from all the relevant styling and equipment enhancements.
What to watch out for
Problems with an Audi A7 Sportback over the first 8 months: At 400 miles the boot lock failed, then failed again at 1,700 miles after being replaced. Key then failed and wouldn't unlock or lock and car wouldn't start the car as all electrics went on shutdown. Car recovered to Stoke Audi. Subsequently steering 'froze' resulting in wheel damage. Stoke Audi found no problem. Then steering 'froze' again resulting in £5000 of damage to wheels and suspension. Again, Stoke Audi found no reason for this.
07-03-2015:Transmission of 2011 A7 Sportsback giving trouble. Gear changes not normal from third gear. Slams hard when re-accelerating in a traffic queue. Audi diagnosed need for new ECU, new Mechatronics and clutch pack.
12-04-2016:Report of panoramic sunroof of Audi A7 shattering. Cost £6,000 to replace. Owner lost £500 excess on his insurance. Thinks it's due to the fact the car is fitted with 21-inch wheels and a shock from hitting a pothole or road hump shattered the roof.
17-06-2016:S tronic transmission of Audi A7 failed. Car had been bought from a BMW dealer 7 months previously and dealer had replaced the transmission fluid with the wrong fluid, leading to the failure of the transmission. Audi dealer asking £10k to replace the transmission.
01-08-2016:Report of failure of S tronic transmission of 2010/60 reg Audi A7 quattro, purchased as an Approve Used Audi on 2-8-2014. SG60LSZ was initially taken into Audi Finchley Service Centre on 25 November 2015, following an amber warning light on the vehicle’s information display, which confirmed that there was a “gearbox malfunction, you may continue driving”. Investigation revealed that the main engine wiring loom, regulating valve and mechatronics should be replaced. It later transpired that contrary to the Audi service schedule the transmission fluid and filter had never been replaced and that this directly led to the failure of the transmission. After a long negotiation with the dealer, the invoice cost for repairs of £4,863.64 was reduced to £1,000, but owner still feels aggrieved.
23-01-2018:Audi has ordered by German Federal Motor Transport Agency (KBA) to recall 127,000 cars following the alleged discovery of emissions cheat devices. Affects Audi A4, A5, A6, A7, Q5, SQ5 and Q7 cars fitted with V6TDI diesel engines. According to German newspaper Bild am Sontag (BaS), KBA ordered these vehicles be recalled after detecting “unacceptable shut-off decides” on several new V6 diesel engines which meet current EU6 emissions standards.
08-05-2018:Deliveries of Audi A6 and A7 models with V6TDI diesel engines suspended after the German KBA found they emitted excessiver amounts of NOx in normal use. 60,000 more cars recalled.
01-10-2018:Engine failure reported in 2014 Audi Audi A7 3.0 BiTdi at 47,000 miles. In late November 2018 the Audi centre at Exeter diagnosed an EGR valve leak and started work only to find it wasn’t the valve nor the oil cooler but contrary to all previous assessment they found coolant in the sump oil indicating a tiny crack somewhere within the engine. Finding the crack would need thousands of pounds of further labour to dismantle the engine and the total to rectify ahead of doing that was indicated as a range of £6,000-£22,400. I told them to pause work. Audi Exeter have given full support with a courtesy car and Audi UK have a case manager tracking. Owner hoping to hold independent supplying dealer liable.
10-02-2019:Report of cracks appearing in engine of 54k mile 2014 Audi A7 3.0 BiTDi diesel quattro, leading to coolant mixing with engine oil. Audi has quoted £15,000 to supply and fit a new engine. Apparently only an Audi franchise can do this as special jigs are needed and the entire quattro suspension needs to be dropped out in order to do the work.
18-09-2019:Report of 2015 Audi A7 requiring a new steering rack at 50,000 miles at a cost of £2,600.
