The 2012 Audi A7 is the newest member of the Audi family, making its debut this year. The 2012 A7 is a true segment-blending vehicle, as it combines the practicality of a five-door hatchback body style with the gently sloping roofline of a coupe, not much different from the class-defining Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class sedan. The A7 is a great mix between sport and luxury, and like other Audi models, it is jam-packed with technology.
This five-door hatchback is powered by a supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard Quattro all-wheel drive. Audi claims the vehicle is as thrilling to drive as it is to look at.
The interior of the 2012 Audi A7 is world-class. The design is elegant, as a "wraparound" line encircles the driver and passenger, which is complemented by premium materials, colors, and wood veneers. The center console is driver-oriented, providing easier access and allowing him to focus on the road ahead.
The A7 features Audi's latest version of the MMI controls with an eight-inch pop-up display, five-inch LCD for driver, and optional head-up display. MMI allows the driver to enter navigation and telephone information via handwriting recognition. It also serves as the interface with the industry-first Audi-connect system that uses Google Earth navigation. Look out Mercedes-Benz, you finally have some true competition for the CLS550 and CLS63 AMG.
The Range
Body Style: Hatchback
Engine: Supercharged 3.0L, V-6
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Models: Premium, Premium plus, Prestige
What's New
The Audi A7 makes its highly anticipated debut in 2012. It features an industry-first MMI touch that allows the driver to enter navigation and telephone information via handwriting recognition. Also, the rear hatch is equipped with a height-adjustable power-lift system that opens with the touch of a button. The A7 is equipped with a Bang & Olufsen sound system with 15 speakers. The A7 rides on 18-inch wheels, but if you're looking for something bigger, Audi offers 19 and 20-inch wheels.
Exterior
The 2012 Audi A7 is essentially a coupe-like five-door hatchback, which results in the vehicle having a sleek, sporty look. It features a low roofline and integrated rear doors that give it its coupe-like silhouette. This vehicle is 195.6 inches long, and has a 114.7 inch wheelbase. The A7 is a wide vehicle at 84.2 inches, and its low air inlets and horizontal struts only make it appear wider. The 18-inch wheels polish off this futuristic-looking vehicle.
Interior
The main feature of the 2012 Audi A7's interior is its "wraparound" design that encircles the driver and front passenger. The center console is driver-oriented and for optimal comfort level, the front seats are 10-way adjustable, and have available four-way lumbar support, three-stage ventilation, and three-stage heating. Two different types of leather are offered for the A7; Milano or Valcona. Whichever you choose will coordinate with the four-spoke steering wheel and transmission lever.
Performance & Handling
The 2012 Audi A7 receives more than adequate power from its supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. This allows the A7 to sprint from 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds, pretty fast for a car this size. It uses an eight-speed automatic transmission that results in a balance of decent acceleration and fuel economy. All A7 models are equipped with Quattro all-wheel drive, which makes the handling on this car better than average despite its loose steering.
Safety
The A7 is a true product of Audi's commitment to safety. It is equipped with six airbags, and the strong floor and tunnel structure absorbs impact. The Audi head restraint system helps prevent whiplash caused from rear-end collisions. Numerous options are offered to increase the safety of both yourself and others. Audi offers adaptive cruise control, as well as night vision assistant that identifies pedestrians and provides their silhouettes in the display to alert the driver.
EPA Fuel Economy
Audi A7: 18 mpg city/ 28 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Sporty exterior
- Adequate power
- Sophisticated interior
- High-class technology
You Won't Like
A bit pricey
Sum Up
Sedan Prestige with wagon functionality.
If You Like This Vehicle
- Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
- BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo
- Jaguar XF