The Audi Sportback concept revealed at the Detroit Auto Show this year.
AUDI HAS THIS WEEK revealed new information on its upcoming A7 four-door coupe and cabrio. Production is likely to begin towards the end of 2010, which would see the first examples of the A7 hitting the road in early 2011.
While Audi boss Rupert Stadler would not be drawn on an exact launch date, details concerning the A7’s engine, gearbox and suspension systems have been revealed.
Beginning with the base model A7, a 152kW (204hp) 2.8 litre V6 and a 223kW (300hp) supercharged 3.0 litre V6 engine will be on offer.
From there, buyers can step up to S7 trim, which will see a 294kW (394hp) 4.0 litre V8 fitted as standard equipment. The range-topping RS7 will leave the lesser models behind with its 373kW (500hp) 5.0 litre twin turbo V10.
Reports suggest that a diesel-electric hybrid engine may also appear on the options list, though a petrol-electric could take its place.
Transmission options will consist of a six-speed manual and eight-speed auto in the less powerful models, while a seven-speed dual clutch gearbox is expected to appear in the S7 and RS7 models.
Audi’s Quattro AWD system is expected to come as standard with European models to have RWD also on offer. Audi’s torque-vectoring system may also be a feature.
Traditional spring-based suspension has been relegated to the parts bin, with an air-suspension setup to take its place.
With sales expected to top no more than 40,000, the major benefit of the A7 to Audi will come in the way of improved perception of the brand. Expect the A7 to cater for premium buyers seeking a car with ‘presence’ and performance in equal measure.
Official pricing and imagery is yet to be seen, but we can gain an insight into the design direction from the Audi Sportback concept images in the gallery below.
Expect further information to trickle out of Ingolstadt in the next 18 months.
