What's a performance 5-door coupe? If you don't know, just ask Audi, since they're the only ones to have a hatch on their flagship sleek car, the A7. They've even launched a mild performance versions in the S7, which has now received a facelift to keep Ingolstadt talking for days.
First revealed in 2011, the S7 is a rival to the CLS 500 or the 650i version of the BMW 6er, only with a bit more zing. Keeping up with those cars is hard work, so the S7 is fitted with a V8 engine with twin turbocharging and all the latest go-fast bells and whistles. While the output stopped at just 420 hp up till now, Audi decided to boost that number, giving the S7 Sportback a sharper edge. The 4-liter engine thus now makes 450horsepower. The power continues to be sent out to a permanent quattro all-wheel drive system via S tronic twin-clutch gearbox. While the standard setup might be good enough for most, the S7 Sportback can also be ordered with adaptive air suspension for a more relaxing ride when desired.
The efficiency of the engine has also increased, partly due to the introduction of Cylinder on Demand (COD) technology, which cuts fuel to half of the V8 when under light loads. Combined fuel consumption has dropped from 9.7 l/100 to 9.3 (25.3 US mpg). In line with Euro 6 regulations, CO2 emissions have also been lowered from 225 to 215 grams per kilometers.
Prices in Germany have just been set at €82,300, which is €1450 more than the outgoing model. This is down to the LED headlights, which are now offered as standard. Additionally, Matrix technology can be added as an option. This not only stop glare but also add dynamic turn signals that form a wave pattern.
Since we're on the subject of cosmetic changes, we'll have to admit that the S7 has not changed as much as the A7, which is a bit of a disappointment. Audi has left the grill looking basically the same, which somehow detract from the wow-factor of this 5-meter long coupe.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News