THIS IS OUR first proper look at the 2018 Audi A7 Sportback.
The four-door executive class Sportback combines the sleek lines of a classic grand tourer with the more practical attributes of Saloon and Avant models.
The exterior design of the A7 Sportback highlights the new design that also features on the new A8. However, the single-frame grille is actually wider and lower than that of the A8 and those narrow headlights feature HD Matrix LED technology with Audi laser light.
The cabin has been built following a reduced, clean design language, with an emphasis on horizontal lines and a sleek instrument panel creating a feeling of airy spaciousness, again, much like the bigger A8.
There is a 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit behind the steering wheel and two large touchscreens take up most of the centre console.
The driver controls the infotainment system from the upper screen, with the lower one providing access to the climate control system, comfort functions and text input.
The car also features something called intelligent conversation, meaning the driver can activate an array of functions using a new, natural form of voice control.
The A7 is also equipped with some Level 3 autonomous driving functions, but they won’t be available to drivers until next year. The Audi AI autonomous driving technology in the A7 include AI remote parking pilot and AI remote garage pilot, which autonomously steer the car into and out of a parking space or a garage, while the manoeuvre is monitored by the driver, either inside or outside the car.
In addition to the Audi AI systems, the new A7 Sportback features a total of 39 driver assistance systems to make daily use easier for the driver.
From launch the A7 will be available with a 340hp 3.0-litre TFSI V6 petrol engine with 500Nm of torque which is paired with a seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission. This V6 engine operates in conjunction with a water-cooled belt alternator starter (BAS) and a lithium-ion battery which form the nerve centre of the 48-volt electrical system. This mild hybrid technology enables engine-off coasting and energy recuperation.
The coasting function works from 55 to 160km/h – when the driver’s foot is taken off the accelerator the engine shuts off whenever possible for up to 40 seconds to save fuel. Once the throttle is pressed the engine is activated without any delays in acceleration. The new hybrid system is said to improve fuel economy.
Additional six and four-cylinder engines, both petrol and diesel, will follow shortly after the start of production.
The 0-100km/h time is a quick 5.3 seconds and the A7 Sportback has a top speed of 250km/h.
The all-new A7 will launch on the Irish market in late February 2018.
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