Audi already has a comprehensive range of cars, so do we really need the latest A7?
Luxury car sales have taken a battering of late, but believe it or not, they are making a comeback. Order books for big executive motors are beginning to fill again, as our captains of industry can no longer put off replacing their aging transport. A7, as the name implies, is at the higher end of the Audi range. It is a five-seater but really designed with four adults in mind. It has a stunning exterior that, when fitted with the optional lower sports suspension and 20-inch alloys, looks breathtaking in the 'flesh'.
My test car is the Audi A7 3.0TDi Quatrtro S-Tronic - in other words it's a powerful three-litre diesel with four-wheel drive and a fancy automatic gearbox. It is a stunning car to look at and a serious rival to the Mercedes CLS. Outside the low, wide bonnet and LED signature daytime running lights give the A7 a sporty and imposing road presence. The side view is more Lexus GS/Jaguar XF in looks and perhaps the least appealing viewing angle, as this is a five-door hatchback not a two-door coupé.
The rear end is unusual as it is slopes. On top of the hatchback is a pop-up, TT-like spoiler that rises automatically at high speed and can also be raised and lowered by pressing a dash-mounted button. The low roofline means you need to be careful entering the car to avoid banging your head but once in you will love the driving experience.
You'll forgive the dark, black dashboard with its chrome trimmings as the dash itself is set quite low. The upgraded leather steering wheel on my test car contains the familiar Audi multi-function buttons and, of course, gearshift paddles for manual selection. Audi's MMi controls (multi media interface) fall easy to hand also.
Another favourite option fitted is the 'Night Vision Assistant'. This identifies heat sources like pedestrians or animals especially well in darkness using a forward-looking camera. In turn, the image is displayed between the speedometer and rev counter dials. It's not a first in a posh car but nice all the same.
On the road the suspension and huge alloys can at times provide a harsh ride on our nation's rutted back roads but on the whole the A7 feels composed and sporty - perfect for those business people who aren't quite ready for an A8. The Quattro drivetrain gives excellent traction from a standing start and is very reassuring on slippery road surfaces.
The only downside is the amount of rear headroom, which is fine for those of average height but six footers and above won't like the back seats. It's a small price to pay for such an elegant car.
With a starting price in Ireland of €62,010 for the 2.8-litre FSi (204bhp V6 petrol engine), Quattro S-Tronic A7 is clearly aimed at the luxury end of the market. My sensible V6 diesel starts at €66,900, while the petrol 3-litre TFSi (300bhp V6 turbo) is €73,000. With a few extras thrown in on my test car, the A7 comes in at €87,250 (Audi does know how to charge for optional extras!).
So, to answer the question: Do we need the A7? I'd have to say yes - it's brilliant, a little indulgent and really enjoyable to drive.
Michael Sheridan
