Audi S7 2012 Review

Audi has added appeal to its big four-door A7 coupe by developing a high-performance S7 to the range. The German marque has long been regarded as a big mover in fast cars in its home market and its products are regular residents of the fast lane on the country’s high-speed motorways.

DESIGN

The bold grille, big wheels and added details in the luxurious cabin leave no doubt this is the high-performance version of Audi’s biggest coupe.

TECHNOLOGY

Now the Audi S7 is available for the throng of happy drivers over there. Though decent speeds are not possible in Australia, buyers here will appreciate the extra urge from the tuned V8 engine and the sporting feel given by dynamic suspension and steering settings.

Audi is using an all-new version of its efficient twin-turbo V8 engine to power the S7. The V8 drives through a seven-speed double-clutch automatic transmission.

The chassis dynamics are offered in several stages by courtesy of a sophisticated electronic air suspension system so the driver can opt – by way of the MMI infotainment system – for the ideal setup for their personal mood and the condition of the road.

DRIVING

Our initial test drives in the hinterland behind Queensland’s Sunshine Coast showed the sleek big four-door sports coupe to have plenty of engine power and an abundance of road grip.

The S7’s scintillating performance is backed up by an engine note that’s great to listen to and on more than one occasion we found ourselves slowing down and dropping the transmission down a few gears so we could enjoy the push in the back acceleration and the quality of engine sound.

The double-clutch gearbox wasn’t happy at very slow traffic speeds when Sport was selected, but performed beautifully in the normal setting. So if you’re out for an enthusiastic drive, make sure to juggle between the two settings when you reach town.

VERDICT

The new high-performance Audi coupe is pretty well priced and seems sure to attract those looking for an excellent blend of sporty and elegant motoring.

Audi S7 Sportback

Price: from $179,900
Warranty: 3 years with unlimited kilometres
Engine: twin-turbo V8, 309kW/550Nm
Thirst: 9.6L/100km