Audi continues its wave of presentations. A week after driving the new A8, yesterday we got to know the new Audi A7 − the second generation of a model first launched in 2010.
A model that consistently repeats in this generation many of the solutions and technologies introduced in the new A8. On an aesthetic level, the scenario is identical. There is a lot of news, but we decided to summarize it in five essential points. Let's do it?
1. Closer than ever to the Audi A8
Since its launch in 2010, the Audi A7 has always been seen as a sportier looking A6 − we like to see Audi taking a risk again. In this generation, Audi decided to level it up, and applied to the A7 many of the ingredients we found in the A8.
The result is in sight. A more robust and technological looking sedan, with Porsche “airs” in the rear. The silhouette, on the other hand, maintains the identity of the previous generation, in a sub-segment that was debuted by the Mercedes-Benz CLS and later joined by the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé.
At the front, the highlight goes to the HD Matrix LED system, which combines laser and LED headlights. Technological? A lot (and expensive too…).
2. Technology and more technology
Once again… Audi A8 everywhere! Audi's virtual cockpit system has been extended across the entire dashboard and now appears on generously sized screens in the center console, taking the Audi MMI (Multi Media Interface) system to a new level.
As an example, the climate control system is now controlled through one of these screens − which, similarly to smartphones, vibrates to the touch to give the sensation of a physical button.
3. Towards autonomous driving level 4
Five video cameras, five radar sensors, 12 ultrasonic sensors and a laser sensor. We are not talking about an intercontinental missile, we are talking about information collection systems for the Audi AI remote parking pilot, Audi AI remote garage pilot and level 3 semi-autonomous driving system.
Thanks to these systems, it will be possible to park the Audi A7 using a smartphone, among other features.
4. 48V system again
Debuted on the Audi SQ7, the 48V system is once again present in a model of the brand. It is this parallel electrical system that is responsible for supplying all the technology present in the A7. Steering rear axle engines, suspensions, driving assistance systems, etc.
You can find out more about this system here and here.
5. Available engines
So far only one version has been announced, the 55 TFSI. Have no idea what “55” means? Then. We're also not yet used to Audi's new names. But check out this article that explains how to interpret this “German salad” of numbers.
In practice, this is a 3.0 V6 TFSI engine with 340hp and 500 Nm of torque. This engine, combined with a seven-speed S-Tronic gearbox, announces a consumption of 6.8 liters/100 km (NEDC cycle). In the coming weeks, the remaining family of engines that will equip the new Audi A7 will be known.