While some writers have been quick to question the new A7 Sportback's relevance, the stylishly swept lines of Audi's new super-hatch are certain to appeal to those tired of another staid sedan or uninteresting estate car.
Ergo, the four-seat A7 Sportback is not only a statement in design, but equally a practical and versatile luxury family car. It's also a righteous rival to BMW's 5 Series GT, Mercedes-Benz CLS or perhaps even the Porsche Panamera.
Launched in Australia this week -- and in dealerships nationally from this weekend -- the A7 Sportback arrives with Audi's sparkling 3.0 TFSI direct injected and supercharged V6 petrol engine, or torquey 3.0 TDI V6 turbodiesel, a capacious 1390-litre cargo bay (535-litres with seats in place), and myriad of up-to-the-minute driver aids, safety equipment and infotainment wizardry.
Driving all four wheels via a seven-speed automatic transmission – complete with centre differential from the marque's fire breathing RS5 Coupe – the all-new A7 Sportback offers not only practicality but impressive performance too. Developing 220kW/440Nm, the petrol-powered model is capable of sprinting from standstill to 100km/h in just 5.6 seconds. The diesel variant delivers 180kW/500Nm and covers the same dash in 6.5 seconds.
Not to be labelled irresponsible, A7 Sportback returns a very respectable combined fuel economy average of 8.2L/100km in petrol guise, and in diesel an even more impressive 6.0L/100km. CO2 emissions are 190g/km and 158g/km respectively.
Beneath that curvy roof, A7 Sportback is loaded with features including a satellite navigation system, internet hotspot facility, head-up display, infra-red night vision, Bluetooth audio and telephony connectivity and the usual gamut of electronic trickery.
Visit the Carsales Network again soon for more on the all-new Audi A7 Sportback.
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