Revised Audi A7 and S7 break cover

Audi has officially revealed its updated A7 and S7 models ahead of an expected mid-year global launch.

The revised A7 gains improved engines, transmissions, infotainment systems and cosmetic changes, including the clean diesel V6 engine reported recently.

At the pinnacle of the range is the S7, which is now powered by a 331kW V8 displacing 4.0 litres and offering CoD (Capacity on Demand) technology to conserve fuel. Despite the 'bahn burner's potent output, the combined-cycle fuel consumption figure is officially 9.3L/100km and CO2 emissions are rated at 215g/km.

Chief among the changes to the A7 would be the adoption of Matrix LED headlights introduced locally on the A8 range earlier this month. Externally, the updated A7 can be identified by changes to the single-frame grille, bumpers, exhaust pipes and the adoption of dynamic indicators and new, LED headlights (with the Matrix system upgrade available optionally). In overall length the A7 measures 4.97 metres, and boasts a luggage capacity of 535 litres without folding the rear seats flat.

Audi designers have opted for new materials inside the A7 – such as an aluminium/Beaufort walnut inlay combination and Valcona leather. Colours are new and can be specified individually throughout the interior – including the seats, which can also be optioned up with ventilation and massage features. Additionally, the seats can be ordered in any one of four different types.

Featuring graphics processing technology from Nvidia, the MMI infotainment system gains 'touchpad control' for easy scrolling and zooming through lists and maps displayed. Internet connectivity is courtesy of LTE high-speed data transmission, and the driver's mobile phone can receive and send signals wirelessly via the car's antenna.

The A7 offers a choice of five different Euro 6-compliant engines – two direct-injection petrol units and three turbo-diesels. An 'Ultra' version of the clean diesel 3.0-litre V6 produces 160kW, but manages a fuel consumption figure as low as 4.7L/100km and CO2 emissions of 122g/km. This engine is only offered in a front-wheel drive variant of the A7.

The diesel V6 is also available in a 200kW version – with quattro all-wheel drive – and an uprated version mustering 235kW. Both the quattro models are available with Audi's sport differential too. An eight-speed automatic transmission is the sole transmission offering with the 235kW engine; the lesser diesel variants come with a seven-speed S tronic (dual-clutch) transmission that replaces previous front-wheel drive models' Multitronic transmission (CVT).

Wheels for the new A7 range run the spectrum from 17 to 21 inches. Certain variants, Audi advises, will be equipped with a lightweight brake package.

In contrast with the A7, the S7 has a recalibrated suspension tune for its airbag set-up, and the Audi Drive Select dynamic handling system is offered as standard. The Night Vision Assist system has been improved for safe driving after dark in A7 and S7 models.

Prices in Europe will start from €51,300 for the A7, and top out at €82,300 for the S7. Audi will reveal more about the range closer to local launch during the first quarter of next year, but Australia will see a three-model range comprising the 160kW diesel at entry level, the 235kW diesel quattro and the S7.

Pictures show S7 (blue) and A7 (silver)