Test drive Audi A7 50 TDI quattro: express to the future

Test of the new generation of an elite model from Ingolstadt

Its predecessor is still considered one of the most beautiful Audi models, and the new generation A7 Sportback adds an even more impressive array of modern technologies to the range.

In fact, at the first meeting with the new edition of the A7, we get the feeling that we have before us our good old friend, albeit a little changed. Yes, now the radiator grille is more dominant, and the sharp corners and edges in the design are sharper, but the silhouette of the elegant four-door coupe is almost one hundred percent preserved. Which should not be taken for granted as a drawback – on the contrary, because the A7 is one of the most elegant models created by the brand with four emblem rings, and its new generation looks even more refined than its predecessor.

However, the resemblance to the previous model disappears as soon as you get behind the wheel. Instead of classic buttons, switches and analog devices, we are surrounded by many screens, some of which are touch-sensitive and tactile. The most important driving data is projected onto the windshield directly in the driver's field of view using the head-up display, even a familiar element such as the lighting control unit has been replaced by a small touchscreen. This is what Audi aims for full digitalization.

Thanks to high-quality displays with excellent contrast, which react almost instantly, the interior acquires a special futuristic charm. However, the truth is that working with most of the features takes time to get used to and is distracting. Take for example the Head-up display control: to change its brightness, you must first go to the main menu, then to the "Settings" sub-menu, then give the command "Back", then "Indicators", etc. - then you will be taken to "Head-up display". Here you need to scroll down until you get to the brightness adjustment option and press Plus as many times as needed to achieve your desired brightness. The menus are logical enough, however, and most of them become relatively easy to control with voice commands.

Fortunately, at least a three-liter TDI with 286 hp. starts with a button, not a voice command or digging through a menu. Move the joystick to shift the transmission to D and start. The A7 Sportback impresses from the outset with its extremely high level of suspension comfort and sound insulation. Air suspension and double acoustic glazing take you virtually away from the outside world, and the A7 maintains impeccable manners, even on rough roads.

Coasting at speeds up to 160

The interior becomes even quieter when the engine is automatically switched off when driving without traction at speeds up to 160 km/h. . With a maximum torque of 8,3 Nm on its V100, the big four-door coupe easily accelerates from 620 to 6 in 5,6 seconds. However, when pulling away hard and accelerating, the TDI takes a second to think before using it. your full thrust. Despite the presence of a 0-volt on-board network, Audi does not use a fast-acting electric compressor here, as is the case with the SQ100. Thanks to an innovative all-wheel drive system, the almost five-meter machine shoots amazingly dexterously even in tight and tight turns, with virtually no lateral tilt. However, there are cars in this category that are much easier and more direct to drive. And this should not surprise anyone, because when measuring the weight of the A48, a serious 7 kilograms were taken into account, which determines its more confident-comfortable than sporty character.

CONCLUSION

+ Excellent sound insulation, very good ride comfort, heavy-duty diesel engine, plenty of interior space, comfortable seats, many auxiliary systems, rich connectivity, powerful brakes

– Perceptible thinking when accelerating from low revs, very heavy, engine a little noisy at full load, function control requires full concentration, high cost

Text: Dirk Gulde

Photo: Ahim Hartmann