New (sports) chapter: Introducing the Audi A7 Sportback

The Prologue study was unveiled by Audi at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show. With this, they hinted at what a new representative of the Gran Turismo class might look like. As befits such a representative, the study exuded dynamic lines and advanced technology, as well as spaciousness of the passenger compartment and easy access.

But fortunately, the scenario, which was repeated many times at Audi, did not repeat itself. The new A7 Sportback is very similar in design to the aforementioned studies, which means it has retained the basic design lines. Thus, it looks fresh, extremely dynamic, technological and spatially luxurious. As befits such a car.

The design brings a new design language that Audi continues the language presented in the Prologue study. Some elements of the latter have already been used by the Germans in the new A8, such as large smooth surfaces, sharp edges and sporty sleek and taut lines. However, the A7 Sportback is a sportier car, so it boasts a lower and wider front end, narrower headlights and larger and visually accentuated fresh air vents. We must not lose sight of the brand new headlights, and buyers will be able to present them in three different configurations, and already in the basic LED headlights, the 12 lighting systems will be elegantly separated by narrow intermediate spaces. The upgraded variant will offer a choice of Matrix LED headlights, as well as the latest high-definition Matrix LED headlights with laser illumination. Although shorter than its predecessor, the new Audi A7 Sportback boasts a longer wheelbase and, as a result, shorter overhangs, which, of course, contributes to more space in the car. This time, Audi has made a special effort with the rear of the car. It was the biggest target of various "hotel disputes" with its predecessor, as it operated somewhat unfinished. Audi was a little more careful with the new one. It is still in demand on yachts, but the long trunk lid is now more refined, including a spoiler or air deflector that automatically increases speeds in excess of 120 kilometers per hour.

But the new Audi A7 Sportback impresses with more than its looks. The interior also deserves special attention. According to Audi, this is a combination of design and cutting-edge technology, and we really cannot dispute anything. The horizontal lines and the slender instrument panel, slightly angled towards the driver, are impressive. The Germans say they were guided by four core values: dynamism, sportiness, intuition and quality. Customers will also have access to new upholstery materials, new colors and a variety of decorative elements.

Of course, the star of the new A7 Sportback is the central 10,1-inch screen, assisted by another 8,6-inch one that controls climate, navigation and text input. When turned off, they are completely invisible due to their black lacquer look, but when we open the car door, they shine in all their glory. Audi wanted to offer them ease of use, so the screens now offer advanced controls - two-level pressure sensitivity, which the system confirms with a beep, like in some mobile phones.

And the technology doesn't end there. The AI system includes a remotely controlled parking and garage pilot, with which it will be possible to control the car with only a key or smartphone. Otherwise, in addition to the AI system in the new A7 Sportback, there will be 39 different driver assistance systems.

Audi promises a flawless chassis, excellent handling and advanced motorization. The engines will be connected to a mild hybrid system (MHEV) with six-cylinder engines powered by a 48-volt mains supply.

The new Audi A7 Sportback is expected to hit the road next spring.

text: Sebastian PlevnyakPhoto: Sebastian Plevnyak, Audi