Overview

For those looking for an Audi A7 with more power, the German manufacturer offers a high performance variant of the four-door coupe – the S7. It joins the long line of S models and is fitted with a new 4.0-litre TFSI twin-turbo V8 engine, the same engine that powers the 2012 S6 model. Producing 450hp and 550Nm of pulling power, the raw pace of the Audi S7 is impressive and will power the car from 0-62mph in just 4.6 seconds.

This is all kept in check with the Audi Quattro four-wheel-drive system. This means the power never feels too much for the car and there is plenty of grip, while at higher speeds a rear spoiler extends to give the car further stability. It’s also fitted with the seven-speed S Tronic automatic gearbox, found right across the firm’s range, and the super-quick gear changes add to the rather impressive performance.

There’s two trim levels available, standard S7 or S7 Black Edition, with both benefitting from exceptionally-high standard equipment levels.

These include Adaptive air suspension and Audi drive select – which allows the driver to choose between Auto, Comfort, Dynamic, Efficiency and Individual – are fitted as standard, and gives a good balance between refined motorway cruising and precise sharp handling on more engaging B roads. In spite of the blistering power, it’s more about the substance than the style, and there are few indicators to show this off as a high-performance model.

The car gets some additional S and V8 T badges while the single-frame grille, front bumper, side mirrors rear bumper, diffuser and exhaust pipes further highlight the top-of-the-range position of the car.

While the majority of the focus may be on performance, a hybrid aluminium constructed body, stop/start system and cylinder-on-demand technology – which cuts the amount of cylinders being used at speeds of at least 15mph and in 3rd gear or above – means a claimed average fuel economy of 29.1mpg, which is pretty good for a high-performance car that’s nearly five metres long.

There are some strong rivals for the Audi S7 to outmuscle, however. As well as the Mercedes-Benz CLS, the Porsche Panamera and BMW 5 Series GT pose a major threat to the German manufacturer’s attempt. To see how the range-topping four-door coupe fares, read the full Audi S7 review.