2017 Audi A7: A Sophisticated Four-Door Coupe
The 2017 Audi A7 Sportback stands as a compelling choice in the luxury sedan market, blurring the lines between sleek coupe styling and practical four-door versatility. Its distinctive silhouette, refined interior, and potent performance make it a standout option for those seeking a blend of elegance, technology, and driving engagement.
Highlights
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Engine Options: The 2017 A7 offered a choice of two potent powertrains:
- 3.0L TFSI Supercharged V6: This engine, standard on most trims, delivered a robust 310 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. It provided brisk acceleration and a smooth, refined power delivery, making it suitable for both daily commuting and spirited driving.
- 3.0L TDI Clean Diesel V6: Available on the 3.0 TDI Premium Plus and Prestige trims, this diesel engine produced 240 horsepower and a substantial 428 lb-ft of torque. Its primary advantage was exceptional fuel efficiency, offering impressive range without significantly compromising performance, especially in terms of low-end grunt.
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Safety Features: The A7 was equipped with a suite of advanced safety technologies designed to protect occupants and assist the driver:
- Audi Pre Sense Basic: This system, when it detected an imminent collision, would automatically prepare the vehicle by closing windows, tightening seatbelts, and adjusting seats to the optimal position for airbag deployment.
- Audi Pre Sense Front: An integrated radar system that monitored the distance to vehicles ahead. If a potential collision was detected, it would alert the driver with visual and audible warnings. In some cases, it could also initiate partial braking to mitigate the severity of an impact.
- Optional Driver Assistance Package: This package further enhanced safety with features like:
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Automatically maintained a set distance from the vehicle ahead, adjusting speed as needed.
- Audi Side Assist: Monitored blind spots and provided visual alerts in the side mirrors if a vehicle was detected.
- Audi Pre Sense Rear: Worked in conjunction with Side Assist to prepare for potential rear-end collisions.
- Corner View Camera System: Offered enhanced visibility at intersections and low-speed maneuvers.
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Trim Summary: The 2017 Audi A7 was offered in three distinct trim levels, each building upon the previous one:
- Premium: This entry-level trim still offered a luxurious experience, featuring standard amenities like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a power-operated tailgate.
- Premium Plus: Stepping up, the Premium Plus added significant upgrades including ventilated front seats, Bose® premium sound system, keyless entry with push-button start, and Audi's advanced MMI Navigation plus system.
- Prestige: The top-tier Prestige trim represented the pinnacle of A7 luxury, incorporating features like a head-up display, ambient interior lighting, ventilated front seats with massage function, and a Bang & Olufsen® Advanced Sound System for an unparalleled auditory experience.
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Other Notable Aspects:
- Sportback Design: The signature "Sportback" silhouette, with its sloping roofline and integrated rear spoiler, gives the A7 a distinctive and athletic appearance, setting it apart from more conventional sedans.
- Quattro All-Wheel Drive: Standard on all 2017 A7 models, Audi's renowned Quattro all-wheel-drive system provided exceptional traction and stability in various driving conditions, enhancing both performance and safety.
- Spacious Cargo Area: Despite its coupe-like profile, the A7's hatchback design offered a surprisingly versatile and spacious cargo area, making it more practical than many of its rivals.
- Refined Interior: The A7's cabin was a testament to Audi's commitment to quality, featuring high-end materials, excellent craftsmanship, and a driver-focused layout.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 Audi A7 is generally characterized by a premium and sophisticated experience. Drivers can anticipate a car that is both comfortable for long journeys and engaging to drive on winding roads. The supercharged V6 offers a pleasing blend of performance and refinement, while the TDI diesel provides impressive fuel economy for those prioritizing range.
Maintenance: As with most luxury vehicles, maintenance costs for the A7 can be higher than for mainstream brands. Regular scheduled maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks, will be crucial. Audi vehicles often recommend specific synthetic oils and fluids, which can contribute to the overall cost. It's advisable to find a reputable Audi specialist or dealership for servicing to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the vehicle. Timing belt replacements (if applicable to the specific engine) or chain maintenance will be a significant service item at higher mileage intervals.
Insurance: Insurance premiums for the 2017 Audi A7 are likely to be above average due to its luxury classification, advanced technology, and potentially higher repair costs in case of an accident. Factors like your driving record, location, and chosen coverage levels will significantly influence the actual cost. It's recommended to obtain quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best coverage at a competitive rate.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Audi A7 is a highly desirable vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- Rear Seat Space: Due to its sloping roofline and sportback design, the rear headroom can be somewhat compromised for taller passengers compared to traditional sedans. While comfortable for most, exceptionally tall individuals might find it a bit snug on longer journeys.
- Infotainment System Complexity (Early MMI): While Audi's MMI (Multi Media Interface) system was generally well-regarded, early iterations could sometimes present a learning curve for users not accustomed to its menu structure and controls. However, the 2017 model featured a more refined and user-friendly version compared to earlier generations.
- Ride Firmness (Depending on Wheels/Suspension): While the A7 offers a comfortable ride, models equipped with larger wheels or the optional sport suspension might exhibit a slightly firmer ride, which could be perceived as less comfortable on rougher road surfaces by some drivers.
- Visibility Out the Rear: The stylish, raked rear window, while contributing to the A7's unique look, can slightly reduce rearward visibility compared to vehicles with more upright rear glass. This is often mitigated by the standard backup camera and available parking sensors.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Audi A7 Sportback is an exceptional luxury vehicle that masterfully blends captivating styling with practical functionality. Its distinctive silhouette, potent engine options, sophisticated interior, and standard Quattro all-wheel drive make it a highly appealing choice for those seeking a premium driving experience. With a strong emphasis on technology and safety, the A7 delivers a refined and engaging ownership proposition, although potential buyers should consider the slightly reduced rear headroom and the typical luxury vehicle ownership costs. It remains a compelling option for anyone desiring a sophisticated, stylish, and performance-oriented four-door coupe.