Powerful upgrade for Audi A7

Audi has released details of the forthcoming new A7, a car which the company says it has spared no effort in revising.

The five-door coupe is now even more powerful and attractive — thanks to new engine configurations, transmissions, taillights and infotainment systems.

Originally seen back in 2010, the long engine hood, sporty, flowing C-pillars and the sharply dropping rear end create a dynamic overall impression. The revised version of the five-door model, measuring 4.97 metres in length, now has additional striking, sporty features.

The most obvious changes are to the single frame grille, bumpers, tailpipes and headlights. LED technology is now standard and an option will be Matrix LED headlights, which light the road optimally without causing glare for other road users. Dynamic turn signals are also installed at the front; they come standard at the rear.

On the engine front Audi is offering the new A7 with a choice of five engines: two petrol and three diesel units. The top-of-the-range engine, the 4.0 TFSI, is available in the Audi S7 Sportback. It delivers 450 bhp of power and uses innovative (cylinder on demand technology.

In the versions with front­wheel drive, the dual-clutch transmission S-Tronic has been fully redeveloped, replacing the Multitronic. In engine configurations starting at 272 bhp, quattro permanent all-wheel drive can be supplemented with the sport differential, which actively distributes power between the rear wheels.

The Audi drive select dynamic handling system is standard. Options include dynamic steering, two sport suspension versions and adaptive air suspension; on the S7, the air suspension has a firmer setup.

The new Audi A7 will be at dealerships in Ireland from October.