Introduction
The Audi A7 is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful cars on sale right now, and the S7 adds immense power and agility to the equation to make one of the most impressive automotive packages. It majors on comfort and luxury for four people while providing effortless power from a twin-turbocharged V8 engine and tenacious grip from Audi's trademark Quattro all-wheel drive system. It even has a spacious hatchback.
The S7 is available in one loaded trim level, Prestige. The engine is a 4.0-liter V8 with two turbos producing 420 horsepower and sending it to all four wheels through a seven-speed dual clutch automated manual transmission.
There are available option packages, including a Cold Weather Package with heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel, while the Comfort Seating pack adds 22-way adjustable front seats with ventilation and massage settings and premium leather trim. The Driver Assistance Package includes power folding mirrors, adaptive cruise control, collision warning and lane departure assist, while the Innovation Package adds that and night vision and active park assist.
The Mercedes-Benz CLS550 is an even more stylish four-door coupe with solid build and a thunderous V8, but it can be very expensive and it isn't as practical. Neither is the BMW 640i Gran Coupe, but it does have a strong inline six cylinder turbo and a beautiful interior. The Porsche Panamera is more sporting, but its looks are questionable, the base V6 not terribly strong and basic options cost a small fortune. The Jaguar XF may not have the same swooping roofline but it's still very attractive, has a space for a fifth passenger in a refined interior and offers a storming supercharged V8.
The S7, then, is a practical proposition for someone looking to take three passengers in speed and comfort, while offering a tremendous driving experience and making a styling statement.
Which Style To Buy?
2013 Audi S7 4.0T Prestige
The sole S7 trim comes lavishly equipped. Prestige includes desirable features such as automatic, adaptive xenon headlamps with LED running lights, LED tail lights, auto-dimming mirrors, power tailgate, adaptive rear spoiler, 19-inch alloy wheels on summer tires, four-zone automatic climate control, power adjustable tilt and telescoping steering wheel, wood inlays, LED ambient lights, sunroof, quilted leather sport seats, 12-way power heated front seats, color trip computer, 14-speaker Bose audio system, Audi MMI interface with navigation, Audi Connect, HD radio, satellite radio and traffic information, Bluetooth, iPod integration, backup camera with parking sensors, automatic wipers and Audi Drive select. The Driver Assistance Package includes power-folding mirrors, adaptive cruise control, lane departure assist and collision warning. The Innovation Package includes the Driver Assistance features along with night vision and an active parking system. The Cold Weather Package includes heated rear seats and steering wheel, while the Comfort Seating Package adds 22-way power front seats with massage and ventilation settings and premium leather upholstery. A Bang & Olufsen audio system is also available.
Best Alternatives
2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS550
Gutsy V8 and imposing styling, but much more expensive than the Audi when comparably equipped
2013 BMW 640 Gran Coupe
Lots of options and good handling, but lacks all-wheel drive and turbo six-cylinder isn't as strong as V8.
2013 Porsche Panamera
Better handling with higher badge prestige, but cockpit is snug for four, looks aren't to everyone's tastes and it's significantly more expensive.
2013 Jaguar XF
Well-equipped with sumptuous interior that's able to seat up to 5, but isn't quite as striking as four-door coupes.