Second-Gen Audi A7 Gets New Look, Advanced Tech

Audi AG’s all-new A7 fastback sedan is loaded with advanced technology features, including a 48-volt mild-hybrid power system, all-wheel steering, remote parking and other automated driving systems.

Due early next year in Europe, the second-generation A7 will be publicly unveiled at the Los Angeles auto show in November. U.S. sales are expected to start in the second half of 2018.

Audi says 39 driver assistant systems will be offered as standard or optional equipment, many of which are included in the carmaker’s SAE Level 3 Traffic Jam Pilot package. To enable the various automated steering, braking and throttle functions, the sedan will be equipped with as many as five radar sensors, five cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors and a laser scanner.

The all-new A7 rides on Volkswagen Group's MLB platform, which also carries Audi’s flagship A8 sedan and Q7 and Q5 SUVs. A mix of aluminum and high-strength steel are used throughout the body to reduce weight.

The new A7’s wheelbase is about half an inch longer than that of its predecessor, while its overall length is half an inch shorter. Width and height have increased slightly.

Styling cues are borrowed from the 2014 Prologue concept car and the redesigned A8, which was launched earlier this year. Highlights include a hexagonal grille, distinctive LED headlights, large taillights and an active rear spoiler that deploys at speeds above 75 mph to enhance high-speed stability.

The larger wheelbase boosts interior room. Other goodies include a 12-inch digital instrument display and a pair of center console touchscreens: the top 10-inch multimedia unit is dedicated to infotainment systems, while the lower 9-inch display manages climate control, seating and other customizable settings.

At launch, the only powertrain available will be a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine. Mated with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and 48-volt mild-hybrid system, the engine generates 335 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Additional 6- and 4-cylinder gasoline and diesel engine options will be added later. A plug-in hybrid variant also is expected.

Audi’s quattro four-wheel-drive system activates the rear wheels when it detects added traction is required. The mild-hybrid system features a belt-driven alternator, 48-volt lithium-ion battery and enhanced stop-start functionality. In addition to shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stopped, the stop-start system cuts the engine when coasting at speeds below 14 mph.

The car also gets variable-ratio steering and a choice of four suspension configurations. Options include LED headlamps with laser projector technology, a head-up display, voice control and a choice of four sound systems. The autonomous parking system can be activated remotely via a smartphone app, allowing the vehicle to maneuver itself into and out of a parking space or garage without anyone in the vehicle.