2019 Audi A7

Pros: Nicely finished cabin; smooth, powerful engine; hatchback cargo versatility

Cons: Rear-seat room sacrificed for style; complex infotainment controls; price premium over A6 sedan

CG Says: The Audi A7 is redesigned for 2019, gaining fresh styling inside and out, new technology features, and a “mild hybrid” V6 powertrain. The A7 is a sleeker, 4-door-hatchback version of Audi’s A6 premium midsize sedan, which is also redesigned this year. The 2019 Audi A7 swaps the previous 340-horsepower supercharged 3.0-liter V6 for a 335-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that uses 48-volt mild hybrid technology and an engine stop/start system to save fuel. Although the new powertrain is down five horsepower, torque increases by 44 lb-ft, to 369. All-wheel drive is still standard and the previous 8-speed automatic transmission is replaced by a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. The high-performance S7 is not offered this year, but should return for the 2020 model year. Available safety features include intersection assist, a feature that monitors cross traffic and can sound a warning and/or apply the brakes to help avoid an accident; turn assist, which can apply the brakes if there is an oncoming vehicle when making a left turn; collision avoidance assist, which helps steer the car around obstacles in an emergency lane-change situation; pre sense city, which can apply the brakes to help avoid a collision if vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists are detected; and vehicle exit assist, which warns if a moving object is approaching from behind when occupants are exiting the car. You’ll pay a significant price premium over the similar Audi A6 for the A7’s sleek fastback styling, and you’ll get less rear passenger space in the bargain. However, the A7’s sexy looks and improved cargo space/versatility, along with a few extra features, might be worth it for some shoppers. Regardless of body style, the impeccably finished cabins and smooth powertrains of these polished midsize luxury cars have a lot of appeal.