2021 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 2021 Audi A7 line gains a high-performance RS 7 model with unique body trim and a 591-horsepower bi-turbo 4.0-liter V8 paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Audi claims the RS 7 can accelerate 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds and has a top speed of 190 mph when properly equipped. The A7 now has a 55 TFSI e plug-in hybrid model that combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder gas engine with an electric motor for a combined 362 horsepower. The plug-in hybrid is capable of traveling an estimated 24 miles on electric power alone. The A7’s base model now has standard 20-inch wheels with all-season tires, while the S7 has 21-inch wheels with summer tires, along with standard virtual cockpit display and carbon-twill interior accents. After its 2019 redesign, the A7 gained standard lane-departure warning and self-dimming headlights. The A7, S7, and RS 7 are sleeker, 4-door-hatchback versions of Audi’s A6/S6 premium midsize sedan. The A7 engine is a 335-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that uses 48-volt mild hybrid technology and an engine stop/start system to save fuel. A 7-speed dual-clutch automated-manual is the sole transmission for the A7. The S7 is a performance version of the A7 that is powered by a 444-horsepower twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system and an 8-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard for both A7, S7 and RS 7. 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.