2022 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 2022 Audi A7 adds upgraded infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, and rear side-airbags to the base model. The S7 also gets standard rear side-airbags and the RS 7 gains an optional performance suspension. 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 A7 55 TFSI e plug-in hybrid model 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 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. The RS 7 has a 591-horsepower bi-turbo 4.0-liter V8 paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard for 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.