ISSUE 83
MAR 2020
Cover Story:
HAMILTON
Cars
Words by Nathan Irvine
Typically German. Typically wunderbar.
It’s often accused of lacking the cosmetic flair of its luxury sedan rivals, but this isn’t something you can level at the 2019 Audi A7. The soft, sloped curves of previous models have been sharpened up to create a far more aggressive shape that makes it one of the most desirable Audis to date. Yep, the A7 means serious business with its latest look, but there’s so much more than meets the eye.
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Supplied We love the intimidating looks, especially that huge grille.
Specifications
Engine
3.0-litre, TFSI V6
Power
340bhp at 2,995
Torque
500Nm
Transmission
7 Speed S Tronic
0-100kmh
5.3 seconds
Top Speed
250kmh
Price
From AED 315,000
I step inside and it feels as though I’m at the controls of some sort of space-age vehicle. Sure, the leather seats and fine details in the décor are impressive, but the bleeding-edge tech is what really stands out. Screens here, haptic feedback controls there – it honestly feels like the future has arrived inside the A7.
The list of features associated with the myriad of controls before me is mind-boggling.
From 360 degree parking assist cameras to memory functions that – when set - automatically adjust to the individual when they climb behind the wheel, the Audi A7 2019 has it all. Oh, and two HD screens that display car features and controls, because, well, why not?
Although it’s not an entirely new concept, Audi Virtual Cockpit is slicker than ever. Replace the dials just beyond your steering wheel with all manner of displays such as sat-nav maps or your most cherished music playlist beamed directly from your smartphone.
Speaking of which, as an additional extra you can plug in Bang & Olufsen’s premium 3D sound system to pump out the uplifting tunes when you’re trapped in traffic.
Photo By
Supplied
Powerful LED rear brake lights in action.
As mentioned, the harsher lines of the 2019 A7 really do lift the vehicle. Flourishes across the bonnet serve a dual purpose: aerodynamically they help the car to cut through the air at high-speeds and they make it look sexier.
So Audi now have a tech-packed vehicle, but one that will turn heads as it comes rumbling into view.
Throwing out the tired stereotype of Germans being po-faced, Audi has shows off its playful side by including a completely superfluous show with its front and rear lights.
Adaptive controls in the 2019 A7 mean you can fine-tune the driving to your particular style. As standard, it’s a smooth ride – soaking up the road imperfections like a boss. If you’re partial to an optional extra, you can invest in the adaptive air suspension that will further cushion your drive.
Weirdly, the 2019 model is slightly slower to hit 100kmh mark than its predecessor. Though it’s still quick at 5.3 seconds, mind.
But where the 2019 A7 really comes into its own is when you switch on the dynamic all-wheel steering. Suddenly, this hefty beast becomes as agile as it is powerful, which creates a driving experience usually reserved for specialist race cars. Quite the feat for what’s essentially an executive sedan.
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Supplied The spoiler automatically raises up at around 60kmh.
It’s hard to find fault with the 2019 Audi A7. It’s spacious enough to accommodate a family, and sporty enough to fulfil your boy racer dreams. Audi has set a new standard for the luxury saloon market that goes so much deeper than the A7’s new looks.
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