2021 Audi A7 Pros vs Cons
When it comes to cars, James Murdock has the real-world experience to back it up. With an economics degree and over 20 years running the family dealership, he's managed it all - from sales to service and marketing. His role is to provide his expert opinion on vehicle performance and value. He meticulously fact checks all features and data with vehicle manufacturers to ensure the upmost accuracy.
For many people, the 2021 Audi A7 is a dream luxury sedan. It’s engaging to drive, roomy, and filled with cutting-edge technology. Many people also love the A7’s coupe-like styling. While the A7 is a great car, it’s stacked against some stiff competition. Is the new A7 worthy of your hard-earned money?
What’s New for 2021?
For 2021, Audi now offers the A7 with a new plug-in hybrid powertrain. Audi has also enhanced the base model by adding standard 20-inch wheels with all-season tires. Meanwhile, a new Sport package is now on the range-topping Prestige model’s list of options.
Ten Reasons You May Like the 2021 Audi A7 – The Pros
1. Strong Yet Economical Powertrain
The A7’s standard powertrain is an impressive one. It uses a turbo V6 engine, which is assisted by a mild-hybrid system. Audi rates this combination to develop a potent 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Acceleration is very strong. When launched from a standstill, this sedan scampers to 60 mph in a swift 5.2 seconds. Drivers can also trust the A7 to return good fuel economy. A freeway rating of 29 mpg ensures an efficient road trip.
2. All-New Plug-In Hybrid Model
The biggest update for 2021 is the arrival of the A7’s new plug-in hybrid model. Eco-friendly motorists will especially appreciate what the new A7 55 TFSI e brings to the table. Although this model’s fuel economy numbers have yet to be revealed, it will be the most efficient version of the A7. An estimated electric driving range of 27 miles sweetens the deal. With a total of 362 horsepower on tap, drivers won’t have to sacrifice a bit of performance.
3. Quarto All-Wheel Drive Aids Traction
By now, many people have heard of Audi’s famous Quattro AWD system. For good reason, it remains a highly sough-after feature. Fortunately, every new A7 comes standard with Quattro all-wheel drive. Intelligent software enables the system to constantly monitor traction. Motorists will always have an extra degree of confidence during bad weather. However, this sophisticated AWD system also improves the A7’s performance on dry pavement. It gives the car a more responsive feel in all conditions.
4. Fun to Drive Luxury Car
The 2021 Audi A7 isn’t just great for long-distance cruising. It’s also a highly recommended luxury car for driving enthusiasts. Upon test driving the new A7, many people are amazed by this sedan’s sporty road manners. Not only does the A7’s standard suspension do a fine job of limiting body motions on twisty roads, but it also delivers a supple ride. A Sport Package is offered on the top-of-the Prestige trim, which adds stickier summer tires and an adaptive suspension.
5. Practical Luxury Car
Drivers will love the A7’s practicality. It has all the key traits you would want in a daily-driver. Fuel economy is excellent for such a powerful automobile. There’s also enough interior room for up to four adults to travel in comfort. Among the A7’s biggest highlights is its cargo versatility.A hatchback design frees up a lot of extra storage space. Listed with a cargo capacity of nearly 25 cubic feet, the 2021 Audi A7 can hold just as much stuff as some SUVs.
6. Coupe-Like Body Design Turns Heads
The 2021 Audi A7 is mechanically similar to the Audi A7. However, it has a noticeably sleeker body. When spotting the A7 on the road, onlookers will instantly notice its coupe-like profile. With 20-inch wheels now being standard, even the base A7 has a sporty stance. Audi’s signature Singleframe grille gives the sedan’s front fascia a bit of flair. Aside from help to improvise visibility at night, Audi’s available Matrix-design LED headlights give the A7 a cooler look. A stylish Black Optics package is optional.
7. All the Latest Safety Gear
All versions of the 2021 Audi A7 receive today’s most desirable safety technologies. When the driver is on the verge of colliding into another vehicle, Audi Pre Sense Front will help bring the car to a halt. Meanwhile, Audi Pre Sense Basic performs functions to help reduce the severity of a crash, including closing the windows and tightening the seatbelts. While lane departure warning also comes standard, upper trims provide blind-spot warning and smart cruise control.
8. Audi’s Virtual Cockpit Enhances Your Driving Experience
A traditional analog gauge cluster comes standard on the base Premium model. Drivers who have a passion for modern technology will prefer Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, which is standard on the higher trim levels. It replaces the gauge cluster with a customizable 12.3-inch screen. High resolution graphics make everything easy to see while on the road. Travelers will certainly enjoy the Virtual Cockpit’s 3D road maps. A lot of key information will be easily accessible.
9. Stunning Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System
Most people won’t have any issues with the A7’s standard 10-speaker stereo. Nevertheless, avid music fans don’t want to miss out on the available Bang & Olufsen premium audio system. It delivers multi-dimensional sound with a total of 19 speakers. A powerful amplifier helps ensure the best possible audio quality at all volumes.
10. Premium Creature Comforts
Most people will be more than satisfied with the comfort of the base A7. Leather seating surfaces and tri-zone automatic climate control come standard. However, some car shoppers will be tempted by the car’s available options. Upgraded front seats with massaging and ventilation functions are available on the Prestige model. Valcona leather upholstery further elevates the sedan’s luxuriousness.
Reasons You May Not Like the 2021 Audi A7 – The Cons
1. Can Be an Expensive Purchase
Some car shoppers will find the 2021 Audi A7 to be too big of an expense. Prices start at nearly $70,000. However, this sedan becomes even more costly as you climb the trim ladder. A fully loaded Prestige model demands well over $80,000. Drivers who can’t fit the A7 into their budget should consider the Audi A4. It has a more reasonable MSRP of $39,100.
2. Sleek Body Style Sacrifices Some Headroom
This car’s sleek exterior design is a big attraction. Unfortunately, the A7’s coupe-like roofline does reduce the cabin’s headroom. This is especially true for taller passengers sitting in the rear. Before buying a new 2021 Audi A7, car shoppers should make sure their family fits comfortably.
3. New Infotainment System Requires A Lot of Practice
Audi’s new MMI infotainment system is among the most technologically advanced on the market. Many drivers will like its dual-screen design. However, it takes a while for the average person to learn how to use this interface. To effectively operate the Touch Response system, some drivers will be forced to momentarily take their eyes off the road.
4. May Not Look Menacing Enough for Some People
The 2021 Audi A7 is sleek and attractive. Buyers also have a couple of cool appearance packages to choose from. Nevertheless, some people will still desire a more aggressive-looking sports sedan.
5. Rear Visibility Could Be Better
Drivers will have a clear view of the road ahead. Unfortunately, rearward visibility isn’t nearly as good. Because of the car’s sloping roof, it’s often hard to see from certain angles. Drivers must pay closer attention when preparing to switch lanes on the highway. This is the reason who it’s recommended to get the car’s available blind-spot warning system.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition
2021 Audi A7 vs 2021 Porsche Panamera
While the Audi A7 can be an entertaining car to drive, the Porsche Panamera puts an even greater emphasis on performance. Expect the Panamera to handle like a genuine sports car. However, drivers will have to spend a lot more money to get a new Panamera. Prices begin at an estimated $90,000. Furthermore, only the Audi A7 receives standard all-wheel drive.
2021 Audi A7 vs 2021 Volvo V90
Like the A7, the Volvo V90 offers a lot of cargo space. This car also has extremely spacious seating and a long list of great safety features. However, don’t expect the V90’s wagon body style to look nearly as sleek. Most people will also have more fun driving the new Audi A7.
2021 Audi A7 vs 2021 Audi A6
There are many similarities between the Audi A7 and the Audi A6. These two luxury sedans offer the same interior features. However, there’s no overlooking the A7’s sleeker exterior design. Greater cargo space gives the A7 another edge over its sibling. However, it’s important to note that the A6 is thousands of dollars less expensive. There’s also more headroom in the back of the A6.
Drivers who are in the market for a high-end luxury sedan should definitely sample the new 2021 Audi A7. With the introduction of a new plug-in hybrid powertrain, it now offers greater fuel savings. While the A7 can deliver a lot of fun on the road, buyers will especially love its comfort and style. Safety is also a big emphasis. Although there’s less headroom in the rear, this shouldn’t be a problem for most families.
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