Select a year
- Highs Head-turning good looks, blistering acceleration, elegantly appointed cabin.
- Lows Compromised second-row headroom, only room for four, noticeably pricier than the slightly more practical Audi S6.
- Verdict When it comes to the total package, few sports sedans come close to matching the expertly engineered Audi S7.
Overview
The 2018 Audi S7 is equal parts practical luxury hatchback and unrelenting sports sedan that lives to have its 450-hp twin-turbo V-8 unleashed at every opportunity. Its swept-back shape also happens to look fantastic, though taller adults seated in the second row might argue for more headroom. Inside, the cabin has a quality look and feel that extends from the comfort of the leather seats, to the feel of every soft-touch control, and the tech-laden infotainment system.
What's New for 2018?
The S7 carries on with no notable changes for the 2018 model year. With a car this polished and potent, that’s not a bad thing.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- Premium Plus: $82,175
- Prestige: $84,125
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Motivation for the S7 comes from a 450-hp twin-turbocharged V-8 that sends power to all four wheels via a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission. Other than its thirst for fuel, there’s nothing to fault about this powertrain. Instant acceleration is there whenever it’s needed, and the Quattro all-wheel-drive system makes certain the S7 remains firmly under control no matter the weather conditions. The adjustable suspension also lets you dial in a more supple ride for long-distance highway comfort or a much firmer setup for moments when you want to attack the road ahead.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
There is a price to be paid for the elegant profile of the S7. Headroom is tight for tall adults seated in the second row, which only has room for two people, versus the three-across setup in the A7. We don’t consider this a deal-breaker, and it’s a rare blemish in an otherwise impeccable cabin. Everywhere you look and touch, it’s evident the German automaker has an ace engineering team dedicated to crafting a world-class interior. In addition to the poshness of the passenger compartment, note that the trunk measures in at a generous 24 cubic feet. Fold the rear seat backs down and you have enough cargo space for five-star runs to the nearest IKEA. Other notable standard features include heated front seats, four-zone climate control, and leather upholstery.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Audi MMI interface is one of our favorites among luxury brands. Remember, even the classiest cabin can be ruined by an infotainment system with balky controls and maddening menus. That’s not the case in the S7, the 8.0-inch touchscreen is a breeze to operate and comes standard with sought-after features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and satellite radio.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
For more information about the Audi S7’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
