AUDI LAUNCHES STONKING A7 SPORTBACK BITURBO DIESEL

Audi South Africa has introduced a fourth engine derivative to the A7 Sportback. The car launched in Mzansi back in March 2011 with only two engines. Since then an “entry-level” diesel with 150kW and 400Nm was added, as well as the S7 Quattro pushing forth 309kW and 550Nm. The new engine is also a turbo diesel. A BiTurbo diesel to be exact.

The A7 Sportback 3.0 TDI BiTurbo comes with a diesel V6 strapping two turbos on the side and not taking any prisoners. At its best it delivers an uncompromising 230kW between 3900rpm and 4500rpm. Creamy torque of 650Nm appears between 1450rpm and 2800rpm, which is a relatively short band. However, the car can rev all the way up to 5200rpm if driver so desires. Making the moves is an 8-speed Tiptronic gearbox driving all four wheels using the quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. A 0 – 100km/h sprint time of 5.3 seconds is claimed, with top speed limited to 250km/h. our experience with Audi products is that both figures are understated, especially the top speed one.

Despite being somewhat of a hot premium people /utility wagon, Audi claims it will sip diesel at a rate of 6.3 litres per 100km, giving it a theoretical tank range of about 1 030 km. That’s quite something. We understand also that a special exhaust note has been designed to get the blood nice and warm if you are feeling sporty on the day.

Thankfully there is a raft of standard items that somewhat help to justify the sticker price. Such items include 19-inch alloy wheels, a sports suspension, Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights, 4-zone climate control, Bluetooth connectivity and MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touch.

Price

A7 3.0 TDI BiTurbo (R855 000)