AUDI INTRODUCES BIGGER SPORTBACK 28/07/2010, By By Press Association

AUDI is claiming an all-new niche product in the shape of its A7 Sportback, announced ahead of its UK debut in 2011. Billed as an excecutive-sized five-door performance coupe, the A7 follows the template set by the smaller A5 Sportback in offering more space and a more sporty design than an equivalent saloon.

As always the engine range is comprehensive, with an initial line up including a choice of the naturally aspirated 204PS 2.8-litre FSI and supercharged 300PS 3.0-litre TFSI petrol units as well as two versions of the acclaimed 3.0-litre TDI in 204PS and 245PS forms. These four engines also feature stop/start as standard, contributing to impressive economy and emissions figures.

For the first time in Audi models at this level, these will be combined with the rapid-shifting seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch sports transmission wherever quattro four-wheel-drive is installed. The quattro all-wheel-drive system appears in latest generation form with 40%:60% rear bias and featuring the crown gear differential first seen in the RS 5, which can vary torque distribution between the front and rear axles even more widely for even greater agility.

UK sales commence in January 2011, with prices starting from £42,925.