The motoring world is going through something of an S-car overload this morning what with the news of two new S6 models, but Audi has given us more to gorge on in the guise of the new Audi S7 Sportback.
Until now the most powerful engine offered in Audi's stylish Mercedes-Benz CLS and BMW 5 Series GT competitor has been a 300hp V6, but that is all set to change on September 13 when Audi unveils the S7 Sportback at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
Powered by the same twin-turbocharged, 4.0-litre V8 as the new S6 models, it is set to be devilishly quick with a 0-100km/h time of 4.9 seconds and a top speed limited to 250km/h. Like the Audi S6 the new S7 makes full use of aluminium to reduce its kerb weight and in conjunction with Audi's 'cylinder on demand' technology sees the S7 consume just 9.7 litres/100km. Peak power is 420hp, while torque tops out at 550Nm.
Like the S6, power is transmitted to 19-inch alloy wheels (20-inch items are available as an option) via a seven-speed S-tronic transmission and Audi's quattro four-wheel drive system. Ventilated disc brakes feature as standard all-round, though carbon-fibre ceramic discs are an option, as too is dynamic steering, which varies its ratio as a function of speed.
Nine exterior colours will be available when the S7 Sportback hits showrooms in spring 2012 - including shades like Estoril Blue and Prism Silver - as too will be the full Audi range of optional extras like the Bluetooth online car phone that connects the S7 with the internet.