Audi A7 Sportback 3.0TDi Ultra review

What is it?

On top of a mild face-lift, Audi’s sharp-looking fastback Coupe increases its desirability further with the addition of this frugal ‘Ultra’ 3.0 TDi V6  version.
What’s hot?

• Launched back in 2009, the A7 has to be one of the most attractive models in the range. Thankfully, Audi have limited the face-lift tweaks to a reworked front grille, LED headlights and driving lights and revised front and rear bumpers.
• Inside, face-lift changes for the A7 are limited to new trims and interior colour options.
• The reworked 3.0-litre TDi V6 might be down on power with the Ultra efficiency changes, but 218PS is more than adequate and the A7 is still capable of 60.1mpg.
• On the road, you wouldn’t know this is the Ultra, efficient version as this A7 is a strong, willing performer. The 3.0-litre TDi diesel even sounds vaguely sporty too.
• The seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch auto is a perfect match for the Ultra’s 3.0-litre TDi diesel engine, giving quick and slick changes.  Acceleration to 62mph is dispatched in an effortless 7.3 seconds, while the top speed is a supercar-rivalling 148mph.
• The A7 Ultra handles tidily, with very little body roll and plenty of grip the order of the day.
• One of the benefits of that fastback shape has to be the practical 535-litre boot, while the rest of the A7’s interior feels spacious enough for four.
• Considering the size of the engine, the 122g/km CO2 emissions are amazing and mean the A7 3.0-TDi Ultra falls into the 20% company car tax band for 2014/15.