2023 Audi S7 Sportback

The second-generation Audi S7 Sportback dukes it out in the performance executive four-door coupe segment in the USA along with the BMW 850i Gran Coupe and Mercedes-AMG GT43 Four-Door. It is a four-door coupe alternative to Ingolstadt's sporty S6 sedan, taking the shape of a stylish fastback offering superior practicality, as the electric liftgate gives you access to a bigger cargo space. It is powered by a Porsche-derived twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 with mild-hybrid assistance, with power outputs totaling 444 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, which is sent to all four wheels. The resulting acceleration is smooth and raid, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds. Like the A6 and S6, the S7 is built on the Volkswagen Group's MLB platform, and with standard air suspension, it offers sharp handling without compromising on comfort.

This is always the worst part of any new car buy. The base Premium S7 Sportback is on sale for $83,500 in the USA, excluding a $1,095 destination charge. Opt for the more heavily-specced Premium Plus trim and you'll pay $87,700. The top-of-the-range Prestige trim will cost $91,500. Tick enough boxes on the options list and a fully-loaded Audi S7's MSRP will happily lighten your bank account to the tune of over $100,000.

With a curb weight of 4,597 pounds, this is a very hefty car, but a quick review of the Audi S7 Sportback's chassis specifications shows why it feels more athletic than its weight suggests - it has front and rear independent sport adaptive air suspension as standard. This means it can morph from a comfortable cruiser to a grippy handler on command, providing an admirable balance. Competing BMW M products tend to favor handling at the expense of a brittle ride. With the added benefit of a mild-hybrid motor system, the twin-turbocharged engine also provides a lag-free throttle response. Massive brakes mean that stopping performance is just as impressive.

If the standard suspension doesn't suit your taste, you can opt for the stiffer S Sport adaptive steel suspension. The S Sport package also adds all-wheel steering, a sports exhaust, a rear sports differential, and red brake calipers catering to those wanting a sportier focus from their Audi S7 Sportback sedan.

Looking at the S7 in isolation from its design brief, it is hard to deny that it is a really good performance car. With its svelte looks, inside and out, and impressive performance capabilities, the 2023 S7 Sportback makes a stellar first impression. It has the appeal of being a daily driver as well, thanks to generous interior space, supple air suspension, and a long list of standard comfort and convenience features. Where it falls short is in the driver satisfaction category, where its rivals simply do a better job. The Audi S7 Sportback is great at going fast, but not as good as making it an enjoyable experience. You realize this when you compare the Audi S7 Sportback to its BMW competitors who have garnered a stronger reputation for a sportier handling feel. The offering's clinical driving persona and dull exhaust note feels a bit out of place in this particular niche segment.

Opinions on which car to buy at this level can be divisive, as those of us who can't afford a car half the price of this one would be utterly enamored with a stock standard base model. However, the scale of economics for those who can spend $100,000 on a car is different. Since the difference between the so-called base model and the Prestige trim is around $8k, opting for the middle or top trim isn't overly expensive. Thus, we'd go right for the Prestige model and make the most of its added features, which include a head-up display, extended leather, power soft-closing doors, and added safety equipment. The other options that include performance enhancements, a better sound system, and a night vision camera could be overkill, but if you want to, go for it.