So here's the scoop - last I heard, the RS5 is now maybe coming to the US as a 2013 model. That equates to another year and a half of waiting, which means plenty of time to lease the A7 and swap for a second-model year RS5. I need to talk to my AoA guy and see if I should wait, do an S7, whatever.

As far as the engine goes, it's pretty potent. It's basically a detuned S4 engine, so a little chip work will go a long way. From reviews, it sounds like the A7 needs an exhaust upgrade as well. For the loaded A7 I'd consider, I'll budget an extra $4K or so for that stuff and it should be awesome. We'll see - I'll definitely drive one before I commit.

 

Don't know why the panamera gets crapped on but this car, people seem to like. I rather have the 4 door p-car, as I find the A7 to be hideous. Of course everyone is entitled to their own opinion but I guess I'm just suprised that the A7 isn't bashed like the Porsche. I really dislike the rear like someone mentioned but the front isn't bad.

 

I would rather have a Panamera than the A7, but a comparably-equipped Panamera would be $50K more. That's significant in my book.

 

Saw my first one a few weeks ago, I was a fan.

 

saw one at my dealer when I went to take my car in....I thought it looked great!!

 

^^^ That's similar to the spec I want, just in Daytona Gray. S-line, 20s, etc.

 

I don't know about this one. Not a fan of the way it looks.

 

I got to try out the new A6 yesterday, and while I still hate how every new Audi short of the SUVs look literally IDENTICAL, it is a seriously nice car. Front end looks like it's about to murder your ass. Liked it so much that I'd have a hard time eating the premium for the A7 over it. But dang - it was a nearly loaded A6 3.0TDi Quattro .... carrying a $110K sticker. Whew. For a three liter diesel.

And I think the A7 is far from ugly, but it does look pretty goofy in certain angles . . .

 

in Germany?

 

Saw an A7 on the road today (must be an AoA car). It looked really good and very distinctive. My local dealer has asked me to come by and check out the one they have. Probably later this week since I still feel like shit...