Audi’s A7 May Debut In Paris

After showing a preview of its new A7 four-door coupe model at the 2009 Detroit auto show, Audi is reportedly ready to unveil the production-ready car this September at the 2010 Paris motor show in September. European sales would most likely start in the first quarter of 2011.

A source within Audi has indicated the A7’s public debut will occur in Paris and is designed to be a natural rival to the Mercedes-Benz CLS and also the likes of the Porsche Panamera and Aston Martin Rapide. The A7 will share its underpinnings with the next-generation A6 midsize sedan, although the A7 will be positioned as an upscale model within Audi’s lineup.

Audi is planning a number of different powertrain configurations for the A7. Audi’s Quattro GmBH subsidiary on the other had has other plans, and is developing a high-performance S7 and RS7 variants. Base A7s will likely receive at least one version of Audi’s new supercharged, direct-injection 3.0-liter V-6, producing at least 272 horsepower.

The S7 could utilize a normally aspirated V-10 like the current S6, but wouldn’t be surprised if Audi installs its 4.2-liter V-8 instead. A second ten-cylinder may step on the toes of the RS7, which is rumored to use a version of the R8’s 5.2-liter V-10. Reports indicate this engine could produce nearly 580 horsepower, roughly the same power as the RS6’s current twin-turbocharged 5.0-liter V-10. Powering all four wheels would be a 7-speed double clutch gearbox.