Audi A7

The redesigned Audi A7 places even stronger emphasis on luxury and high-tech features than its predecessor. It maintains the same swept-back profile as the previous generation, and is a more stylish take on the A6 with the practical benefit of a hatchback. Powering the base A7 is a 335-hp, twin-turbocharged V6 engine coupled to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. This mild-hybrid powertrain includes a 48-volt electrical system to ensure accessories don't tax fuel economy. Inside, there is a new control system consisting of two touch screens but it proves fairly easy to use. Fit and finish and seat comfort are superb.

The ride height of coupelike A7 is lower than the A6 and the car is more firmly sprung. As is to be expected, in exchange for its sleek appearance, the sedan also sacrifices some interior comfort for sportiness. However, the A7 also presents the cargo flexibility of a hatchback. Its 3.0-liter, supercharged V6 is mated to Audi's excellent eight-speed automatic transmission. In our tests, the diesel version returned an excellent 28 mpg overall. (However, keep in mind the diesel is under a cloud of emissions controls violations and may not be the best move to make as far as resale value is concerned.) The interior is very luxurious and features an available head-up display that projects information on the windshield.