Audi A7 3.0 BiTDi Quattro Black Edition long-term review

The A7 executive hatchback is back with a new 21in tyre after its blow-out
Report six: 4 February 2013 - the Audi A7 is back with a new tyre
Our last report below noted the motorway blow-out, which left our A7 stranded over Christmas. The tyre was shredded and Audi recovered the car to check it over after its exploding tyre incident. It returned a week ago with a new 21-inch tyre and a comprehensive health check. Let's hope we don't suffer any more punctures, especially as the 275/30 ZR21 boots cost at least £250 and over £500 for some premium brands. Ouch.

Its return was my first chance to drive MSN Cars' A7 3.0 TDI Bi-turbo. I've had a go in lowlier A7s previously, but never this range-topping diesel model with its stout 313hp and Porsche-wilting 0-62mph time of 5.3sec. On first acquaintance, it lives up to expectation: it is an extremely rapid executive express, and I'm grateful for the standard Quattro four-wheel drive system at this slippery time of year. Without 4wd, that 479lb ft of twist would surely be sending me into the nearest hedge.

I have previously lived with a Mercedes CLS for a year and look forward to seeing how Audi's take on the sleek four-door coupe/hatchback genre moves the game on. The model proliferation at Audi can seem beguiling - does one brand really need 42 different models? Our long-term test of the Audi A7 gives an ideal opportunity to see if this car is a niche too far or cleverly positioned.

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