Is the 2013 Audi A7 a Good Car?

The 2013 Audi A7 is widely regarded as a very good car overall, especially for buyers seeking a stylish, tech-forward luxury hatchback with strong performance and a high-quality interior, though potential owners should budget for higher maintenance and carefully check used examples for reliability issues.

Overview: Where the 2013 Audi A7 Stands Today

The 2013 Audi A7 sits at the intersection of coupe-like design, executive luxury sedan comfort, and hatchback practicality. More than a decade after its launch, it remains attractive on the used market, but like any aging premium German car, its value depends on condition, maintenance history, and buyer expectations about long-term running costs.

Design and Build Quality

The Audi A7’s design was a major selling point at launch, and it has aged gracefully. The 2013 model still looks contemporary, thanks to its fastback silhouette and understated detailing.

Exterior Styling

The 2013 A7 introduced Audi’s now-familiar “Sportback” look to a wider audience, pairing a long, low roofline with a wide stance. LED lighting, a prominent single-frame grille, and clean body lines make it look more modern than many peers of the same vintage.

The following list highlights the key exterior strengths of the 2013 A7’s design.

• Fastback “four-door coupe” profile that still looks current
• Full-size hatch opening, more practical than a traditional sedan trunk
• High-quality paint and trim that generally wear well over time
• Available larger wheels that enhance presence, though may compromise ride comfort
• Discreet luxury styling – less flashy than some rival Mercedes and BMW models

Taken together, the 2013 A7’s exterior is a strong point: it offers distinctive style and practicality in a form that does not look obviously dated.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the 2013 Audi A7 reflects Audi’s reputation for excellent ergonomics and materials. Even by 2025 standards, the cabin feels premium if it has been well maintained.

The following list outlines key aspects of the A7’s interior appeal and limitations.

• High-quality materials: soft-touch plastics, real wood or aluminum trim, and solid switchgear
• Comfortable, supportive front seats with good long-distance comfort
• Ample front legroom and decent rear legroom, though the sloping roofline constrains tall rear passengers’ headroom
• Large hatchback cargo area, more usable than many sedans in the same class
• Quiet cabin at highway speeds, especially on well-maintained examples with good seals and tires

Overall, the cabin makes the A7 feel like a premium long-distance tourer, with the main compromise being rear headroom due to the stylish roofline.

Performance and Driving Experience

The 2013 Audi A7 is known for combining brisk performance with all-weather capability, particularly in its most common U.S. configuration, the supercharged gasoline V6 with Quattro all-wheel drive.

Engine Options and Power

Exact offerings vary by market, but the most widely sold 2013 A7 powertrain in North America is the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 (3.0 TFSI). In Europe and some other regions, diesel options were more common. Diesel variants were not all available in or legal for every market, especially after emissions scandals and changing regulations.

The following list summarizes key engine characteristics for the 2013 A7 lineup as it was generally configured:

• 3.0 TFSI V6 (gasoline, supercharged): Around 310 hp, strong mid-range power, 0–60 mph in roughly 5.3–5.5 seconds
• 3.0 TDI V6 (diesel, where offered): Strong torque and better fuel economy, popular in Europe; subject to diesel-related regulatory and resale concerns in some regions
• Seven- or eight-speed automatic transmissions (depending on market and configuration), usually smooth shifting when maintained
• Quattro all-wheel drive standard on many models, aiding traction in bad weather
• Balanced performance: quick enough for enthusiastic driving, still comfortable for everyday use

The 2013 A7 delivers performance that still feels respectable today, especially in the 3.0 TFSI, as long as the engine and transmission have been properly serviced.

Ride, Handling, and Everyday Use

On the road, the A7 is more of a refined grand tourer than a hardcore sports sedan, though it can be driven quickly with confidence.

The following list describes how the A7 behaves in daily driving and on longer trips.

• Comfortable, composed ride on standard suspension; optional air suspension (where fitted) improves comfort but adds complexity
• Predictable handling with secure grip from Quattro, especially in rain or snow
• Precise steering, though some drivers find feedback a bit muted
• Good highway stability, making it well-suited to long-distance travel
• Parking can be challenging in tight spaces due to size; parking sensors and cameras help, but check that they work properly on used cars

As a daily driver, the 2013 A7 strikes a balance between comfort and sportiness, leaning toward long-distance refinement rather than sharp-edged performance.

Technology and Features

When new, the 2013 Audi A7 was considered technologically advanced. By 2025, some of its systems feel dated compared with modern touch-heavy interfaces, but they remain usable and, in some respects, less distracting.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2013 A7 typically came with Audi’s MMI (Multi Media Interface) system, a pop-up screen, and a rotary controller. Features vary by trim and options.

The list below outlines the typical tech suite and its strengths and weaknesses as of today.

• MMI interface that is menu-based and controlled by a dial and buttons rather than a fully touch-based system
• Navigation available on many models; maps look dated, but routing is still functional
• Bluetooth for calls and, on many cars, audio streaming
• Smartphone integration is limited on 2013 models; native Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not standard then and are rarely available without aftermarket upgrades
• Optional premium sound systems (e.g., Bang & Olufsen in higher trims) that still offer very good audio quality if in good condition

While the 2013 A7’s infotainment no longer leads the segment on features, it remains serviceable, and some owners retrofit more modern interfaces if connectivity is a priority.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety performance for the A7 was strong for its time, with a robust structure and numerous available assist systems, though coverage and features might not match the most advanced modern safety suites.

The following list highlights key safety and driver-assistance elements commonly found on well-equipped 2013 A7s.

• Standard multiple airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes
• Available adaptive cruise control on many higher-spec models
• Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist, depending on package
• Available blind-spot monitoring and parking assistance features
• Strong crash protection by early-2010s standards; buyers should check local safety ratings from organizations such as Euro NCAP or IIHS, bearing in mind testing protocols have evolved since 2013

Taken together, the A7 provides solid safety and reasonably advanced assist tech for its era, though buyers seeking the very latest collision-avoidance systems may find it lacking compared with newer models.

Reliability, Common Issues, and Running Costs

The biggest caveat with calling the 2013 Audi A7 “a good car” lies in long-term reliability and cost of ownership. Mechanical design and materials are mostly sound, but complexity and age mean some cars can be expensive to keep in top shape.

Reliability Record and Common Problems

Owner reports and independent mechanics highlight several recurring trouble spots on older A7s when maintenance has been neglected or when high mileage is involved.

The following list summarizes commonly reported issues prospective buyers should be aware of. Not every car will suffer these, but they are widely documented on aging A7s and similar Audi models.

• Oil leaks and consumption from gaskets or seals, and in some cases higher-than-expected oil consumption as engines age
• Timing-chain–related wear (especially if oil-change intervals were stretched), sometimes leading to rattles on cold start and costly repairs if ignored
• PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) system and thermostat issues, which can cause running problems or warning lights
• Cooling system components (water pumps, thermostat housings) that may require replacement as the car ages
• Suspension wear, particularly on cars with larger wheels or adaptive/air suspension, leading to costly air-spring or damper replacements
• Electronics and sensors, including parking sensors, MMI system glitches, or occasional issues with window regulators and comfort features

These problems are not universal but frequent enough that a pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic familiar with Audi models is strongly recommended before buying.

Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Even when reliable, a 2013 Audi A7 is not a low-cost car to maintain. Parts and specialist labor reflect its status as a premium German vehicle.

The following list outlines the main cost considerations for typical A7 ownership today.

• Higher-than-average maintenance costs compared with mainstream sedans and hatchbacks
• Regular, high-quality oil changes and adherence to factory (or better) service intervals to protect the engine and timing hardware
• Premium tires and brakes, more expensive than on smaller or non-luxury vehicles
• Insurance costs that may be higher than average, depending on region, driver profile, and value
• Potential benefits from an extended warranty or reputable aftermarket warranty, especially if buying higher-mileage examples

Factoring in these expenses, the 2013 A7 is best suited to buyers who accept premium running costs and prioritize driving experience and luxury over budget motoring.

Used Market Value and Buying Advice

On the used market, the 2013 A7 often appears attractive because of steep depreciation from its original price. That discount can represent strong value, but only if the car’s condition and history are sound.

Who the 2013 A7 Suits Best

Not every buyer will be equally well served by an older luxury car. The A7 makes the most sense for certain types of drivers.

The list below outlines which buyers are best matched to a 2013 A7 and who might be better off with alternatives.

• Good fit for drivers who value design, comfort, and performance, and who drive enough to appreciate its refinement but not so much that they rapidly add very high mileage
• Good fit for owners willing to budget generously for maintenance, including preventive work
• Less ideal for people seeking low running costs, simple DIY maintenance, or “set-and-forget” ownership
• Less ideal for those who need cutting-edge infotainment and safety tech without aftermarket upgrades
• Potentially excellent value if you can find a low-mileage, single-owner car with a verifiable, thorough service history and pre-purchase inspection

In practical terms, the 2013 A7 is a strong contender for an enthusiast or discerning buyer who treats it as a premium product, not a cheap used car.

What to Check Before Buying

If you are considering a used 2013 Audi A7, a careful inspection is essential. Many of the car’s potential issues can be identified or at least suspected before purchase.

The list below highlights key checks and steps to reduce risk when shopping for a 2013 A7.

• Obtain a full service history, including timing-chain, PCV, cooling system, and transmission fluid service records
• Arrange a pre-purchase inspection with an independent Audi specialist who can check for oil leaks, cooling issues, suspension wear, and diagnostic codes
• Test all electronic features – MMI system, navigation, audio, cameras, sensors, seat adjustments, and climate controls
• Check for uneven tire wear or vibrations that may indicate suspension or alignment problems
• Review any accident history and look for signs of poor-quality body repairs or paintwork

By carefully vetting candidates and walking away from questionable examples, you greatly improve your chances of enjoying the A7’s strengths without being overwhelmed by its potential costs.

Verdict: Is the 2013 Audi A7 a Good Car?

Judged purely on design, driving experience, and cabin quality, the 2013 Audi A7 is a very good car and still compelling more than a decade later. Its sleek hatchback form, strong V6 performance, and long-distance comfort remain standout attributes in the used luxury segment.

The trade-off comes on the reliability and cost side: this is not a cheap car to run, and neglect can turn a good deal into an expensive mistake. For a buyer who does diligent homework, secures a well-maintained example, and budgets realistically for premium maintenance, the 2013 A7 can be an excellent, enjoyable choice. For anyone prioritizing low running costs and simplicity, a newer mainstream sedan or a certified pre-owned alternative may be a safer bet.

Summary

The 2013 Audi A7 remains an appealing used luxury hatchback, combining distinctive styling, a high-quality interior, and strong all-weather performance. Its technology still works but feels dated compared with modern systems, and ownership costs can be high due to complex mechanicals and potential age-related issues. With a clean history, thorough inspection, and realistic maintenance budget, it can be a rewarding car; without those safeguards, it can become costly. Ultimately, it is a good car for the right owner—someone who values premium driving experience and is prepared to care for it properly.