Why was the four-wheel drive system removed from the 2020 Audi A7?

[NathanAnn]

2020 Audi A7 did not cancel the four-wheel drive system. Only the 3.0T models are equipped with the four-wheel drive system, while the 2.0T models are front-wheel drive. However, the A7 models introduced to the Chinese market are all 2.0T versions, so the Audi A7 in China does not have a four-wheel drive system. More details about the Audi A7 are as follows: 1. Introduction: The A7 is a mid-to-large-sized coupe under the Audi brand, with a wheelbase of 2928 mm, and dimensions of 4976 mm in length, 1908 mm in width, and 1405 mm in height. 2. Powertrain: The A7 introduced to the Chinese market uses two engines: one is a low-power version 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, and the other is a high-power version 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. The low-power version 2.0-liter turbocharged engine has a maximum power of 140 kW and a maximum torque of 320 Nm. This engine is equipped with hybrid injection technology and uses an aluminum alloy cylinder head and cast iron cylinder block. It is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The high-power version 2.0-liter turbocharged engine has a maximum power of 180 kW and a maximum torque of 370 Nm. This engine is also equipped with hybrid injection technology and uses an aluminum alloy cylinder head and cast iron cylinder block. It is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

[Dana]

The 2020 Audi A7 canceled its all-wheel-drive system primarily because Audi aimed to reduce costs and improve fuel efficiency in its entry-level models. As someone who frequently drives the A7, I feel that all-wheel drive is unnecessary for city roads—it only adds weight and increases fuel consumption. By switching to a front-wheel-drive system, Audi managed to lower the starting price slightly, making it more accessible to average buyers. Additionally, this generation of the A7 places greater emphasis on everyday practicality, with nearly a 10% improvement in fuel economy and reduced emissions, making it more environmentally friendly. Of course, users who enjoy off-roading or driving in snowy conditions might be disappointed, but the higher-end versions still offer all-wheel drive as an option. In summary, this is a reasonable adjustment by Audi to adapt to market changes and environmental trends, aligning well with the demands of modern urban living.

[AlexandraLee]

I think Audi made a smart move by removing the quattro system from the 2020 A7. From a technical perspective, it reduces weight by dozens of kilograms, making the car more fuel-efficient and agile. Although the Quattro system is excellent, its maintenance costs are high, and eliminating it also lowers the failure rate to some extent. Audi probably aims to position it as an economical luxury car to attract budget-conscious young buyers. For example, when I first bought this car, I saved nearly 10,000 yuan. The improvement in fuel efficiency is undeniable, with the combined fuel consumption dropping to around 8L, which is super practical for long-distance driving. Of course, Audi didn’t cut corners on the powertrain—they used better front-wheel-drive tuning, and the grip is decent, perfectly adequate for daily commuting.

[ValerieAnn]

The 2020 Audi A7 lost its all-wheel drive, simply put, Audi wanted to sell more cars and increase profits. They reduced production costs and lowered the price, making the entry-level version much cheaper. When I test drove it, I felt this change was quite practical—AWD isn't necessary in the city and just consumes more fuel. After removing it, the car saves nearly 1 liter per 100 km, and maintenance becomes simpler. Audi also shifted focus to comfort and tech features to compensate for this drawback. Overall, this move made the A7 more accessible, appealing to buyers like me who value cost-effectiveness.

[VanGage]

The removal of all-wheel drive in the 2020 Audi A7 was aimed at achieving environmental goals. Driving this car makes me feel it's making a greater effort in emission reduction—eliminating AWD reduces weight and fuel consumption, resulting in cleaner emissions. Audi's overall strategy is to promote sustainable solutions, and the A7 is one of the pilot models. In urban driving, AWD isn't particularly useful, and switching to front-wheel drive improves fuel efficiency, aligning with global carbon reduction trends. As someone who cares about environmental protection, I support this adjustment, but I suggest Audi retain AWD as an option for specific users.