The 2012 Audi A7 marked the introduction of Audi's stylish four-door coupe to the US market. Boasting a sleek, coupe-like profile with a practical hatchback, it combined luxury with versatility. Key trims included the Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. Original pricing ranged from around $60,000 to $70,000. Its striking design and upscale interior were major contributors to its popularity, setting it apart from more traditional sedans.
The Good
The 2012 Audi A7 delivers a compelling blend of performance and luxury. Its supercharged V6 offers strong acceleration.
Its comfortable ride and upscale cabin appeal to those seeking refinement. The A7's distinctive design and practical hatchback add emotional appeal, while its decent fuel economy and Audi's reputation for build quality offer practical value.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2012 Audi A7 include potential issues with the supercharger, oil consumption, and the complex infotainment system. The rear sloping roofline can limit headroom for taller passengers. Repair costs for Audis can also be higher than average, so maintenance records are crucial when considering a used model.
2012 Audi A7: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 3.0-liter Supercharged V6
- Horsepower: 310 hp @ 5500 rpm
- Fuel Economy:
- City: 18 mpg
- Highway: 28 mpg
- Combined: 22 mpg
- 0–60 Times: Approximately 5.4 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not officially rated for towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- Premium:
- Leather upholstery
- Heated front seats
- Navigation system
- Audi Connect
- Sunroof
- Power liftgate
- Parking sensors
- Premium Plus (adds to Premium):
- Xenon headlights with LED running lights
- Blind spot monitoring
- Audi side assist
- Bose surround-sound system
- Prestige (adds to Premium Plus):
- LED headlights
- Ventilated front seats
- Heated rear seats
- Heads-up display
- Cornering lights
- Premium:
- Drivetrain:
- Quattro all-wheel drive standard
- Transmission:
- 8-speed automatic
2012 Audi A7 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Audi |
| Model | A7 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | All-Wheel Drive |
| Type | Passenger Sedan |
| Category | Minicompact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Hungary |
| Manufacturing City | GYOR |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | Audi |
| Engine Size | 2.9L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Audi A7 Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2012 Audi A7 often revolve around the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine. Some owners have reported issues with excessive oil consumption, which can potentially lead to engine damage if not monitored and addressed. The supercharger itself has been known to experience failures in some cases, requiring costly repairs.
The infotainment system, with its complex MMI interface, can also be a source of frustration for some users due to glitches or slow response times. Electronic gremlins, such as issues with the adaptive cruise control or other driver-assistance features, have also been reported, though less frequently.
While not a widespread problem, some owners have mentioned experiencing issues with the automatic transmission, particularly hesitation or rough shifting. Recalls for the 2012 Audi A7 have been issued for various issues, including potential fuel leaks and problems with the airbags. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recalls before purchasing.
Long-term reliability concerns center around the potential for costly repairs on complex components like the supercharger, transmission, and electronic systems. Regular maintenance and careful monitoring of oil levels are essential to mitigating these risks.
The infotainment system, with its complex MMI interface, can also be a source of frustration for some users due to glitches or slow response times. Electronic gremlins, such as issues with the adaptive cruise control or other driver-assistance features, have also been reported, though less frequently.
While not a widespread problem, some owners have mentioned experiencing issues with the automatic transmission, particularly hesitation or rough shifting. Recalls for the 2012 Audi A7 have been issued for various issues, including potential fuel leaks and problems with the airbags. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recalls before purchasing.
Long-term reliability concerns center around the potential for costly repairs on complex components like the supercharger, transmission, and electronic systems. Regular maintenance and careful monitoring of oil levels are essential to mitigating these risks.
How long will the 2012 Audi A7 last?
A well-maintained 2012 Audi A7 can realistically achieve 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more, depending on driving habits and adherence to scheduled maintenance. Proper oil changes (using the correct synthetic oil), timely transmission fluid replacements, and proactive addressing of any warning signs are crucial.
Long-term durability can be affected by the aforementioned potential issues with the supercharger and oil consumption. The complex electronics can also become more prone to issues with age. However, with diligent care, the A7 can provide many years of reliable service.
Long-term durability can be affected by the aforementioned potential issues with the supercharger and oil consumption. The complex electronics can also become more prone to issues with age. However, with diligent care, the A7 can provide many years of reliable service.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2012 Audi A7 came equipped with a strong suite of tech, entertainment, and safety features. Standard features included a navigation system, Audi Connect (which provided online services), a power liftgate, parking sensors, and leather upholstery. Higher trims added features like blind-spot monitoring (Audi Side Assist), adaptive cruise control, and a Bose surround-sound system.
Optional features included a heads-up display, ventilated front seats, and LED headlights.
Driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning were available, enhancing safety and convenience. The infotainment system, controlled by Audi's MMI interface, allowed for access to navigation, audio, and vehicle settings.
Safety features included antilock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. The 2012 Audi A7 received generally positive crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. For example, the IIHS gave it a 'Good' rating in most crashworthiness categories. Specific NHTSA star ratings varied depending on the test.
Optional features included a heads-up display, ventilated front seats, and LED headlights.
Driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning were available, enhancing safety and convenience. The infotainment system, controlled by Audi's MMI interface, allowed for access to navigation, audio, and vehicle settings.
Safety features included antilock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. The 2012 Audi A7 received generally positive crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. For example, the IIHS gave it a 'Good' rating in most crashworthiness categories. Specific NHTSA star ratings varied depending on the test.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Brilliant Black
Ibis White
Oolong Gray Metallic
Havanna Black Metallic
Dakota Gray Metallic
Moonlight Blue Metallic
Phantom Black Pearl Effect
Quartz Gray Metallic
Floret Silver Metallic
Interior Colors
Impala Beige
Black
Nougat Brown
Velvet Beige
2012 Audi A7 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2012 Audi A7 ranged from approximately $60,000 to $70,000, depending on the trim level and options. Current used market prices typically range from $10,000 to $20,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location.
The A7 has depreciated significantly due to its age, mileage accumulation, and the higher cost of maintaining a luxury vehicle. Factors affecting resale value include the condition of the car, maintenance history, mileage, and the presence of desirable options. Cars with documented service records and in excellent condition command higher prices.
The A7 has depreciated significantly due to its age, mileage accumulation, and the higher cost of maintaining a luxury vehicle. Factors affecting resale value include the condition of the car, maintenance history, mileage, and the presence of desirable options. Cars with documented service records and in excellent condition command higher prices.
2012 Audi A7 Cost of Ownership
The 2012 Audi A7 is generally considered a costly vehicle to own long-term. Insurance costs are higher than average due to its luxury status and repair expenses. While fuel economy is decent for its class, premium fuel is recommended. Maintenance, especially repairs, can be expensive due to the cost of parts and specialized labor required for Audis. Potential issues like supercharger failure and oil consumption can lead to significant repair bills, increasing overall ownership costs.
2012 Audi A7 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2012 Audi A7 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2012 Audi A7 Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags:sensor:occupant Classification
Recall date
2015-12-08
Recall no.
15v823000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2012-2013 Audi A6 Vehicles Manufactured March 28, 2011, TO March 25, 2013, and 2012-2013 Audi A7 Vehicles Manufactured January 25, 2011, TO March 19, 2013. IN Vehicles With Heated and Cooled Seats, THE Passenger Occupant Detection System (Pods), Used TO Enable THE Front Passenger AIR Bags, MAY Malfunction and Prevent THE Passenger-side AIR Bags From Deploying IN A Crash.
Consequence
AN AIR BAG That Does NOT Deploy AS Intended Increases THE Risk OF Occupant Injury IN A Crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Audi Dealers Will Install A Pods System Repair Kit, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON February 5, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 74d1.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:fuel Rail
Recall date
2015-01-20
Recall no.
15v019000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2012 Audi S4, S5, Q7, 2012 Audi A6, Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid, and 2012-2013 Audi A7 Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles THE Fuel Injection System MAY Experience A Fuel Leak.
Consequence
A Fuel Leak IN THE Injection System IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, Increases THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Rails and Corresponding Seals, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 17, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-822-2834 or Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE 24ap FOR Audi Customers and 24bk FOR Volkswagen Customers.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date
2016-09-07
Recall no.
16v646000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2012-2013 Audi A6 and Audi A7 Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles Have A Fuel Hose IN THE Engine Compartment That MAY Degrade and Leak Fuel.
Consequence
A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source Increases THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Audi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Under Hood Fuel Pump and Fuel Hose, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began November 2016. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 24bz.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:sensor:occupant Classification
Recall date
2018-06-04
Recall no.
18v370000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2018 Audi S6 and S7, 2012-2018 A7 and A6 Sedan, and 2014-2018 RS7 Vehicles Equipped With Basic Seats (With or Without Heating). Stress or Wear OF THE Body-sensing MAT Within THE Front Passenger Seat MAY Cause THE Passenger Occupant Detection System (pods) Control Module TO Malfunction.
Consequence
IF THE Pods Module Malfunctions, THE Front Passenger AIR BAG MAY NOT Deploy Properly IN THE Event OF A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install A Pods System Repair Kit, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began November 29, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 74d5.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date
2017-12-06
Recall no.
17v781000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2012-2014 Audi A6 and A7 Vehicles. THE Fuel Line HAS A Compression Point That CAN Weaken, Potentially Resulting IN A Fuel Leak.
Consequence
A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, Increases THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Audi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Line, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 5, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-888-237-2834. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 20ar.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2012 Audi A7 Insurance
Insurance for a 2012 Audi A7 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Passenger Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Audi A7 Compare to Other Passenger Sedan?
The 2012 Audi A7 competed with vehicles like the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, and Acura ZDX. The A7 offered a compelling blend of style, performance, and practicality, but its reliability wasn't always as strong as some competitors.
Compared to the BMW 5 Series GT, the A7 arguably had a more attractive design and a more intuitive infotainment system. The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class offered similar levels of luxury and performance but often came at a higher price point.
In terms of reliability, the Acura ZDX was generally considered more reliable but lacked the A7's refined interior and driving dynamics. The A7's supercharged V6 engine provided strong performance, but its fuel economy wasn't as good as some competitors' offerings.
Alternatives to the 2012 Audi A7 include the BMW 5 Series (for a more traditional sedan experience with better reliability) or the Lexus GS (for a more reliable and equally luxurious option). If design is a top priority and budget isn't a concern, the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class remains a strong contender. Depending on your priorities (reliability, performance, features, or price), each alternative presents a compelling case.
Compared to the BMW 5 Series GT, the A7 arguably had a more attractive design and a more intuitive infotainment system. The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class offered similar levels of luxury and performance but often came at a higher price point.
In terms of reliability, the Acura ZDX was generally considered more reliable but lacked the A7's refined interior and driving dynamics. The A7's supercharged V6 engine provided strong performance, but its fuel economy wasn't as good as some competitors' offerings.
Alternatives to the 2012 Audi A7 include the BMW 5 Series (for a more traditional sedan experience with better reliability) or the Lexus GS (for a more reliable and equally luxurious option). If design is a top priority and budget isn't a concern, the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class remains a strong contender. Depending on your priorities (reliability, performance, features, or price), each alternative presents a compelling case.
Ranks #1095 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1095 | 2012 Audi A7 | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Audi A7 a Good Passenger Sedan?
The 2012 Audi A7 is ideal for buyers seeking a stylish and luxurious four-door coupe with a practical hatchback. It's a good choice for those who appreciate design and are willing to accept potentially higher maintenance costs.
Whether it's worth buying depends on the individual's tolerance for risk and their budget. A used 2012 A7 can be a good value if purchased at the right price and with a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Prioritize models with complete service records and avoid those with known issues like excessive oil consumption. The Premium Plus trim offers a good balance of features and value. Be prepared for potentially costly repairs down the road.
Whether it's worth buying depends on the individual's tolerance for risk and their budget. A used 2012 A7 can be a good value if purchased at the right price and with a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Prioritize models with complete service records and avoid those with known issues like excessive oil consumption. The Premium Plus trim offers a good balance of features and value. Be prepared for potentially costly repairs down the road.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.