After a year-long hiatus, the Audi S7 reappears for 2020. The S7 is a performance variant of the A7, a large luxury sedan, that was redesigned for 2019. It competes with the likes of the BMW 6 Series, Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, and Cadillac XTS.

The S7 features a Sportback design, which enhances utility and helps this Audi stand out from the crowd. Design elements include 20-inch wheels, Audi’s signature Singleframe grille, sporty bumpers inspired by other Audi S models, and quad exhaust tips. Optional matrix LED headlights give the S7 a high-tech look. The optional black optic styling package adds black trim and anthracite 21-inch wheels.

The S7’s powertrain is all new. It consists of a 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine paired with a 48-volt electric compressor to enhance low-end torque. Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) system comes standard, as well as an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. The system is rated for 444 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. An adaptive air suspension comes standard, and as usual, a sport brake system provides extra stopping power. Optional upgrades include a sport suspension and an S sport package with dynamic all-wheel steering, a sport exhaust system, and red brake calipers. As of this writing, fuel-economy ratings are not yet available.

The S7 will get standard Valcona leather sport seats with diamond stitching for an elegant look that balances out the driver-centric, tech-focused cockpit. Optional dual-pane acoustic glass enhances the serene atmosphere.

The Audi Virtual Cockpit, a customizable driver-information display, comes standard and serves as the centerpiece of the dashboard. It’s accompanied by a dual-display infotainment system with 10.1-inch and 8.6-inch stacked touchscreens. Four-zone climate control and a Bang & Olufsen sound system also come standard.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded Good scores to the 2019 Audi A7, on which the S7 is based. Safety features include adaptive cruise control, traffic-jam assist, turn assist, side assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and vehicle-exit warning. As of this writing, Audi hasn't identified which features will be standard and which will be optional.

With the return of the S7 Sportback, Audi adds style, power, and a touch of practicality to the large luxury car segment.