A car like the Audi A7->ke1687 is one of those models that's ripe for an aftermarket project. The timing's right, too, because the 2012 SEMA Auto Show->ke216 has just opened its doors. Noted aftermarket company H&R Springs is a fixture at SEMA, and this year, they're bringing along a number of project cars, including the A7 four-door luxury sports car.

Building impressive car projects is something the H&R Springs has made a habit of. It's no different with this A7 after the tuning firm did the work to turn it into a bonafide, custom-tuned luxury sports sedan.

Best be advised, though. If you're expecting something over-the-top, this model is far from it. But where it lacks in eye-popping design, it sure makes up for in improved performance and strengthened handling characteristics.

At the end of the day, those things are what's important for H&R Springs. Leave the fancy at the door and bring the practicality out.

Find out more about H&R Springs' program for the Audi A7 after the jump.

2013 Audi A7 by H&R Springs

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 Audi A7 by H&R Springs
  • Engine/Motor: V6
  • Horsepower: 310
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior and Interior

On the outside, the A7 gets treated to an Audi S-Line exterior package, which comes with a number of new components, including a new front bumper and spoiler, a rear end with a diffuser, redesigned side sills, and chrome exhaust tips that are also fitted at the rear. Sticky Jewel graphics bearing the H&R Springs logo have been plastered in various parts of the A7, as have Meguiar's Car Care products. Inside, there's not much of a change as the only thing worth mentioning are the new WeatherTech floor liners on the front and rear of the car.

Performance

Thanks to the new AWE Tuning A7 exhaust system with polished silver tips that have been installed, the Audi A7 saw an increase of 12 horsepower from the standard model's output. Take that into consideration and the 3.0-liter TFSI V6 engine that used to pack 296 horsepower now has around 310 horsepower to play with. It may not sound all that much for a car of the A7's stature, but it's still a welcome upgrade nevertheless.

Chassis and Suspension

Where the A7 separates itself lies in the modifications H&R Springs did themselves, particularly with the installation of their own Street Performance Coil Over suspension, netting the A7 with a lowered chassis of 1.15” in the front and 1.35” in the rear. This gives the luxury sedan that pronounced stance that belies the kind of powerful and luxurious characteristics it has as Audi's resident super saloon.

Wheels and Brakes

H&R Springs fitted the Audi A7 with a new set of 21" Audi 5-arm rotor design wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires. An imposing brake package from Brembo with 15” cross drilled rotors and 6-piston Monobloc front calipers have also been installed. All of this is then finished off by H&R 18mm Trak+ Wheel Spacers on the front and rear, fine tuning the tires and wheel gaps to give the A7 that distinctive "Go Wide" stance.