For 2012, Audi, the brand whose signature LED daytime running lights set a whole new standard of elegance in the auto industry, has knocked it out the box with the an all new design: The A7. Somewhat reminiscent of Jaguar’s $52,500 XF, in terms of style and BMW’s $56,500 550 GT including performance, Audi defines its five door sports coupe as iconic thanks to its design lines.

Check out the dynamic line running from the visually stunning singleframe grill, along the sides and through to the tail. It reminds me of what it’s like to work out diligently (cardio and weights) all year long before presenting your body in the hottest swimwear of the season. Next, the roofline brings it down and tightens it up in terms of overall shape. Finally, the shoulder, or tornado line is what sets it off and turns heads from every angle, leaving onlookers with just one word: “Damn!”

Altogether, the look of A7 says powerful, elegant and chic thanks to strong, long lines (195.6” in total) and a wide (84.2”), low (55.9”) stance. And the way designers cut off the rear, it’s just plain ole nasty, especially when you add the optional set of 20” rims included with the 20” Sport Package ($1,500).

In all three available trim levels (Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige), A7 comes with just one engine: A supercharged, direct injection, 3.0 liter, 310 horsepower engine. That’s 325 lb-ft of torque for a top speed of 130 miles per hour, achieving 0-60 in 5.4 seconds. Particularly impressive is the V8 power this V6 delivers at take off, or when suddenly called upon on the freeway when maneuvering through traffic. All of that with a fuel economy of 18 miles per gallon in the city and 28 on the highway thanks in part to its eight speed automatic transmission.

In terms of handling, it’s an Audi. Enough said? To most, that’s a prerequisite to a whip that handles. And the A7 is in no way a let down. In fact, the word precision would sort of sum it all up in term of the ability to maneuver through tight spots with the feeling of complete control and a great turning radius. Two things come to mind: Variable boost power steering and Audi’s legendary Quattro—all wheel drive system that appropriately distribute power between the front and rear wheels, all four of which have independent suspension.

While technological advancements in the A7 have the ability to think and act to the advantage of the driver, Drive Select Control places the decision in the fingers of the driver. With those fingers, choose “Comfort” for a cushy ride, or set it off in “Dynamic” driving mode. Feel the wheel stiffen and the power of the throttle all in an instant. Then again, automatic mode will give you exactly what you need, as needed.

The interior design of A7 is equally as chic, including a strategically situated seven-inch monitor that slides up and down automatically. Choices for the wrap around cockpit design includes toned down, naturally beautiful, fine grain ash natural wood inlays along the dash, doors and center console. Aside from all other accoutrements we’ve come to expect in a German luxury vehicle, A7’s MMI touch pad makes it possible to enter navigation and telephone information via handwriting recognition—an industry first for Audi. Love is what I have for the Google Earth navigation offering a very “real” look at where you are on the monitor. But here’s where they got me: A7 is a hot spot! Hit the MMI wheel to get the password and up to 8-devices can connect wirelessly.

Yeah, A7 is definitely the new pack leader in its class!