“The one unforgivable sin is the low-speed binding of the all-wheel-drive system with moderate steering lock.” – Eric Tingwall
One of our long-term Audi S7 Quattro’s biggest complaint generators is, ironically enough, its Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Nearly every staffer who’s driven the S7 has noticed that, during tight maneuvers at low speeds, there is a distinct crunchiness from the front axle and an accompanying shudder through the steering wheel and body. It feels as though the rear wheels are attempting to push the fronts off their intended line, and it’s not particularly pleasant.
We first reported on the S7’s binding issue in our introduction of the car earlier this year, when we noted the dealer told us the condition was normal. Apparently, the combination of the S7’s electronically controlled limited-slip front differential and sporty tires are to blame. That might be the case, but it’s a tough pill to swallow in a nearly $90,000 luxury ride. On the upside, the S7’s Quattro setup—and the snow tires we fitted—helped us through a brutal Michigan winter without a hiccup, providing excellent traction. The Quattro can shift up to 70 percent of the engine’s torque to the front axle, and as much as 85 percent to the rear.
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