AUDI is beefing up its A7 Sportback range with the arrival of quattro all-wheel-drive for more versions of the executive fastback.

New 3.0-litre TDI quattro 204PS models can be ordered next month to coincide with a fresh Standard trim level that will be available exclusively with this engine.

It will also see the range entry price dip a fiver below 40 grand, with the new quattro just above at £41,675.

The entry level V6 TDI engine has until now been available with front-wheel-drive and the eight-speed multitronic continuously variable transmission.

In this form it powers the A7 to 62mph from rest in 7.4 seconds and on to a 146mph top speed, while at the same time offering the potential for 55.4mpg fuel economy with emissions of 135g/km.

The quattro version comes with the seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission and is slightly quicker off the mark at 7.2 seconds, matches the 146mph top speed and offers up to 48.7mpg with CO emissions of 152g/km.

Benefit-in-kind liability for business users stands at 20 per cent in front-wheel-drive versions and 23 per cent for the quattros.

The new Standard specification includes 18-inch alloy wheels, Xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lamps, Milano leather upholstery, Multi Media Interface with 6.5-inch colour display and sat-nav, Audi drive select adaptive dynamics, powered tailgate operation and light and rain sensors.  

And a new feature is a third rear three-point seatbelt which will enable the A7 Sportback to seat five adults when required and provide up to 1,390 litres of load space when the split/folding rear seat is lowered.

A two-seat sculpted rear bench is available at no extra cost on all trim grades.