I am just starting the search for my next car. I was leaning to a 550xi or 535xi but recently saw the A7 and have now added it to my list. I would likely go with a A7 Prestige but was wondering why it shows a 8-way seat vs. the Premium Plus which has a 12-way seat?

I understand that the Prestige seat is ventilated (which I would prefer) but am concerned that it seems like it has fewer adjustments? Does anyone have more details on the two seats. I really like my current BMW upgraded active ventilated seat package in my X5 which lets you adjust the side bolsters and adjust the upper seat back forward or back. Do the Audi 8-way or 12-seats do that?

The Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels all have the same 12 way power seats (except Prestige is ventilated). On the AudiUSA site it list the Prestige as 8-way with 4-way lumbar (12-way) while it lists the Premium and Premium as 12-way including 4-way lumbar (12-way). The seats DO NOT have adjustable side bolsters or the adjustable upper section of the seat; for that you'd need the comfort seats which are only optional in Europe or here A8.

I really like my current BMW upgraded active ventilated seat package in my X5 which lets you adjust the side bolsters and adjust the upper seat back forward or back. Do the Audi 8-way or 12-seats do that?

The standard seats offered in the A7 (in all trim levels) only differ in whether they have ventilation or not. The Prestige has the ventilation. These seats are nowhere near as comfortable or as adjustable as those in your current X5. The only Audis in the U.S. with fully adjustable seats are in the D3 and D4 A8/A8L's. On the other hand, if you're in Europe, you can get the "Comfort" seat option on the A7 which is fully adjustable with the option for several massage settings via the MMI. It's unknown when or if the U.S. market will have the option of ordering A7's (or A6's) with the premium seats. It's a damn shame they can't see fit to give us the same list of options (especially seating) as in Europe.

That's too bad on the seats. I will have to see if the seats are comfortable, but it's sounds like I may be disappointed.

I just test drove an A7 today with specific attention to the seating---the seats are OK and probably "good enough" for many buyers. However, I have to admit I'm spoiled by the much more adjustable and, as a result, more comfortable seats in my A8L. The big issue for me with the A7's seats is the inability to extend the front section of the bottom seat cushion for someone (like me) who has long legs. Also, there is no upper seat back articulation.

As a result of how Audi introduced the A7 with limited options for the U.S. market, I don't have much hope that the new A6 will have much seating choice, either. And this is despite it being positioned in the marketplace directly against the 5-series which has a great 18-way multi-contour seat option---this was available at introduction of the current version.

The big issue for me with the A7's seats is the inability to extend the front section of the bottom seat cushion for someone (like me) who has long legs.

I drove the A7 twice and felt the seats were too short for me (long legs also). I also felt there was poor bolstering. I like the A7 a lot but decided to not go with it this time for a few reasons. I did end up test driving a new S4 and bought that instead and picked it up this week. Very different car, but a lot more fun to drive. I prefer the sport seats in the S4 even though they don't have a lot of adjustments.

Not sure which version you sat in but there is a design difference between the ventilated and non-ventilated front seats in the A7. The ventilated versions do have a somewhat longer front section for thigh support (but no adjustment) while the non-ventilated versions don't. In fact the non-ventilated versions are styled/shaped much like the front seats in the Q5. I believe the ventilated seats are standard on the Prestige version only.

I've sat in the Prestige version and the seats are OK but not great; at least not anywhere near as good as those in the A8 or as good as they could be if the "Comfort" seats were available as in Europe.

Waiting to see if they do the same thing with the new A6. All indications so far are that Audi has decided to make the same seats (ventilated or non-ventilated) the only choices here based on the ordering guide. Can't see them making available better seats in the A6 than for its more expensive "brother" (the A7).

I got an A7 Premium Plus for 3 months now. I am 6"2' and I am having a hard time finding a comfortable position. The seats are fully adjustable bit in my opinion they lack cushioning and they are not deep and tall enough. I checked the Prestige and it seems that seats are similar except for the ventilation. I am seriously thinking of getting another car maybe less fancy but comfortable...

Do NOT buy this car for the seats. If the seats are an issue for you and you want seats like the BMW or A8, this is not the right car for you. Do NOT look at a Vette or a Porsche either. You will NOT like the seats. If you are blessed with a wide butt or very long legs..look elsewhere.

I'm still looking to see another A7 on the road. They are not for everyone.

I got an A7 Premium Plus for 3 months now. I am 6"2' and I am having a hard time finding a comfortable position. The seats are fully adjustable bit in my opinion they lack cushioning and they are not deep and tall enough. I checked the Prestige and it seems that seats are similar except for the ventilation. I am seriously thinking of getting another car maybe less fancy but comfortable...

Ditto. I really miss that from my previous cars.

I'm 6'3, 235lbs, athletic and my A7 fits me just fine...

I'm 6'3, 235lbs, athletic and my A7 fits me just fine...

I'd love to know your secret in terms of adjustments ... I'm athletic - at 6'2" I'm about 200 lbs ... but I can't find a comfortable position.

I love this car but I came from an E63 and before that an M5 and those seats were fantastic.

Chair all the way back, seat cushion all the way down in the back.... front slightly higher. Lumbar - Nil w/ the seat back varied based on the type of driving I'm doing.

I'm 5'8" and 160 lbs and I don't find the seats very comfortable either. I had the same issue in my Q5 which had very similar seats. I feel the issue is the seats are hard without much support, kind of the worst of two worlds. Not sure what Audi was thinking.

If they offer the comfort seats as an option in the 2013 MY I'm gonna be pissed.

I am 6' and 220 lbs, fairly standard build. While I don't find the A7seats outright uncomfortable, they are definitely not the best seats I ever had in a car.

The seats in my 1994 Subaru SVX fit like a glove, I don't think I will ever be able to match those.

I'm 5'8" and 160 lbs and I don't find the seats very comfortable either. I had the same issue in my Q5 which had very similar seats. I feel the issue is the seats are hard without much support, kind of the worst of two worlds. Not sure what Audi was thinking.

If they offer the comfort seats as an option in the 2013 MY I'm gonna be pissed.

The lack of the "comfort" seat option is exactly why I couldn't go with either the A7 or the new A6. The seats in the old A8 (D3) are far more comfortable, supportive, and adjustable. I just ordered a new A8 two weeks ago despite wanting to downsize. If you can't get into a comfortable seating position, it makes no sense to even consider the vehicle. The seats were the very first thing I noticed (and didn't like) about the A7 when the first one arrived and I sat in it. As attractive as the lines of the A7 are and as solid as the drivetrain is, the seats are simply underwhelming.

If you like them and can adjust to a comfortable position (or at least convince yourself!), then great.

As far as the 2013 MY goes, who knows...Audi just might "allow" the U.S. market to get the better seats. Then again, maybe not.

The standard seats offered in the A7 (in all trim levels) only differ in whether they have ventilation or not. The Prestige has the ventilation. These seats are nowhere near as comfortable or as adjustable as those in your current X5. The only Audis in the U.S. with fully adjustable seats are in the D3 and D4 A8/A8L's. On the other hand, if you're in Europe, you can get the "Comfort" seat option on the A7 which is fully adjustable with the option for several massage settings via the MMI. It's unknown when or if the U.S. market will have the option of ordering A7's (or A6's) with the premium seats. It's a damn shame they can't see fit to give us the same list of options (especially seating) as in Europe.
---------------------------------------------------
Sad that even the Prestige for $65K+ would not have a high end seat option. I would rather have multiple adjustments over ventilation. I have a 2008 BMW E61 Wagon and the Sport Seats (non ventilated) are heaven! My wife's Infiniti G35X has perforated seats that are too short, but at least you have the option of getting seats with more adjustments (and thigh extensions) in the sport package.

At this price point, you shouldn't have to option up comfortable seats. Seats adding additional adjustments is one thing but if you are spending money on a luxury car comfortable seats should be standard.

At this price point, you shouldn't have to option up comfortable seats. Seats adding additional adjustments is one thing but if you are spending money on a luxury car comfortable seats should be standard.

I second that!

If the comfort seats were offered as an option I would have paid $1,500 to 2,000 they are that good. It was going to wait for the 2013 in hopes that they would be an option but I pulled the trigger. They should at least offer an S line seat with the prestige or sport package.

Not sure which version you sat in but there is a design difference between the ventilated and non-ventilated front seats in the A7. The ventilated versions do have a somewhat longer front section for thigh support (but no adjustment) while the non-ventilated versions don't. In fact the non-ventilated versions are styled/shaped much like the front seats in the Q5. I believe the ventilated seats are standard on the Prestige version only.

I've sat in the Prestige version and the seats are OK but not great; at least not anywhere near as good as those in the A8 or as good as they could be if the "Comfort" seats were available as in Europe.

Waiting to see if they do the same thing with the new A6. All indications so far are that Audi has decided to make the same seats (ventilated or non-ventilated) the only choices here based on the ordering guide. Can't see them making available better seats in the A6 than for its more expensive "brother" (the A7).
Agree seats are okay but not the best in comparision to other models from BMW, Porsche, and Mercedes AMG. Audi can do better or at least like Porsche offer like 4 different type of seats as options in any vehicle. Then agian there's the cost..hmm. win/loss or win/win?

I got an A7 Premium Plus for 3 months now. I am 6"2' and I am having a hard time finding a comfortable position. The seats are fully adjustable bit in my opinion they lack cushioning and they are not deep and tall enough. I checked the Prestige and it seems that seats are similar except for the ventilation. I am seriously thinking of getting another car maybe less fancy but comfortable...

I too would like better seats, more side bolster and lumbar support. Have a Z4M which has very nice seats and great support for my legs with moveable thigh support as well. Much more comfortable yest but would I get another car just because of it? NO. Advice go to an Audi drivers school or your dealership and talk to them...likely they can correct your current driving position to some alternative that you find both agreeable and more comfortable. :) Felt that way in my 997 until I did a PDE/Track day with it and got a few pointers/help adjusting my driving position. Now it feels great...also upgrade to Sports Bucket seats didn't hurt! ;)

Do NOT buy this car for the seats. If the seats are an issue for you and you want seats like the BMW or A8, this is not the right car for you. Do NOT look at a Vette or a Porsche either. You will NOT like the seats. If you are blessed with a wide butt or very long legs..look elsewhere.

I'm still looking to see another A7 on the road. They are not for everyone.

Yes I don't see that many either A7's on the road. But like I said above..the car has SO many more pluses than the seats. But if seats are a priority over performance, looks, driving dynamics, etc..then by all means get a 535i or a Panamera! Afterall its your hard earned $$ and one should be happy.

I'm 5'8" and 160 lbs and I don't find the seats very comfortable either. I had the same issue in my Q5 which had very similar seats. I feel the issue is the seats are hard without much support, kind of the worst of two worlds. Not sure what Audi was thinking.

If they offer the comfort seats as an option in the 2013 MY I'm gonna be pissed.

Finally here's the option I am looking at...S7 will be released within next 12-15 months likely as a 2013 model. If its like any other German car...Porsche/BMW's then one must consider that the seat fittings are probably identical from model to model (i.e. one can take any 997 Porsche seat and retrofit it to another 997 let's say an S or a GT3) SO I am talking to a few folks (AbT and StaSiS, local independant) about taking the seats from the new S7 and transplanting them into my A7. Service adviser says that it should be doable but cost of the seats will be the deciding factor. It will likely involve removal of rear seats as well and possible swap out of the front belts depending on how the S7 seats mount. Will be cheaper [hopefully] than just getting an S7 ya know! LOL

http://www.m25audi.co.uk/audi/a7/audi-s7-interior.html

I sat in an S7 at the Chicago Auto Show on Friday. The seats in it are quite nice and have adjustable thigh bolsters. The sales rep at the show (someone I know and trust from my local Audi dealer) Said I could probably get the seats for my A7 (arrives in three weeks !) unfortunately, she fears that the price may be crazy.....:8^(

The price will probably scare you.

I had the standard "comfort" seats in my last porsche 911 (997) and hated them. I looked into buying the adaptive seats through the dealer... $8K for two seats!!

Luckily I found a guy with a GT3RS who was taking out his sport seats to put in light-weight Recaros. He sold them to me for $1000.

Not sure I like the look of the S7 seats, a bit too "space age" looking for me. They look like they belong on the bridge from something seen on "Battle Star Gallactica" than in an Audi. I know they're for a sports model but they're a bit much IMO. Don't like the quilted stitching much either.

Not sure I like the look of the S7 seats, a bit too "space age" looking for me. They look like they belong on the bridge from something seen on "Battle Star Gallactica" than in an Audi. I know they're for a sports model but they're a bit much IMO. Don't like the quilted stitching much either.

I am waiting on my A7 Prestige to arrive. I have been concerned by the seat comments on this forum and have been wondering whether I would be satisfied with the A7 Prestige seats. Therefore, I have taken every opportunity to sit in the A7 seats and each time I have been pleasantly surprised by the comfort I perceive in the A7 seats.

At the auto show, I sat in the S7 seats and found them to be very uncomfortable. The quilted stitching can be felt through your closes and feels very weird. I would definitely not trade the S7 seats for the A7 Prestige seats.

closes

I can spell...but apparently not tonight... "clothes"

I can spell...but apparently not tonight... "clothes"

You can always edit your posts, ya know? ;)

You can always edit your posts, ya know? ;)

Only if you ask for and granted edit privileges by the moderator!

Only if you ask for and granted edit privileges by the moderator!

I apparently don't have the edit privilege. I looked and looked for an edit button. I couldn't stand to have a misspelled word in my post. Sorry to waste four posts here.

...now back to talking about seats... :)

Don't sweat it. Beside mispelling on my own, my iPad takes a life on it's own & creates new words I don't mean quite often! In this day of electronics we are all un-learning how to spell I think!

After 10 months, the standard seats (non-ventilated, Premium Plus) are the one thing I really dislike about my A7. I'm a medium sized guy and sitting in the middle of the seat there's an inch or two of free space between me and the tiny side bolsters. Most any turn of the wheel has me tilting and sliding. I hate that. Deflating the lumbar support helped a bit as did setting the seat belts on Dynamic and giving them a stout tug. My dealer suggested upgrading to the S7 (or RS5).

The local Recaro dealer estimated it would be around $5K for a color-matched leather sport seat, but I'd lose the seat memory, in-dash heat controls, and there's the safety consideration of losing the air bags. At least it's an option should the S7 reach beyond my budget into the 90s.

The Prestige seats are better, but not much better.

I apparently don't have the edit privilege. I looked and looked for an edit button. I couldn't stand to have a misspelled word in my post. Sorry to waste four posts here.

...now back to talking about seats... :)

Here is the link where you can ask for edit privileges: http://forums.audiworld.com/showthread.php?t=2748703

I don't know why it is not automatic on AudiWorld, it is on every other forum I participate in.

strange... my ability to edit has always been there...

I am waiting on my A7 Prestige to arrive. I have been concerned by the seat comments on this forum and have been wondering whether I would be satisfied with the A7 Prestige seats. Therefore, I have taken every opportunity to sit in the A7 seats and each time I have been pleasantly surprised by the comfort I perceive in the A7 seats.

At the auto show, I sat in the S7 seats and found them to be very uncomfortable. The quilted stitching can be felt through your closes and feels very weird. I would definitely not trade the S7 seats for the A7 Prestige seats.

Was in exact same situation as you, having ordered a Prestige and slightly nervous about the long term feel of the seats. They felt comfortable me in my test drives, but there were some strong opinions in this thread and in others regarding how people couldn't get comfortable, kept shifting, etc.

Maybe it's because I did not own another Audi, or similar luxury car like a BMW or Mercedes so I don't have that comparison basis. But having just taken delivery this past weekend, I am pleased to say that I think the seats in the A7 are extremely comfortable and I have no issue with either having to shift positions or feel that the car is lacking in this way at all thanks to the seats.

Was in exact same situation as you, having ordered a Prestige and slightly nervous about the long term feel of the seats. They felt comfortable me in my test drives, but there were some strong opinions in this thread and in others regarding how people couldn't get comfortable, kept shifting, etc.

Maybe it's because I did not own another Audi, or similar luxury car like a BMW or Mercedes so I don't have that comparison basis. But having just taken delivery this past weekend, I am pleased to say that I think the seats in the A7 are extremely comfortable and I have no issue with either having to shift positions or feel that the car is lacking in this way at all thanks to the seats.

I have had many BMW's, Mercedes and Lexus cars including two 740IL's with articulated seats. a Merdedes S550 and a Lexus LS460 and think the seats on my A7 prestige are at least as comfortable to me as any of them. I think they are terrific. Different strokes, I guess.

BTW, perhaps it is because I like to position the seat as low as possible, but I also find the driver's left armrest to be well placed and comfortable. I know others on this forum feel the opposite is true.

I'm not crazy about the A7 seats (Prestige, ventilated). They're ok, but not great. The seats in my wife's Q7 TDI Prestige are much more comfortable. But, they are way, way better than what I had my A5 3.2 S-Line -- they were unbearable.

The Comfort Seating option on the S7 sounds nice. They won't have the diamond stitching that you see in all the early S7 photos, either. Also, according to the 2013 order guide, Comfort seats won't be available as an option on the A7.

I've had my A7 nearly a year now and I have to say it's my all-time favorite car. If I had to optimize for the last 1% my wishes would be 1) sports differential, 2) adaptive air suspension, 3) active lane assist and 4) more comfortable seats.

Well, let me add a "new wrinkle"! I let my brother (a smoker) drive my car for the day...and now I've got a cigarette burn on the driver's seat. Anyone know how easy/difficult THAT will be to fix & cost? Jeez!

Well, let me add a "new wrinkle"! I let my brother (a smoker) drive my car for the day...and now I've got a cigarette burn on the driver's seat. Anyone know how easy/difficult THAT will be to fix & cost? Jeez!

Now you have an excuse to get new seats :)

Seriously, bring it to a leather shop, they might be able to repair it, but it wouldnt be perfect.

Well, let me add a "new wrinkle"! I let my brother (a smoker) drive my car for the day...and now I've got a cigarette burn on the driver's seat. Anyone know how easy/difficult THAT will be to fix & cost? Jeez!

He did WHAT? And he is still able to sire children?

Now you have an excuse to get new seats :)

Now you have an excuse to get an S7!

Seriously, bring it to a leather shop, they might be able to repair it, but it wouldnt be perfect.

They might be able to replace a panel. That would look better than a patch.

Hey Guys try the 2004 TT seats. These A7 seats are heaven!

Sigh..I'll discuss the "burn" with the dealer when I take it in for the 5K (~600 miles to go). My brother was very upset (and of course so was I). But at the end of the day, it's just a thing right? He's still my brother and (usually) a very responsible guy. I'm going to stick a "no smoking" sign in the car. Another example of smoking is bad for your health. I now need blood pressure medication & anti-depresents.

Seats are a lot less comfortable now, I keep picking at it!

I cannot imagine someone smoking in another person's car without permission.

I dont even let people eat and drink in my car, never mine smoke.

I cannot imagine someone smoking in another person's car without permission.

Me either. I did not even think I had to tell him "don't".

Sigh..I'll discuss the "burn" with the dealer when I take it in for the 5K (~600 miles to go). My brother was very upset (and of course so was I). But at the end of the day, it's just a thing right? He's still my brother and (usually) a very responsible guy. I'm going to stick a "no smoking" sign in the car. Another example of smoking is bad for your health. I now need blood pressure medication & anti-depresents.

Seats are a lot less comfortable now, I keep picking at it!

Maybe tell him that if he wants to make it up to you, quit smoking all together. :)

I'm also very disappointed with the lack of thigh support in the A7 seats. Please send Audi of America customer feedback center an email explaining that you passed up the A7 because of the lack of a comfort seat option. Here is the link:

https://secure-www.audi.com/us/brand/en/tools/form/audicare.formlayer.html

I have also been "waiting" for the comfort seat issue to be settled before purchasing an A7. I just noticed in the 2013 A7 brochure that the comfort seat is standard on the 2013 Prestige version. Can anybody confirm this?
thanks.

I have also been "waiting" for the comfort seat issue to be settled before purchasing an A7. I just noticed in the 2013 A7 brochure that the comfort seat is standard on the 2013 Prestige version. Can anybody confirm this?
thanks.

The comfort seat is the standard seat with a perforated seating surface and a fan inside.

The comfort seat is the standard seat with a perforated seating surface and a fan inside.

Correct, these are not the 20 way adjustable comfort seats that are available as an option in the S7 or the A8. Just a slightly upgraded standard A7 seat to those found in the Premium and Premium Plus A7 models. Still not a particularly comfortable seat IMO.

If you want the "true" comfort seats you'll need to move up to an S7 with these added as an option. I think it's something like $1650.

When I was ordering my 2013 A6 (same seats as the A7), I did a comparison by going back and forth between the standard and Prestige seats. I did find the Prestige seats to be more comfortable - I attribute this to the longer thigh bolster and the perforated seat and back surfaces which seemed softer to me. The appearance is also improved with the extra stitching along with the subtle advantage of the ventilation feature.

So far, no issues for me or my wife with the seats on long trips - they're a bit better than my wife's 2002 allroad and more comfortable than my former 2009 A4 non-sport.