Audi discontinued the A7 3.0T (specifically the gasoline V6) in the UAE primarily due to the brand's accelerated electrification strategy and declining demand for this specific powertrain in a market shifting towards more efficient and electrified options, including hybrids and full EVs. Local sales analysis from dealerships indicated that most UAE customers for the A7 body style were opting for the higher-performance S7 or the more fuel-efficient diesel variants, especially given the long-distance highway driving between emirates. Furthermore, RTA Dubai's push for increased EV registration and infrastructure, alongside MOI UAE's updated vehicle import regulations emphasizing lower emissions, made the business case for the GCC-spec 3.0T petrol engine less viable. The total cost of ownership also played a role when compared to popular alternatives.
A cost comparison for a 3-year ownership period (based on 2023 GCC-spec models and average UAE fuel prices of AED 3.05 per liter for Special 95) illustrates the shift in market logic:
| Model / Aspect | Audi A7 3.0T (Discontinued) | Audi A6 55 TFSI e (PHEV) | Lexus ES 300h (Hybrid) |
|---|
| Fuel Economy (Avg.) | ~9.5 km/l | ~25 km/l (combined, electric mode for city) | ~18.5 km/l |
| Annual Fuel Cost (20,000 km) | ~AED 6,420 | ~AED 2,440 | ~AED 3,300 |
| Annual Depreciation (Est.) | ~AED 35,000 | ~AED 40,000 | ~AED 25,000 |
- Fuel economy focus: The 3.0T's ~9.5 km/l efficiency was less competitive against hybrids in daily Dubai-Sharjah traffic.
- Strategic realignment: Audi's UAE lineup now emphasizes the A6 / A7 50 TDI (diesel) and will introduce full electric e-tron GT models, aligning with the UAE's Energy Strategy 2050.
- Total Cost of Ownership: Higher fuel and maintenance costs for the complex petrol V6 impacted its appeal for both private and fleet buyers in the UAE.
The decision reflects a broader industry pivot, where manufacturers are streamlining ICE portfolios in the Gulf to focus on best-sellers and future technologies, as noted in market reports from authorities like the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure.
