Automobile Magazine just announced that they've picked the Audi A7 as its 2012 Automobile of the Year, saying:

"...the A7 snuck up on us. It looks good in pictures, but it is much more striking in person. The front visage is both sleek and imposing; in the side view, the car appears elongated, as if tapered by the wind. Move around to the rear, and the A7 is simply captivating. Who ever thought a hatchback could be so sexy? The seduction was underway."

See the full press release on the 23rd year of their semi-coveted prize here.