Audi just announced another entrant to its electrified stable, the somewhat affordable Q4 e-tron!
The German automaker has kept its hands full with EVs for quite some time now, in line with its goals to offer a majorly electric lineup by 2030 and net carbon neutrality by 2050. But not content with the already impressive e-tron family, Audi adds the Q4 to the lineup, a much more affordable compact crossover aimed at the Tesla Model Y and VW ID.4.
The Q4 e-tron will be sold in two different avatars: a crossover and a Sportback variant, with a coupe-like roofline. Still, both will receive Audi’s signature design language comprised of a wide-mouthed grille featuring the carmaker’s 4-ringed emblem, contrasted by all-LED (or optional Matrix LEDs) headlamps and a front bumper with vents on the bottom and either side (while the vents are functional on the gas-powered version, they only serve as a design element on the EV counterparts).
Interestingly, despite sharing the same initials as its petrol sibling, the Q4 e-tron is actually based on an all-new platform that is 4″ longer (to accommodate the battery pack). The crossover will be offered in three variants (30, 40, and 50), although the US will receive only the 40 and 50 models. Both are equipped with an 82 kWh energy cell (77 kWh usable) with an EPA range estimate of 241 miles each.
Propulsion is provided by a single rear-only electric motor producing 201 hp and 226 lb-ft of torque on the 40, while the top-end 50 drives all four wheels with a dual-motor configuration churning out a much healthier 295 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque. Furthermore, it is equipped with regenerative braking allowing the battery to recuperate up to 145 kW of energy.
As for the interior, Audi went for all-black/grey surfaces and panels throughout, and customers have the option to choose between leather or sustainably developed seating surfaces made from recycled PET bottles. All the quirks and features of the e-tron were segregated into package trims such as the premium, convenience, technology, and S-line. Standard equipment on offer includes a 10.25-inch virtual cockpit display, 11-inch MMI with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, 8-way power-adjustable front seats plus 4-way power lumbar support, heated seats, panoramic sunroof, and ambient lighting.
Opting for the convenience or technology packages gives access to seats with memory function, power-folding outer and inner mirrors, an anti-theft alarm system, the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus, MMI Navigation Plus, augmented reality enabled HUD, and a premium SONOS sound system. Worth mentioning that it is also equipped with ADAS like Audi pre sense, Audi side assist with rear cross-traffic assist, and lane departure warnings. The advanced variants receive adaptive cruise control, and active lane assist with emergency functions.
Last but not least, Audi collaborated with Electrify America to get access to a rapidly growing network of DC chargers (3,500 units and counting). Additionally, once purchased, EA waives off the first 250kW (125 kW in the e-tron’s case) for the first two years of ownership.
The Audi Q4 e-tron starts at $43,900 for the entry-level 40 and goes up to $49,500 for the 50. The 50 Sportback, on the other hand, will set you back $52,700.
Bring on the e-crossover wars!
