Audi launched its most affordable EVs to date, the Q4 e-tron and Q4 Sportback e-tron crossovers, both based on the VW ID.4.
The Q4 e-tron is the German manufacturer’s first EV on VW’s MEB platform. More specifically, it sits on the same platform as the VW ID.4 and the Skoda Enyaq iV. The model is available in two configurations: the usual compact-SUV style and a Sportback version with coupe-like aerodynamic styling.
Compact Dimensions, But a Very Spacious Interior
The Q4 e-tron measures 4,588mm long, 1,865mm wide, and 1,632mm high, placing it right between the Q3 and Q5 in Audi’s lineup. Much of the car is the same as the concept that Audi revealed in 2019’s Geneva Motor Show, and the Q4 e-tron and its Sportback variant certainly show off the revolutionary electric design.
With Volkswagen’s MEB platform, Audi was able to provide a very spacious interior, thanks to the battery pack placement under the floor. Audi says the interior space offered by the Q4 e-tron nearly matches its higher-end SUVs.
Inside the Q4 e-tron, Audi has fitted a standard 10.25-inch instrument panel and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment display, with options to upgrade to Audi’s flagship 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit system and a new 11.6-inch MMI plus touchscreen.
The Q4 e-tron is Packed With Hi-Tech Features
Also making its debut on the Q4 e-tron is Audi’s new augmented reality heads-up display which shows vital information and navigation directions projected onto the road using a depth effect.
Moreover, extensive driver assists and collision avoidance systems are in place, along with a predictive efficiency assistant that checks the navigations and traffic signs to use battery power most efficiently.
The Q4 e-tron also brings in a new lighting feature that allows the driver to change between four different light signatures for the digital LED headlights.
Multiple Battery Packs and Powertrains on Offer
The Q4 e-tron and the Sportback come with various battery sizes and motor outputs. The Q4 e-tron 35 is the entry-level model, packing a 52-kWh battery pack powering a single motor on the rear axle that produces 168 HP and 310Nm of torque. The range is rather unimpressive 212-miles under the WLTP cycle. The Sportback variant extends the range by 5 miles thanks to better aerodynamics.
Next comes the mid-range Q4 e-tron 40 and its Sportback version with a 77-kWh battery and a powerful rear motor producing 201 HP and 310Nm of torque. This model manages 323-miles on the WLTP cycle, the highest in the Q4 e-tron lineup.
The highest-end variant is the Q4 e-tron 50 Quattro, featuring an all-wheel-drive system with two powerful motors on both axles. It uses the same 77-kWh battery as the ‘40,’ but the extra motor increases output to 295 HP and 460 Nm of torque. It has the quickest 0-60mph time at 6.2 seconds with a top speed of 112 mph and a range of 303 miles.
Both the 40 and 50 Quattro come with an 11kW AC home charging capability and a CCS rapid charging rate of 125kW.
Pricing Details
Audi still hasn’t confirmed US pricing details, only that it would go on sale in June. Also, American buyers might receive free charging from VW’s Electrify America network.
In Germany, the Q4 e-tron 35 starts at €41,900, the Q4 e-tron 40 is priced from €47,500, and the 50 Quattro will cost €52,900. All Sportback versions will add €2,000 to the SUV pricing.
Gallery (Q4 e-tron)
Gallery (Q4 Sportback e-tron)
