Over time, Audi has been expanding its e-tron electric vehicle range, starting from the unremarkable A3 plug-in hybrid. The brand has since introduced more impactful electric vehicles, such as the Q8 e-tron (previously known as the e-tron SUV) and the e-tron GT. While these models come with high price tags, Audi has now unveiled a more accessible electric vehicle – the 2022 Q4 e-tron electric SUV.
The Q4 e-tron is positioned between the Q3 and Q5 in Audi’s SUV lineup. Despite its stylish appearance, this vehicle shares the same platform as the Volkswagen ID.4 and maintains a 108.7-inch wheelbase similar to its counterpart. What sets the Q4 e-tron apart is the availability of two body styles – the standard Q4 e-tron and the more streamlined Q4 e-tron Sportback.
For its initial release, the Q4 50 e-tron features a dual motor powertrain delivering 295 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. It boasts a maximum driving range of 241 miles on a single charge. In the 2023 model year, the Q4 40 e-tron will be offered with a single 210 hp electric motor powering the rear wheels, with a range of 265 miles.
Despite offering less than 300 miles of range, the Q4 e-tron’s driving capabilities may be disappointing, considering that most new electric vehicles exceed 300 miles of range. Charging the Q4 e-tron is relatively straightforward, as it supports fast charging up to 150-kW, enabling a charge from 5 to 80 percent in just 36 minutes.
Performance-wise, the Q4 e-tron is a capable electric vehicle, although it may lack an overly thrilling driving experience. While acceleration from a standstill is impressive, the power diminishes at higher speeds. The Q4 40 e-tron takes 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph and has a top speed of 99 mph. In comparison, the more powerful Q4 50 e-tron can accelerate to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The suspension of the Q4 e-tron ensures a comfortable ride, favoring comfort over a sportier driving experience.
Regenerative braking plays a vital role in replenishing the battery, with some electric vehicles offering significant levels of braking force that can bring the vehicle to a stop once the accelerator pedal is released. However, the Q4 e-tron falls short in this aspect. While it provides various regenerative braking levels accessible via paddle shifters on the steering wheel, the desired setting resets to default when the throttle is engaged unless driven in “B” mode, forcing the highest regenerative mode.
Inside, the Q4 e-tron’s interior outshines the ID.4 with a more appealing design. The driver is greeted by a standard 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster, with higher trims featuring Audi’s Virtual Cockpit. The center console houses a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the dashboard design is visually striking compared to the ID.4, certain materials fall short of Audi’s usual quality standards.
Opting for the Sportback variant may result in a slight reduction in rear headroom by 1.3 inches and a decrease in rear legroom by 1.1 inches, offering up to 54.4 cubic feet of cargo space.
Regarding safety, the Q4 e-tron provides essential features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic braking, and parking sensors. The Premium Plus trim level includes adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist and matrix LED headlights, while the Prestige trim level adds an augmented reality head-up display.
The price of the 2022 Q4 50 e-tron starts at $50,995, while the Q4 Sportback 50 e-tron is priced from $53,795.
In conclusion, the Q4 e-tron marks a solid addition to the ever-growing electric vehicle market. It represents a comfortable electric SUV with an appealing exterior and capable powertrain. Although a longer driving range and a more exhilarating driving experience would have been welcomed, the Q4 e-tron remains an attractive option for consumers seeking a luxurious yet accessible electric SUV.
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