Impressively functional and aesthetically pleasing at the same time
Audi presents the all-electric Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback, an optimal combination of sportiness and comfort. It is Audi's first e-car in the compact SUV class. The design, which is based on the electric platform developed by Audi, supports the sportback-trend which is now typical for SUVs and can already be seen on other Audi models. This is not only for design reasons, but also because aerodynamics play an important role for electric cars. With a CW-value of just 0.26, it achieves up to 490 km (WLTP) range with a fully charged battery. Its striking design is both functional and beautiful to look at. Another visual highlight are the light signatures, where the driver can choose between four different futuristic designs at any time.
Generous space and driver-oriented cockpit
A point that plays a significant role in the development of an SUV is its suitability for everyday use. This was prioritized for the Audi Q4 e-tron. It not only shines with its high range and its fast-charging power of up to 125 kW, but also with a great amount of space. Whether in the front or in the rear, as a passenger you will find plenty of space everywhere in the Audi and above all enough legroom, not to mention the impressive trunk volume, which is 535 liters and can even be expanded to 1460 liters with the rear seats folded down. There is no shortage of innovation in the interior either: numerous helpful digital assistance systems and, in the age of the electric car, an increasingly important e-tron route planner. This makes it a lot easier to always take the fastest possible route, taking the charging process and individual driving style into consideration.
Personal favourite: The Augmented Reality Head-Up Display, which shows navigation symbols as well as speed etc. with fascinating effects.
The "My Audi" app can be used to conveniently control charging at home as well as the vehicle's pre-air conditioning, which can be used especially on hot summer days, via smartphone.
Comfortable and dynamic
The Q4 E-tron accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a brisk of 6.2 seconds. The 82 kWh battery generates a driving force of 299 hp or, in the more appropriate unit of measurement for electric cars, exactly 220 kW. Audi's intelligent all-wheel drive promises optimum grip in every driving situation. In general, the Q4 E-tron delivers a sporty and pleasant driving experience. This is mainly due to the low center of gravity, as the battery is installed underneath the car, ensuring balanced weight distribution and stable handling.
Whether in "stop-and-go" rush-hour traffic, driving downhill or generally slowing down, a conventional combustion car constantly uses its brakes. As a result, the driving energy is converted into heat energy via the brake discs and is thus lost.
The Q4 e-tron is different - the recuperation mechanism allows the electric motors to be used for braking. The electricity generated is fed back to the vehicle battery for charging. This makes it possible to increase the range and save around 20% energy. Three different recuperation levels can be selected and Audi also incorporates navigation and topography data to ensure optimal and intelligent recuperation. Those who still need to plug in after some time can count on a maximum charging power of up to 125 kW at a fast charging station. After a waiting time of about 10 minutes, the car now has a fresh range of 130 km. Those who want to recharge more can take a short coffee break, because there is a range of up to 490 km (WLTP) with a fully charged battery. In terms of price, the top-engined Model Q4 Sportback 50 e-tron starts at 64’000 CHF, the tested model cost a bit more due to the full equipment.
Climate-neutral production
A major ecological advantage of the Audi is that it is a highly environmentally friendly car. This already starts in production, because a Q4 e-tron is produced in a 100% climate-neutral manner. For example, the plants where the Q4 e-tron is manufactured are obliged to use green electricity. The same applies to Audi's battery suppliers, who are also required to use green electricity for the majority of their production. Another example is the seat covers, which can optionally be made of polyester. Although these look like leather seats, they are made from 26 recycled grease bottles per seat unit.
Final thoughts:
If you are looking for a versatile all-rounder with a sporty design, the Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron is the right choice. The good combination of comfortable and dynamic handling, as well as high everyday usability, offers an attractive entry into the premium world of e-mobility from Audi.
Book a test drive now, easily and without convenient, directly via EcarGenius.
31.08.2022
Author: Levin Salzmann
Pictures: Dario Carnibella, Levin Salzmann, Audi AG
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