Overview: 2022 Audi Q4 e-tron
The recently introduced Q4 e-tron is a smaller version of the mid-size Audi e-tron SUV that has been available since 2019. Despite its smaller size, the Q4 maintains the signature Audi design, with a hex-shaped grille that is now closed off to cater to reduced cooling requirements. The body features sharp creases and a light bar that connects the taillights, which is another distinctive feature of Audi cars. The Q4 is offered in both standard and sportback body styles, just like the larger e-tron and the gas-powered Q5.
The Q4 e-tron sits on a 108.7-inch wheelbase and measures 180.7 inches in length and 73.4 inches in width, placing it between the conventionally powered Q3 and Q5 SUVs in terms of size. Interestingly, the Q4 e-tron is the same size as its platform-mate, the Volkswagen ID.4. Additionally, the Q4 features matrix LED headlights that offer four different light signatures for the daytime running lights, a new feature in the Audi lineup.
Price and Variants: 2022 Audi Q4 e-tron
The 2023 Q4 model will now be available in a single-motor variant, which will be priced at $49,995. For those interested in a more powerful option, the dual-motor variants are available and can be optioned for the mid $60,000's. The XC40 Recharge, while more powerful, has a lesser range compared to the Q4, but is in the same price range. On the other hand, the Tesla Model Y has a longer range but is considerably more expensive.
In comparison to its VW counterpart, the Q4 is only slightly more expensive but has superior design and driver interface. Though not necessarily groundbreaking, the Q4 may be a suitable option for those in the market for a premium SUV.
Power and Performance: 2022 Audi Q4 e-tron
Taking the Q4 e-tron for a spin, we immediately notice how quiet the dual-motor Sportback is. Unlike some other EVs, there's no spacey whirring noise emitting from the drivetrain. While the Q4 does accelerate quickly off the line, it's not quite as neck-snapping as some other electric vehicles on the market. As speed builds, the car's response becomes less lively, and it takes a bit longer to gather speed for a two-lane pass at 55 mph. Compared to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Kia EV6 GT-Line, which pack more horsepower and can hit 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, the Q4's 5.4-second 60-mph sprint may seem a bit lackluster.
Unlike some EVs that offer one-pedal driving, Audi has opted not to include this feature, believing that most drivers find it hard to use smoothly. Instead, drivers can use the steering-wheel paddles to cycle through four levels of regenerative braking. However, even with the highest level of regen selected, the driver still needs to step on the brake pedal to bring the Q4 to a stop. Audi claims that higher levels of regen are less efficient than letting the car optimize between coasting and regen based on sensors and nav data.
While the amount of accelerator lift-off regen may not matter to most drivers, it's worth noting that we preferred the higher level of regen because the Q4's brake-pedal action is not very satisfying. There's a lot of pedal travel, which makes modulation a bit of a challenge.
The Q4's suspension uses passive dampers with struts up front and a multilink rear setup. The tuning is taut, but the ride remains comfortable and not overly firm, at least on the gentle pavement of greater San Diego. However, the Q4 does feel a bit heavy when taken through curves, and the steering, while decently weighted, feels somewhat artificial. The Q4's tight turning radius and high maneuverability make it a breeze to handle, though it's not quite as engaging to drive as some of its competitors.
Range, Charging and Battery: 2022 Audi Q4 e-tron
The Q4 e-tron, an all-wheel-drive SUV, is capable of achieving a range of 241 miles according to the EPA for the 2022 model year. For the 2023 version, the EPA has yet to approve the figures, but the estimates are 236 miles for the SUV body style and 242 miles for the Sportback. While these numbers fall slightly short of the EV6's 274 miles, they are better than the Volvo XC40 Recharge's 223 miles.
If you opt for the 2023 single-motor model, you can expect a longer range of 265 miles. However, it's worth noting that the Ioniq 5 and EV6, which are of similar size, offer much more range at 303 and 310 miles, respectively.
Unfortunately, the MEB platform isn't capable of handling as high of a recharging rate as the Hyundai/Kia. The Q4 is capable of DC fast-charging up to 125 kW, which takes the battery from a 5- to 80-percent charge in 36 minutes. The included charge cord comes with pigtails for both 240v and 120V outlets, and Q4 buyers are gifted 250 kWh of charging on the Electrify America network, thanks to the VW Group's significant investment in the network.
The 2022 Q4 e-tron was delayed in arriving at dealerships, only making its debut in the summer. The 2023 model is set to replace it, with the addition of the Q4 e-tron 40 single-motor variant and a slightly larger MMI screen for all Q4s. The S Line appearance package now comes standard on dual-motor models, and navigation is included with the Premium Plus package, with no significant changes to feature content.
Interior: 2022 Audi Q4 e-tron