Overview: 2023 Audi e-tron / e-tron Sportback

One of the standout features of the Audi e-tron and e-tron Sportback is their ability to blend in with traditional luxury SUVs, despite being fully electric. With an all-wheel-drive powertrain generating 355 horsepower and an EPA-estimated range of up to 222 miles (218 miles for the Sportback), these models offer impressive performance. In Sport mode, the e-tron can even produce a momentary burst of 402 horsepower. Unlike some other electric SUVs, such as the Tesla Model X or Ford Mustang Mach-E, the e-tron boasts a classic grille on its front bumper, along with stylish wheels and LED head- and taillights. The e-tron also features a 150-kW fast-charger, allowing for up to 80% battery recharge in just 30 minutes. In addition, the frunk provides convenient storage for adapters, cables, and small items. While the e-tron prioritizes comfort and familiarity over maximum driving range, the result is a luxurious driving experience that isn't overly flashy.

Price and Variants: 2023 Audi e-tron / e-tron Sportback

Audi has made some minor updates to its e-tron and e-tron Sportback trims for the 2023 model year. The base Sportback SUV now comes with a black headliner as standard. The e-tron Sportback Prestige trims have received several new standard features, including 22-inch five-spoke wheels, orange front and rear brake calipers, rear side airbags, Audi’s Matrix-design headlights, and the Black Optic exterior package. Additionally, both the e-tron S and e-tron Sportback S now come with carbon square inlays and the LED interior lighting package as standard, while the Prestige trim levels of these SUVs have been updated to include Audi’s Matrix-design headlights. The pricing for the 2023 e-tron and e-tron Sportback trims are as follows:

• Premium: $71,995
• Sportback Premium: $75,195
• Premium Plus: $78,995
• Sportback Premium Plus: $82,195
• Chronos Edition: $87,595
• Sportback Prestige: $90,495

If you're looking for a great value, we recommend the entry-level Premium trim paired with the sleeker Sportback body style. This combination comes with luxurious standard features such as 20-inch wheels, blind-spot monitoring, heated front seats, four-zone climate control, leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof. We suggest adding the Convenience Plus package to get even more desirable features like black exterior trim, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a 360-degree camera system. Additionally, if you plan on towing, we recommend adding the Tow package, which allows you to take advantage of the e-tron's 4000-pound towing capacity.

Power and Performance: 2023 Audi e-tron / e-tron Sportback

The e-tron SUV utilizes two electric motors, with one positioned at the front axle and the other at the rear. The electronic all-wheel drive is primarily driven by the rear motor, providing a combined 355 horsepower and 414 pound-feet of torque for regular driving conditions. When the transmission is shifted into Sport mode, the e-tron briefly unlocks an impressive 402 horsepower and 490 pound-feet of torque. Our driving experience revealed that the e-tron offers quick acceleration and a composed ride, typical of electric vehicles. Its luxury feel is enhanced by the smooth and quiet ride quality. The stopping system blends traditional brakes with regenerative braking, providing expert control. However, we found that the regenerative braking wasn't aggressive enough for one-pedal driving in our test of the Sportback model. Despite being an electric vehicle, the e-tron offers traditional SUV characteristics, with a towing capacity of up to 4000 pounds. The e-tron S and e-tron Sportback S models boast triple motors, boosting their output to 496 horsepower and 718 pound-feet of torque. Audi estimates that these models can reach 60 mph a full second sooner than the non-S e-trons, although we have not tested this claim yet.

Range, Charging and Battery: 2023 Audi e-tron / e-tron Sportback

 

Interior: 2023 Audi e-tron / e-tron Sportback

The e-tron is an exceptional vehicle, not only because of its electric powertrain but also because of its modern and pragmatic cabin. The dashboard is filled with a multitude of high-definition screens, including Audi's Virtual Cockpit, and two sleek touchscreens in the center. The e-tron's upscale interior also includes luxurious options like a head-up display and front seats with massage capabilities. Furthermore, the battery pack is seamlessly integrated into the underfloor, which creates a level surface that contributes to the e-tron's refined design. This also allows for a spacious cargo area, with 29 cubic feet of storage space behind the back row and 57 cubic feet with the seatbacks folded flat in the regular e-tron. While the Sportback's sloping roofline reduces both measurements by 2 cubic feet, it still accommodates seven carry-on suitcases behind the rear seats, which is one less than the regular e-tron.

Infotainment and Connectivity: 2023 Audi e-tron / e-tron Sportback

The e-tron's connectivity and entertainment features are delivered through a pair of touchscreens that occupy the center console. The top display, which measures 10.1 inches, grants access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system. The lower 8.8-inch screen is primarily dedicated to adjusting the climate control settings. Additionally, the system boasts multiple charging ports and an optional wireless smartphone charger, while a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot ensures uninterrupted connectivity on the go.

Safety and Warranty: 2023 Audi e-tron / e-tron Sportback

When it comes to safety and driver-assistance technology, the Audi e-tron SUV and e-tron Sportback models have got you covered. Equipped with a variety of standard safety features, these vehicles have earned a high safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Some of the safety features that come standard with these vehicles include forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-departure warning. Additionally, these vehicles are available with adaptive cruise control and self-parking assist, making your driving experience even safer and more convenient. If you're curious about the e-tron models' crash-test results, you can visit the NHTSA and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites for more information. While Audi's limited and powertrain warranties are competitive, they are not particularly exceptional. The limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles, while the powertrain warranty covers the same. However, electrical components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles. It's worth noting that there is no complimentary scheduled maintenance included with these warranties.